Marco Plus, a 27-year-old rapper from Atlanta, has found his artistic voice by transforming his struggles into lyrical mastery. In the opening verse of his newly released track, he raps, “I came from the hardest times/ decided not to cry and turn my pain into the hardest lines.” This line echoes the essence of his artistry and serves as a personal anthem for resilience.
Since 2021, Marco Plus, born Demarcus Pollard, has been steadily gaining recognition in the hip-hop world. His music delves into difficult themes such as depression, loneliness, and substance use as a means of coping. His lyrical proficiency suggests he can surpass the skills of even the most celebrated rappers in the industry.
Marco has attracted attention from notable platforms, including morning radio show “The Breakfast Club” and Complex magazine. He showcased his talents on stage at the Dreamville Festival in April and collaborated with fellow Atlanta artist JID, featuring on background vocals for JID’s recent single “Wrk.” With a new album slated for release this year, Marco aims to delve deeper into his authentic self while pursuing his aspirations of greatness.
In a Zoom interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, he asserted, “The best way to stand out is just by being me.”
Born in Pensacola, Florida, and raised in College Park, Marco’s affinity for music emerged early, influenced by a family that fostered his dreams. He recalls vibrant memories of his mother, grandmother, and aunt singing around the house, which inspired him to pursue a career in music.
Marco dropped out of Benjamin Banneker High School before completing his senior year to dedicate himself to his passion for music. His musical journey commenced in 2015 with the release of his first album, “My Friends Understand,” on SoundCloud. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that he began to consistently produce music, resulting in the release of six albums since then.
This increased output correlates with a tumultuous period in his life marked by deep depression. During this time, he faced heartbreak, became a father to his now five-year-old daughter, and dealt with the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Marco candidly reflects on his struggles with depression, revealing that he has battled it since first grade. He recalls instances in school where his sadness prompted teachers to contact his mother. Today, he credits his friends and his music as pivotal sources of support.
“I don’t think a lot of people know where the root of (depression) comes from,” he stated. “It just kind of happens.”
When it comes to his forthcoming album, Marco prefers to keep most details under wraps. As a perfectionist, he emphasizes that he is still refining his work. However, he assures fans that the same deep honesty found in previous releases, such as the single “OMM,” will be an integral aspect of the upcoming project.
In an interview, Marco Plus explored several aspects of his career, including his songwriting process and the themes present in his new album.
When asked about the influences outside his family that sparked his interest in music, Marco revealed, “It was (legendary New Orleans rap group) Hot Boys, to be honest.” He shared cherished childhood memories of rapping along to their songs while embracing the carefree spirit of youth.
The theme of his new album revolves around an “underworld,” symbolizing his personal struggles and adversities. He describes it as a reflection of the challenges one faces in life, such as surviving in a tough environment or dealing with grief and stress. The album aims to navigate through these darker corners of life, ultimately seeking a path to brighter days.
Marco shared a poignant experience that led him to embrace vulnerability in his music—a serious panic attack he endured before commencing his musical journey in 2015. This life-altering moment transformed his outlook, resulting in increased introspection and a commitment to writing about his mental health journey.
The rapper credits his supportive collective, Backseat, for their role in aiding his mental well-being. He recounts how he met Smiles, the founder of Backseat, in 2018 during a non-musical encounter that evolved into a close collaboration.
In a reflective moment, Marco spoke about a tragic loss he experienced when a friend committed suicide, a life event that underscored the importance of support during times of adversity.
As he approaches the release of his new album, Marco expresses confidence in its potential, stating, “I feel like this is my best project, but I also feel like it’s my most honest.” He aims to shed his ego and embrace vulnerability in ways that resonate deeper than his previous works.
Marco’s creative process varies—from using the punch-in method for freestyling to writing out more lyric-centric material. He often blends both techniques to create authentic connections within his music. “When it comes to songwriting and making hooks, I tend to freestyle more,” he explains, emphasizing the need for dynamic expression.
Ultimately, Marco Plus aspires for more than just technical prowess in his rapping. “I feel like everybody can rap good,” he stated, emphasizing that he does not wish to be labeled solely as a skilled rapper. Instead, he aims to convey his life’s narrative through his music, presenting a well-rounded and compelling artistic persona.
With each new release, Marco Plus highlights the importance of storytelling, expressed through his battles and triumphs. As he continues on his journey in the music industry, he looks to inspire others by sharing his raw truth and creativity.
For anyone grappling with mental health issues, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the United States is available by calling or texting 988 or 1-800-273-8255 and offers online chat support at 988lifeline.org.
image source from：https://www.ajc.com/arts-entertainment/2025/06/on-his-quest-to-be-the-best-ever-atlantas-marco-plus-is-as-real-as-his-raps/
