To most Floridians, Orlando may seem like nothing other than a toll-road tourist trap.
But it's also the home of one of the Sunshine State's youngest and most promising musicians -- though he wouldn't tell you that himself.
Marcel Everett is 17, shy, humble and soulful beyond his years. He's released a few albums and EPs, even toured Europe and the States under the name XXYYXX. He'll be returning to Bardot for a second-round performance along with some friends Thursday, June 27, and he's pretty sure you're going to like it.
See also:
-XXYYXX: "People Expect the Same Popular Song, Over and Over Again, I Hate That"
"There's a lot of denial," Everett said of his success on the road. "It's been more surreal now to realize that people are actually liking it instead of wanting to try it out."
Ask him about his beautiful productions or his live performances, and he'll downplay his talents like there's nothing there. But you don't sell out European dates fresh out of high school without having something special.
"I had no idea how to do anything a year ago, but after touring for almost a year, you kind of have to learn how to play," he said. "I think I have gotten a lot better. I haven't really gotten any complaints, so I guess I'm doing things right."
Not only has he received no complaints, he's racking up praises from some of the most respected names in the scene, and there's got to be a pretty good reason for that, right?
"Something as simple as getting love from one of my favorite producers, that's always amazing," he said. "When someone is interested in what you're doing, and they're one of the reasons that you're doing it. FlyLo showed me some love, Teebs, some of my favorite people. Simple things like that, they don't even know, but it just blows my mind."
Relief in Abstract Showcase with XXYYXX, Marble and Fortune Howl, with DJ set by Grant and XXYYXX. Thursday, June 27, at Bardot, 3456 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Ages 21 and up. The party starts at 10 p.m. and tickets are $16 plus fees at showclix.com. Call 305-576-5570 or visit bardotmiami.com.
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