Marc Kinchen Biography
If you’ve ever tapped your feet to the rhythm of a house music track, chances are you’ve encountered the…
If you’ve ever tapped your feet to the rhythm of a house music track, chances are you’ve encountered the genius of Marc Kinchen. Known to the world by his initials, MK, this Detroit-born maestro has been spinning magic in the music industry for over three decades.
From his early beginnings to his rise as a global phenomenon, MK’s journey is a compelling tale of passion, perseverance, and prodigious talent. As we delve into his life and career, we’ll uncover the man behind the music, the beats that have defined generations, and the legacy that continues to inspire. Stay tuned as we take you on a fascinating journey through the life of Marc Kinchen.
Early Life & Background
Born on August 3, 1972, in Detroit, Michigan, Marc Kinchen’s early life played a crucial role in shaping his illustrious music career. Growing up in a city internationally recognized for its rich music culture and techno movement, Kinchen showed an affinity for music at a young age. His familial background, too, emanated musical flair. Specifically, his grandfather played in a band while his uncle owned a prominent Detroit recording studio, setting the stage for Kinchen’s entry into the music scene.
During his teenage years, Kinchen’s widespread exposure to diverse musical styles helped to refine his discerning ear and appreciation for a variety of sounds. From rhythm and blues, a staple in his household, to Detroit techno invading the airwaves, Kinchen’s formative years were saturated with music.
In the late 1980s, Marc began experimenting with music production. Primarily using homebound equipment, Kinchen harnessed his keen understanding of melodies and rhythm to create his unique house music. His exceptional talent, passion, and perseverance soon led him to cross paths with Kevin Saunderson, a legend in the dance music industry. Their meeting, a pivotal point in Kinchen’s early career, provided an invaluable mentorship. Under Saunderson’s guidance, Kinchen honed his production skills, further solidifying his foundation in the music industry.
Marc Kinchen’s early life and background, steeped in music and encouraged by industry connections, played an instrumental role in his successful career. His narrative is an embodiment of the power of nurturing talent, persisting in the pursuit of passion, and the inspirational value of having industry mentors. Ignited in his youth, Marc’s love for house music would transcend his Detroit roots, reaching global recognition and impacting the house music genre for decades to come.
Breakthrough in the EDM Scene
Following the solid foundation developed under the mentorship of Kevin Saunderson, Marc Kinchen, popularly known as MK, penetrated the Electronic Dance Music (EDM) scene with remarkable elegance. Detroit-based MK etched his distinctive brand into the EDM canvas in the early 1990s.
MK’s unique blend of Detroit techno and soulful house music caught the attention in the dance circuit. His breakthrough came in the year 1993 when he released the single “Always”, featuring Alana. His definitive remix of Nightcrawler’s “Push The Feeling On” stormed the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart in 1995, attaining the position of number 1 and, subsequently, the UK Singles Chart in 1996, reaching number 3.
MK’s brilliance lies in his signature sound, a skill honed through years of music production. His remixes often used dubbed-out and stripped-back versions of original tracks, defining a unique style that has become synonymous with the MK brand.
Continuing his journey in the music industry, he has worked with top-tier talents, including Pitbull, Beyoncé, and Storm Queen. His 2017 hit with Becky Hill, “Piece of Me”, further underscored his position in the EDM scene. It became an instant favorite among EDM enthusiasts, maintaining a months-long residence in the UK Top 10 chart.
From the release of his breakthrough single to his current success, MK has consistently proven his versatility and dominance in the EDM landscape. His influence extends beyond his successful singles and remixes, as he actively nurtures upcoming talent through his own record label, Area 10. Currently, MK’s contribution to the EDM scene remains unrivaled, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of music producers around the globe. By wisely utilizing the lessons learned from his mentor and his passion, MK’s ascension in the EDM scene solidifies his place in the annals of dance music history.
Signature Sound & Production Techniques
Marc Kinchen’s mastery in Electronic Dance Music tastefully blends elements of Detroit techno and soulful house music. Unearthing his production techniques gives us a glimpse into the essence of his unique sound profile.
What Type of EDM is Marc Kinchen?
