For this week’s #TheCulturalConnection, KALTBLUT has caught up with Marcilli, one of Jamaica’s unique emerging talents. With their latest single “Done”, they’re elegantly blending dance music, R&B, and Latin pop. Marcilli stands out as one of the few openly queer Jamaican artists breaking boundaries in a culture often unfriendly to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Read the interview with Marcilli below.
KALTBLUT: Can you tell me about your latest release?
Marcilli: Imagine a song that’s your go-to for dancing and crying. This track is exactly that, a paradox. Writing this song was an outlet of how I felt after being mistreated by people who didn’t deserve my time and energy. It’s about boundaries and being done with the BS. What’s therefore awesome about “Done” is that it’s not just a Pop Dance tune – it’s got these flavours of Dominican Dembow and Guaguancó (Cuban Rumba) that give it some extra spice.
KALTBLUT: You’re one of the few openly-queer identifying artists in Jamaica. What kinda reactions are you getting to your music?
Marcilli: The response has been amazing so far. Both within my community and beyond, the feedback has been incredibly supportive. I’ve been receiving messages and DMs from individuals expressing their pride in me and how I’ve encouraged them to embrace their authenticity and pursue their dreams. It’s truly heart-warming, especially considering I’m in a country where being queer is still considered illegal, and same-sex marriages aren’t acknowledged. This leads to a situation where the LGBTQ community lives in constant fear of facing physical harm.
My light won’t fade; in fact, I’m fanning the flames of passion within my people.
KALTBLUT: Does activism play a role in your music career?
Marcilli: My music is deeply intertwined with activism. At the core of my career, I’m dedicated to amplifying the voices of the queer community in the Caribbean. Despite facing setbacks and being urged to stay silent about my identity for success, I’m determined to prove them wrong by embracing my authenticity with gusto. My light won’t fade; in fact, I’m fanning the flames of passion within my people.
KALTBLUT: How does culture influence your music?
Marcilli: My music is deeply shaped by the vibrant Caribbean and Western culture. While I was growing up, R&B and Pop dominated my playlist, infusing an international vibe into my sound. Yet, my Jamaican heritage effortlessly weaves its way into the mix, setting me apart from the crowd. It’s that unique blend that truly defines my musical identity.
Stream Marcilli’s single “Done” here and follow their Instagram @marcilliofficial to keep up with upcoming releases and concerts.
You can revisit all Cultural Connection interviews at #TheCulturalConnection here.
