Mark Edmond on Balance, Intentionality, and Building His Own Path
Photography by @1k_lu / @lucidvisualsx
In this interview, I caught up with musician Mark Edmond, a dynamic artist known for his grounded perspective and commitment to his craft. Mark discusses the intentional approach he's taken to engage fans, his experiences performing, and the challenges of balancing personal responsibilities with a music career. Edmond’s vision for his music—and the sense of purpose that fuels him—illustrates the perseverance and thoughtfulness that define him as an artist and individual.
Joe: Mark! Ready for the interview? First off, how are you doing?
Mark Edmond: Joe! Always a pleasure talking to you. I mean, I have my ups and downs, but right now, I can honestly say I’m doing good. Been up since 6AM, I'm a bit tired, but I accomplished what I needed to accomplish today.
Joe: Likewise. I'm glad we could connect for another discussion. You've been busy lately, you had some recent performances and the crowds are getting bigger and participating more in the shows. What have you learned with your recent shows and how do you reflect on your progress in that regard?
Mark Edmond: Thank you, bro. And, it’s a blessing to see. I think for me, I’m constantly learning, but one of the main things I’ll say is finding that one niche record, at least— that people either know, or can learn quickly, instead of completely switching it up every show like I’ve done in the past. Right now, that song’s ‘Down Before’, and the feeling never gets old hearing people sing along to it.
Joe: At this rate you're gonna have more and more people singing those songs each time you go out and perform! You gave us another great project over the Summer, and this time you put it up exclusively for fans to download off of your website first. What motivated you to use that release strategy, and how would you reflect on it?
Mark Edmond: That's the goal, and I can't wait. Honestly, I can't remember the exact moment that motivated me, I probably was watching a Nipsey Hussle or Master P interview, but I would say it's been on my mind long before I actually did it. I think it was a success. A learning experience, but like I said on the song, ‘Edmond Way’ even if I sell one copy, which I didn't, I actually sold more, so I'm beyond grateful for all the people who bought it. You never know who's ready, and willing to support you until you go for it, and put yourself out there.
Joe: That's so true. To me 'Edmond Way' feels like an anthem that would be a great live song. Do you ever make adjustments to songs based on how you want it to sound live, or does that not factor in?
Mark Edmond: To be honest, that’s been one of the most challenging songs to perform live, but it has the potential to be one of those type of songs, for sure. I added that second hook at the end, imagining me performing it live, but normally, I wouldn’t say that’s something I think about while creating, well at least not to that degree.
Joe: That totally makes sense. I think you went 5 for 5, no misses on this project. But I gotta say 'Forever Is Never' feels like a timeless classic to me. What's your personal favorite song off the new project?
Mark Edmond: Mission accomplished. And, that's one of them ones, for sure. It changes so often, so I can't really say. Let me get back to you on that one (laughs).
Joe: No worries! In 'Purpose' you talk about building a career in music while also having to maintain your responsibilities. How do you strike that balance between work and pursuing a creative career? Do you have advice for others in a similar situation?
Mark Edmond: I’m still trying to strike that balance, not to mention, my personal life, too, but I’ll say a lot of sacrificing; making time, and being intentional. I look at it like it’s all apart of my journey, so I try to embrace what’s happening right now, knowing it won’t be like this forever. I even keep my business cards on me while I’m working, so I have something to look forward to, instead of complaining all the time, and making excuses.
All of this cost, so you gotta do what you gotta do, and not worry about what other people might think, especially if they’re just talking, and not actually helping you. I was working two jobs, with no car, walking, taking the bus, Lyfts back and forth to the studio, etc. while working on my first project, and I wouldn't change that.
Joe: I feel it. Some people think you gotta make it without a job and that's almost impossible. It seems like you are always working on something. New music, music videos, performances, interviews, social media posts, etc. Where did your strong work ethic come from?
Mark Edmond: To each his own, what might’ve worked for one person, may not work for the next. I would say, at some point, I feel like you do have to take that leap, but prior to that, there's not only one way to make it, and making it is subjective as well. Even if there was only one way, why can't someone be the first to do it another way? And, it goes back to being intentional, knowing I want more out of life for myself, and my loved ones. I'm already in 2025 (laughs).
Joe: I think that makes sense... it's all about reading the moment. You put so much time into your music, do you ever take mental breaks, or are you always thinking about the next move?
Mark Edmond: Exactly. Things were a lot different a few years ago, so I can't take these moments for granted. And, honestly, I haven't really, probably since after my grandpa passed away over a year ago, but even then, I was working on the ‘Edmond Way’ album during that time, so I might need to take one soon, like an extended one. It gets overwhelming, especially when it’s just you, yet discouraging at times, dealing with people; but at the same token, keeping busy is like my way of coping with life, and plus, things been picking up, so I'm playing it by ear.
Joe: Fair enough. I do think its important to make a little you time every once in a while. Just a couple more questions! Let's talk about goals. It feels like with every project you're doing something a little different. What do you want to accomplish next? Both in music and outside of music?
Mark Edmond: For sure. Next, would be to have some Edmond Way merch available for sale, and to build a solid team. That’s the main thing I’ll say I’m missing, and maybe I need to put my guard down for that to happen as well, but I feel like as long as I keep doing what I’m doing now by myself, the right people’ll come along, and I’ll know when it’s legit. Outside of music, I have a few, but I recently paid off my car this month, so I’m celebrating that.
Joe: Love it! Paying off a car is a great feeling I'm sure. And that's great, my last question was literally going to be about merch! Always great catching up with you Mark. I think you have an impact on everyone you interact with and so I appreciate you dedicating some time for this. Any shout outs before we wrap up?
Mark Edmond: Believe that. And, the feeling's mutual. I try my best. Can't please everyone, but I know my intention's are pure, so I be at peace with that. I want to shout out everybody who went on my website, and bought my latest project; can't thank y'all enough. Shout out to all those supporting, in whichever way they see fit. Shout out to my family, and all my loved ones. Shout out to Milan, she's about to drop her next single “Texted Twice” on Friday, 11/1. Shout out to everybody who's going through a low point right now. Keep y'all heads up, and faith strong; better days ahead, always. Last but not least, shout out to you, Joe. Love!
There is no such thing as a bad conversation with Mark, and I thank him for devoting his time for this piece. Mark does an excellent job of explaining the deliberate choices he makes in his music. Through each project, Mark strives to inspire his audience with raw, relatable messages while steadily pushing his vision forward. His commitment to authenticity and the “Edmond Way” is strong, and as he continues to build his brand and share his work, Mark’s journey serves as a motivating reminder of the power of intention, hard work, and self-belief.
