Marq Andrew Speck

Reaching The World, One Song At A Time™

In my regular role as lead vocalist/keyboard player for Sweet Crystal, I have been blessed to win 25 Detroit Music Awards in the Outstanding Gospel/Christian categories of singer, songwriter, musician, act and recording with no plans to stop any time soon. With the coming of this year, I am occasionally stepping away from my “Big Rig” and full band presentation into more intimate and personal settings. My “Solo But Never Alone” show brings my one-man/one keyboard (well, sometimes more than one keyboard because after all, it’s who I am) approach to my music, sharpening my focus on God and the Gospel message that has shaped and continues to shape everything in my life. My music and message are tied intricately together; what I have to say and how I say it are meant to come across filled with hope, inspiration, life and light. Why do this at this point in my career? I do this because I feel that if my songs lift me up in spirit, then I believe they will do the same for you. Check back here often for dates and opportunities to join me. I will always save you a seat. Q (what my family and friends…and now you... call me)

Profile

Instruments

Genres

Influences

Equipment

What is music to you? What does it give you?

My music and the message I write into every song gives me hope and inspiration... turning my vision from myself and directing it to God from where all my promise of salvation comes. If a song speaks to my heart, then I believe it will speak to others as well.

What is your music dream?

I would love to take my 40+ years of original music and craft them into a Broadway-style musical that inspires and uplifts while telling the story I have in mind. I have met so many talented performers, musicians and singers over the course of my career that I could crew different casts every night, making each performance unique despite being the same plot lines and music. Now that would be sweet... and probably very doable.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

Take everyone's eyes off of themselves and turn them toward God... where He in turn would turn everyone's eyes towards each other in love and servitude. Now wouldn't that be sweet indeed!

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

"Jesus Loves Me" - apparently my very first solo singing performance in public at our church. Who knew I'd be singing His praises well into my golden years (and beyond I'm thinking).

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

Sweet Crystal first and foremost. Current bands include the Neal Morse Band and Spock's Beard. Big fan of Queensryche and adore all things Keith Emerson, ELP, Yes and most every 70's English prog band. Kansas and Journey make my "Made In America" list.

What inspires you to make music?

The Bible, my wife and every time I touch a keyboard or piano... it just never stops.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

My trademarked tag line is "Reaching The World, One Song At A Time™" so that pretty much spells out my ongoing journey..

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

Still get nervous (hoping all the gear will work, I'll be able to hear my vocals) but once the songs start flowing, I get lost in the sound and the message and just let the Holy Spirit take over... because He can do a whole lot more with what I have to offer than I can.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

Less jealousy... envy can kill creativity. There's room for everyone.

What do you think of Drooble?

So far so good. haven't got my he'd around everything offered here but certainly looking forward to continue on with it.

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Not enough time to work with all the projects that come my way.

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

I promote local bands on social media platforms, play multi-band events whenever possible and book opening acts for Sweet Crystal every chance I can.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Perfect your craft. Don't ever stop learning and treat others with respect.

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Noah Tatum, Gail Engling