We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
Consistency and a desire for more. Mediocrity has never been something that’s been in my line of sight and I continue to be more, do more, desire more, continuing to stay humble no matter the positive or negative opportunities that come my way. I take every situation that is given and, to the best of my abilities, conquer them, adapt to them, and know that I’m stronger when it’s all said and done.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an artist, it can definitely pose many challenges due to the ever-striving desire to rise to the top. One thing that sets me apart from most artists is that I don’t do it for fame. I don’t do it for some national recognition. I do it because it’s what I love. I enjoy making music from the beginning to the end, seeing the entire process all the way through and really being able to recognize that this is a piece of art. Starts with nothing more than an idea and brightened into an amazing piece of work to be enjoyed not only by its creator, but also others that are impacted by the creator. The proudest moment thus far is having the opportunity to be featured on the Dallas, Texas radio station 97.9 The Beat with P Skillz. To be recognized as an up and coming artist, knowing some of my background, and diving in to some surface level biography. Outside of that, I won 3rd place in a competition that has gained me access to finals in Miami, Florida with Coast2Coast and a top placing in another competition that has potential opportunities in Chicago.

All beginnings have a history and those past encounters and experiences define the future in ways that are understood and misunderstood. Even in the things that are misunderstood, they can be used as positive reinforcement to better the mind, increase the strength of mentality, productivity of emotional status, and a stronger foundation of self. There will always be challenges, but in those challenges, I’m reminded of the moments that I was counted out, sometimes by others, other times by my own doing. For there were moments in my life that had every capability of taking me out, yet the reminder of the things I’ve overcome scream louder than the current circumstances.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Everyone has their own view of what is fun and interesting. Most of my friends enjoy a nice cocktail and aren’t very high maintenance, enjoying the experiences of friendships more than sight seeing and physical destinations. For it’s the people that make the difference. Some of the things that would be considered are jazz lounges and areas that have a variety of music, catering to the taste of all. The Lower Greenville areas, Bishop Arts District, and even Deep Ellum provide an array of things to do.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate a shout out to my Dad, whom was tragically taken from me January of 2019, in a hit and run. Although my not biological Father, he definitely taught me a lot about life and things that life could potentially bring. Along those lines, definitely my mom because well, I’m an only child and my mom has made countless sacrifices to provide for me. A Mom, a best friend, and someone that constantly challenges my way of thinking, giving me the reminder of being humble and staying level-headed. Both my kids, my daughter and my son, for being my daily motivation to keep pushing, keep fighting, and never let the obstacles of life take me out, no matter how bad they may seem. I see their faces and their consistent excitement just for me being their Dad makes a world of difference on those tough days!! To all that motivate me, support me, and are constantly striving for better for me, you are not forgotten!!

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