Meet Marcus Eaton: Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcus Eaton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcus, what role has risk played in your life or career?
This is a very interesting question at this particular moment in time because life is a series of risks. The greater the risk, the greater the reward. I have taken many risks with my life/career and I believe any artist will tell you that simply committing fully to your craft can be a risk. It means that you have chosen 100 percent that there is no plan B. It also means choosing a life that is not conventional. Because of this, when you do have successes it is even sweeter. On the flip side, you end up questioning yourself a lot and you have to work to keep a balance. These modes can help you create your best work as long as you don’t linger in a state of fear or worry. In my case, I am proud that I have remained completely true to my artistic and musical vision which is also risky. Regarding risk in the world, I believe we really need to realize that safety is an illusion and we really need to commit to re-connecting with one another. This pandemic has done some serious harm to our mentality and it is important for all of us to have a vision of the future we want to see.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a guitarist, singer-songwriter and I have been playing since I was nine. I have become known for mostly for my acoustic guitar work and original music. In addition, I played, sang and wrote with David Crosby for six years. I also created an original score for the documentary ‘David Crosby: Remember My Name’ along with Snarky Puppy pianist, Bill Laurance. A few years ago, McAlister Guitars released a signature ‘Marcus Eaton Model’ acoustic which has been an amazing honor. I absolutely love playing and my passion has continued to lead me in new and interesting directions. Music is a very challenging craft and I have experienced many challenges, including having master tapes stolen (twice), bands quitting a few days before a tour, extremely hazardous road conditions, terrible management, and I’ve been told ‘no’ more than anyone! Despite these challenges, I love music and I have always been fully committed to creating something unique and beautiful. I have just finished work on my latest album and I am really stoked about my new songs. They are fresh and exciting and I will begin releasing them soon!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If everything were open right now, I’d say: The Getty Museum for the beautiful art and the view. Coffee at my favorite shop Caffe Luxxe (who has the best espresso in LA.) or to M Street Coffee, another fave and killer caffe in LA. We’d also have to visit The Griffith Observatory and see shows at The Greek Theater and Hollywood Bowl. I also love the intimacy of The Troubadour. We would go on hikes all over from Fryman to Malibu to Temescal to Pasadena and of course, the ubiquitous Hollywood sign. Hiking rules here. We would also have to visit the Getty Malibu and have fish tacos on the PCH. No trip would be complete without gratuitous hangs on the beach. I prefer heading North and finding some empty places to soak in quiet and nature. I like to bring my guitar everywhere I go and quiet places are the best. Food-wise, the Grand Central Market downtown has a few places including an amazing Thai food stand. I am still looking for the best authentic Italian pizza place here so we could try some spots. We’d also have to explore Santa Barbara and go to La Super Rica, which is my favorite taqueria. I’d say that is a good start…

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am fortunate to have many amazing people in my life and there is one in particular who has been very supportive and encouraging. (In addition to my mom, who has been extremely loving and supportive since day one!) My friend Norm Waitt has gone above and beyond to show me his support, including introducing me to David Crosby which changed my whole career. His encouragement has helped push me along in every possible way since we met in 2006. I was opening for my friend and incredible guitarist, Tim Reynolds in Aspen in 2006 and Norm was in the audience. We met briefly after the show and we have been friends ever since. He is a very successful and generous person and an example of what humanity should aspire towards. He has always been there for me and I am grateful to have him in my life!

Website: https://www.marcuseaton.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcuseatonmusic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcuseaton

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcuseatonmusic/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mqeaton

Tiktok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMefrWkxC/