Broussard's debut CD explores multiple genres
Marc Broussard, a Louisiana native, stands poised to break onto the national pop scene. His music, a mix of rock 'n' roll and R&B, manifests his abilities as a singer-songwriter.
Broussard recently released his debut CD, "Momentary Setback," on an independent record label, and says he is currently seeking a major label to distribute the album.
Currently on tour, Broussard made a stop at Senate Park on Sunday night. He is currently opening for bands such as Maroon 5, who also played Sunday, and O.A.R.
Broussard's music seems to draw heavily on classic R&B influences and is reminiscent of Motown in many ways. "Momentary Setback" tests the genre's waters , including songs that range from progressive rock to a slightly hip-hop-flavored R&B.
"If it were up to me, I would release two or three singles at one time to different formats," Broussard said. "I definitely think that I have the power to cross genres."
Broussard's musical ability is an inheritance of sorts. Both his father and grandfather were musicians. His father, Ted Broussard, played guitar for the New Orleans R&B group the Boogie Kings.
"My dad is by far my favorite guitar player," Broussard said. "He's just an amazing and talented guy. I don't really consider myself a guitar player, I consider myself more of a vocalist. I was always more into vocals than guitar growing up."
Broussard says his earliest influences came from a variety of sources ranging from jazz acts such as Chick Corea and Wes Montgomery to Otis Redding and Marvin Gaye.
"As far as singer-songwriters go, my main influence is Marvin Sexton. I somehow fit all that crap together into one package," Broussard said.
"Momentary Setback" has the kind of pop sensibility that should make the album easily digestible for record-company executives. With effective promotion and marketing, a few top 10 hits could easily be squeezed out of the record.
The tracks on the album are varied, and showcase Broussard's ability to play both rock and a more soulful style of R&B. Though his ability to embody a wide variety of musical styles may serve him well financially, some of Broussard's genre crossing seems a bit contrived. His ventures into alternative rock seem indistinguishable from countless other radio cuts from countless other bands. Broussard seems most natural on the album when he is playing R&B. He's got a great voice for soul, and his vocal abilities are well supported by a talented band. His lack of lyrical originality probably stems from the fact that Broussard is only 20 years old.
One mark in Broussard's favor is that he feels most comfortable playing in front of a crowd.
"I think I put my best foot forward live," said Broussard.
So we have a pop musician who can actually play an instrument and enjoys live performances. Broussard may just be a bona-fide star in the making.
Rob Seal/March 21, 2003
USC's The Gamecock