Marc Kinchen’s sound primarily falls under house music, with a substantial influence from Detroit techno. His propensity for fusing soulful tones with catchy melodies characterizes his EDM style. For instance, his single “Always” encapsulates robust house beats coupled with emotive vocals. Products of his genius, like the 1995 “Push The Feeling On” remix, exhibit Kinchen’s ability to transform a track while maintaining its soul, embodying classic house rhythms with his signature touch. His adeptness in diverse EDM styles, coupled with his roots deeply planted in Detroit techno, craft an eclectic and infectious sound enjoyed by a vast audience.
Similar Artists to Marc Kinchen
MK’s influence on the electronic dance music landscape resonates with several artists who’ve shared similar paths in the genre. His Detroit techno foundations and soulful house music fusion have inspired a range of musicians who echo his unique sound profile.
One noteworthy artist is ‘The Saunderson Brothers’. Hailing from the same Detroit environment as Kinchen, they’ve not only inherited their father Kevin Saunderson’s acclaimed Detroit techno legacy, but also embrace soulful house elements, creating an eerily familiar echo to MK’s characteristic sound. Given their father’s mentorship role in shaping MK’s early career, it’s no surprise that their musical styles share common underpinnings.
Another artist echoing MK’s unique sound is Lee Foss. He often blends elements of Chicago house and 80s synth-pop, similar to how MK fuses Detroit techno with soulful house. Known for his distinctive grooves and melodic style, Foss’ music often explores the same emotionally rich space that MK has made his own.
Comparable, too, is the Grammy-nominated DJ and producer, Duke Dumont, whose infectious energy and propensity for stringing together emotionally charged, catchy melodies align with MK’s signature soulful house vibes. Indeed, Duke Dumont’s continued success with hits like “Ocean Drive” mirrors Kinchen’s chart-climbing pattern.
The internationally acclaimed DJ and producer Jax Jones stands out as well. Reflective of MK’s broad appeal, Jones’s music spans a wide audience, deftly blending energetic beats, soulful tones, and catchy melodies in a fashion that’s reminiscent of Kinchen’s sound.
Also in line with MK’s sound is Gorgon City, a British electronic duo known for their deep house tunes characterized by catchy melodies and soulful vocal lines. Their top tracks like “Ready For Your Love” strongly echo the blend of soulful house and Detroit Techno that Kinchen has perfected.
A nod, too, to Detroit Swindle. The Amsterdam based duo embrace a sound heavily influenced by Detroit techno, similar to MK. Their distinctive blend of funky grooves and deep house makes them a noteworthy mention in this list.
Discography
After establishing the mark that MK left on the EDM scene, let’s delve into his personal discography. His career, spanning over three decades, runs rich with original tracks, collaborations, and remixes. From his initial steps into the music world to his current prominence, Marc Kinchen’s discography reflects his continuous evolution as an artist.
Initial Releases
MK’s journey into music creation began in 1991, with the release of ‘Somebody New’ and ‘The Rains,’ soulful house tracks that hinted at his future influence in the genre. His foundational years were a flurry of activity, including the famous 1993 release ‘Always’. Garnering international recognition, this track became instrumental in marking his foothold in the industry.
Major Collaborations
Transitioning from his nascent stage, MK’s career amplified with high-profile collaborations. In 2011, he brought his unique edge to Pitbull’s ‘Give Me Everything.’ Following this, in 2013, MK contributed to ‘Little’ by Storm Queen, cementing his position in the industry. Moreover, he extended his reach into the pop realm with a remix of Beyoncé’s ‘Partition’ in 2014. His versatile touch resonated across genres, marking collaborative milestones in his discography.
Recent Achievements
Fast forward to present times, MK’s consistency remains evident in his productions under his record label Area 10. In 2017, ’17’ featuring Carla Monroe, became an international hit, followed by ‘Piece of Me’ and ‘Back & Forth.’ Showing no signs of slowing down, it’s clear his discography showcases not only his impressive past but also a promising future.
By examining his discography, one gains a more comprehensive understanding of Marc Kinchen as an artist. His ability to evolve and adapt, combined with his unwavering dedication, vividly paints a colorful musical journey that still continues to this very day.
Tours & Live Performances
After understanding Marc Kinchen’s early life, exploration into similar artists, and extensive discography, it’s crucial to discuss his performances on stage. Known for captivating shows, MK has toured worldwide, playing electrifying sets and entertaining dance music enthusiasts globally.
