Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?
John Mark: I am from Malta, I grew up in a town called Msida, later relocated to St.Julian’s, the area we relocated to is called Pembroke. I always loved music, especially singing. And was always fascinated by the idea of singing in clubs, hotels & events.
Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?
John Mark: My tip to upcoming artists would be to keep humble. Even if you’re superb at what you do, there’s always a learning curve. Even when you’ve gained experience, music is always evolving, we never know it all… We learn from everyone, even from those who are just starting out. Always keep humble & respect more experienced musicians, we all need each other.
Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?
John Mark: Mistakes are part & parcel of every performance…. not just music! There are athletes, politicians, teachers, anyone, we’re all human, we all make mistakes. The important thing is not let it go to your head. It’s not the end of the world if you make mistakes. Just carry on. I always say this: Those who understand music, will know mistakes happen, so there’s no fuss about it, while those who don’t understand music, perhaps won’t even notice a mistake! – Besides, we can’t always please everyone & criticism is always going to be there. Just don’t let it affect you in a negative way.
Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?
John Mark: At the moment I’m working on a project with a band called ‘Copper’. We are still in the early stages of shaping our repertoire & stuff like that. We are five talented musicians, and there is the main ingredient for us to do well together, which is friendship – not just getting together to play while hardly talk to each other… that’s the biggest mistake bands do nowadays.
Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?
John Mark: To be honest, I leave the promotion side to other people…. I’m not good at promoting & stuff like this. Most I do (personally) are interviews (like this one) & uploading my music on social media, sharing on Facebook, YouTube & these type of platforms…. but I’m really not into promoting stuff. I prefer to have other people taking care of that side of the business.
Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?
John Mark: Well, I would have loved to perform with Joe Dolan (an Irish entertainer) but he’s passed away. As for living artists, It would be a dream come true if I could perform with The Scorpions as well as with Sir Elton John. Sir Elton John has been my favourite singer for as long as I can remember & has been an inspiration to me as a singer, while The Scorpions are by far my favourite rock band. I love Klaus Meine’s voice (Scorpions lead singer) & their sound is excellent. As to where, I wouldn’t care as long as we’ll get to perform together. If I had to choose between them though, It’ll be with Sir Elton John and full band.
Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?
John Mark: Well that’s a very difficult question! As a job, I’m a security officer/guard. As hobbies, I’m a Liverpool FC supporter, I enjoy playing five a side football…. even if it’s been a while since I played now… I’m 43, not getting younger and I’ve just had a little injury involving an electric scooter… but I’m recovering well. Since I’m a Christian (born again evangelical Christian) I’d probably would be more involved in church ministry stuff. Serving the Lord is very pleasing & I think it’s also my duty too. I do serve in a praise and worship team/band in fact.
Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in the next year or so?
John Mark: Hopefully, the launching of the band ‘Copper’ – We’re all working towards a launching, so that’ll be the thing people should wait for.
Exposed Vocals: Any Shout-outs?
John Mark: First and foremost – I’m always grateful to the Lord for literally giving me everything I have. Voice, strength, live… and above all Salvation through Jesus Christ alone. – Then I’d like to thank everyone who helps me in my career, all those who support me, you people from Exposed Vocals for featuring this interview and anyone who likes my music & keeps encouraging me. – Like I said earlier in this interview, we all need each other.
