Episode 21: Marco Plus Opens Up About Mental Health, Atlanta's Underground Scene, and His Quest to Be the Greatest Rapper of the 2020s

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Atlanta’s own Marco Plus for an in-depth conversation that dives far deeper than bars and beats. At 27, hailing from Southside College Park, Marco is a rapper and songwriter with a vision: to leave a lasting legacy and be remembered as one of the best songmakers of his generation.

From the jump, Marco shared his intentional approach to music. He talked about the importance of crafting cohesive worlds through his songs rather than just flexing technical skills. “You can rap all you want,” he told me, “but if it doesn’t stick with people, what’s the point?” He pointed to tracks like Hell Yeah as examples of his commitment to creating music with purpose — catchy, memorable, and deeply reflective of his unique style.

Our conversation quickly shifted to his latest project, Marco Plus vs. The Underworld. Marco explained that “The Underworld” isn’t just a concept; it’s a metaphor for the personal demons and challenges he faces as an artist — from mental struggles to navigating the competitive Atlanta music scene. The album cover, featuring three versions of himself, visually represents these internal conflicts. He opened up about relationships, vulnerability, and the personal battles that fuel his music, making songs like Falling resonate with authenticity and relatability.

We also talked about mental health and the pressures of the industry. Marco was candid about the anguish that comes with being an artist, the impact of social media, and the constant pressure to create and perform. He emphasized the need for support — whether it’s from friends, family, or a therapist — and the importance of taking care of your mental well-being.

Competition and standing out in the music industry were also on the table. Marco discussed the fickleness of audiences, the influence of co-signs from major artists, and the importance of having the right team. He expressed gratitude for support from peers like Smino and JID, who have encouraged him and recognized his talent.

Genre boundaries and evolving music trends were another highlight. Marco sees the blurred lines between genres as an opportunity: “It’s about cutting through and making your name for yourself,” he said, stressing that independent artists can compete with major labels if they stay strategic and intentional.

We also explored his relationship with fans in the social media era. Marco understands the power of engagement, building a community, and maintaining authenticity online. He shared insights into how being genuine with fans strengthens not only his brand but the impact of his music.

Looking forward, Marco Plus is laser-focused on growth. He wants to continue evolving as an artist, leave a lasting legacy, and make music that matters. He’s balancing career and personal life, staying grounded, and making sure that every step he takes aligns with his vision.

From Atlanta streets to the global stage, Marco Plus is more than just a rapper — he’s a storyteller, a visionary, and an artist with a message. This conversation was a reminder that the best music comes from those willing to be real, intentional, and unapologetically themselves.

Catch the full interview on YouTube and wherever you stream podcasts.