music
HIGHLIGHTING
MARVIN THOMPSON JR.
Keyboardist, songwriter and producer Marvin Thompson Jr. has been creating music for many years. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan he got his start playing piano for his church choir. Writing music for numerous musicals and short films, Marvin has also released several instrumental projects, including his release, In Focus on the December Sky music label, which features jazz-infused instrumental music. Images: Asia Hamilton | www.asiahamilton.photography
Thompson is the recipient of the Billboard Songwriting Award and the John Lennon Songwriting Award. In 2017 Marvin released his second full-length CD titled Kind Words. This project embodies Marvin's taste and commitment to smooth jazz, with honest melodies and creative musical structures. Marvin was recently featured on the television show, Detroit Performs.
By Olivia Ewing | Entertainment Editor & Marvin Thompson Jr. | Contributing Writer
As we finish celebrating Black Music Month, Haute Is Online takes a moment to highlight recording artist and music producer Marvin Thompson Jr.
Get out into the world, see yourself flying high...these lyrics, taken from his song Picture Window from his 2017 release Kind Words, speak to the thought process of this Detroit native. A west side kid of the 70’s and 80’s, Marvin’s musical fingerprint drips with the ink of gospel, jazz, soul and beyond. Unassuming yet unintimidated at the piano, he walks the line between improvisationalist and disciplinarian, each note having a place, every chord slowly guiding the listener along. Marvin is the recipient of the John Lennon Songwriting Award and the Billboard Songwriting Award, a nod to his commitment to always reach for musical greatness.
To hear Marvin’s smooth eloquent sounds click below
Thompson has served as Musical Director for several stage-plays, including Torn Between Two Loves, and the Plowshares Theatre production of Soulfest and Spunk. He wrote and scored the music for the independent film, Guilty Innocence for the Swift Winds Media production company. He's the writer and producer of the hit stage musical, City Square which premiered in Detroit MI. Marvin wrote and produced the musical stage play, Two Chairs, an historically reflective stage presentation that opened in Detroit in 2016.
““I’ve always loved creating music, and I often ask myself: how do I say something musically that hasn’t already been said?” ”
Marvin has long realized the therapeutic nature that music can have, and during this time of social distancing he’s hosted online piano sets, where he performs original jazz compositions, hymns and popular songs. His latest release, When They Call, is a concept album highlighting songs Marvin penned for use in film and television. Atmospheric and sparse in its mood, the album takes the listener on a cinematic journey of joy, sorrow and anticipation. The single, Sleep Wake Run blends wide pianos and voice pads to form a synthesis of melody and movement.
“I’ve always loved creating music, and I often ask myself: how do I say something musically that hasn’t already been said?” Not unlike most creative minds, Marvin is on a constant search for new colors within the palette. “In those times I take a breath, look around, and inspiration finds me.”
As you reflect this month and all year long, on all of your favorite Black music artists, be sure to add Marvin Thompson Jr. to your playlist, and after exploring his catalog I know you’ll feel the soul, honesty, and energy behind the music. Lend him your ear, and I promise you’ll be ready to get out into the world. And fly high.
Want to know more about Marvin? Go to marvinthompsonjr.com. Experience his music on iTunes, Spotify and all streaming platforms.
Twitter: @mthompsonjr
Instagram: @mthompsonjr
Facebook: Marvin Thompson Jr.