One significant concert interface for MK was the widely acclaimed Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in 2019. Amongst a lineup that included Childish Gambino and Tame Impala, MK didn’t show any signs of being outshined, but instead held his own with a pulsating, groove-filled set that demonstrated his mixture of Detroit techno and soulful house music.
Next, at Creamfields which is England’s significant dance music festival, MK made multiple appearances. In 2020, for example, he played a thrilling set despite the event being hosted virtually due to constraints related to the global pandemic.
Live at Output – BROOKLYN (2014) was another seminal event in MK’s career. Here, with an extended set, MK demonstrated his prowess, taking the crowd on a house music journey with tracks spanning decades of electronic dance music.
Moreover, MK has been a major act at the Miami Music Week, performing in venues like the National Hotel and Nikki Beach. His performances at the 2019 Warehouse Project and Hi Ibiza, some of the world’s hottest dance clubs, are critical markers of his relevance and longevity as a performer.
In addition to solo performances, MK has also shown his collaborative strength. He has shared stages with the likes of Diplo, Gorgon City and Hot Since 82.
These tours and live performances illustrate the global presence and impact of MK, reinforcing his position in the electronic dance music scene. They serve as testament to his ability to not only produce music that resonates with listeners, but also perform it live in a manner that engages audiences worldwide.
Personal Life & Off-stage Persona
Marc Kinchen, more popularly known as MK, largely keeps his personal life under wraps, creating allure around his off-stage persona. His focus remains loyal to his career: inspiring innovative approaches to electronic dance music and nurturing new talent.
Born in Detroit, MK’s calling for house music became evident in his early years. His mentor, Kevin Saunderson, played a pivotal role in shaping his talent. MK maintains a close connection to his city, giving back to its vibrant music scene whenever possible. An example of this is his active participation in Detroit’s annual Electronic Music Festival.
With an impressive career spanning over three decades, MK’s unwavering passion for music is evident. He juggles responsibilities seamlessly, producing groundbreaking music, imparting training to upcoming artists through his record label Area 10, and remaining a favorite at music festivals worldwide.
Despite his gravitation towards electronic dance music, MK enjoys a wide range of music genres. Among his favorite collections, he often cites soulful classics, essentially frescoes of his hometown’s rich musical history. This diverse inclination solidifies MK’s reputation as a well-rounded artist, intriguing and versatile.
MK’s off-stage persona remains as inspiring to his fans as his influential music. Sporting a low-key style, he exudes an understated charisma. Automated gears, gadgets, and synthesizers might be MK’s professional preference, but off-stage, he values simplicity and authenticity.
Striking an admirable balance between the throbbing heartbeat of his career and his grounded persona, MK maintains a rich, private life. Yet, his unswerving dedication to his craft and the music industry resonates in every beat he produces, making Marc Kinchen, or MK, a revered icon in the realm of electronic dance music.
Follow Marc Kinchen
Instagram: @marckinchen
Facebook: @OfficialMK
Twitter: @MarcKinchen
YouTube: MK (Marc Kinchen)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Marc Kinchen?
Marc Kinchen, also known as MK, is a renowned DJ and record producer from Detroit, Michigan. He is famed for his unique blending of Detroit techno and soulful house music, producing hits like “Always” and “Push The Feeling On.”
What is MK’s significant contribution to house music?
MK’s significant contribution lies in his unique sound, blending Detroit techno and soulful house music. This distinct style has produced numerous successful hits and greatly influenced the electronic dance music scene.
Who is Kevin Saunderson?
Kevin Saunderson is an influential figure in MK’s career. A mentor to MK, Kevin helped shape MK’s musical style, guiding him towards his successful career in house music.
Can you describe MK’s off-stage persona?
Off-stage, MK maintains a low-key style and remains authentic to his Detroit roots. He dedicates his time to his record label Area 10, where he mentors upcoming talents. MK’s love for diverse music genres and commitment to mentorship defines his off-stage persona.
What is Area 10?
Area 10 is MK’s record label, through which he nurtures and supports new talents in the world of electronic dance music. This label is a testament to his passion for music and commitment to fostering fresh talent.
How does MK balance his private life and music career?
MK manages to balance his private life and music career by staying true to his passions and dedicating enough time to his personal needs. He remains dedicated to his craft yet ensures a rich private life, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.