I first found out about Charlie Mars through an old friend at EMI Music Publishing who was thinking of signing him to a publishing deal. Around that same time, Charlie had signed to V2 Records, the label that had helped launch The White Stripes. But ultimately, his tenure within the major label world was short-lived with V2’s sale and restructuring in 2007.
Even though his “major” days are behind him, Charlie never stopped making music. His most recent full-length was 2014’s The Money, but per our Q&A, a new album is planned for release in 2016. Around the same time, Charlie will appear in the forthcoming Matthew McConaughey film titled The Free State Of Jones. Prior to that album and movie will come a New York City gig on September 23rd at City Winery.
Great songs aside, Charlie can also be commended for the honesty in his responses below. He has a healthy perspective on both artistry and friendship.
Photo Darin Black
Having done the major label circuit in the mid-2000s, what was your biggest take-away from those years of your career?
Charlie Mars: I worked with some great people at V2 Records and learned so much about how the industry worked at that time. I’ve carried many of those lessons and relationships into my indie career. What I learned is I only have a few friends in this world, and that it is up to me to move things forward. Nobody is gonna be there to catch you when you fall in this business.
Your career started with Rockingham Records and now you’re back under the Rockingham tag. Where did that label name come from?
C: My parents used to live on Rockingham Drive. The title seemed fitting.
Your upcoming album may feature songs co-written with Hayes Carll and Union Station’s Dan Tyminski. Are there any other folks you’ve been writing with as of late?
C: I’ve been writing a good bit on Music Row in Nashville. I’ve written with so many great people. It’s fun to collaborate after so many years of going it alone. I’ve written with some great writer/artists there like James Slater, Tyler Reeve, Jeff Cohen and Rick Brantley, to name a few.
Any idea when that new album will be coming out?
C: I should have a new record out early next year.
Do you have plans to write for other artists outside your solo albums?
C: Yeah. I’ve really been enjoying just writing, and not so much of the travel. I love to write songs, and I want them to be great.
Given your recent role in The Free State of Jones, are there plans for you to act more in the future?
C: Well, I wasn’t really acting. I was just playing harmonica while everybody else was acting. I’m down for movies. They pay good, and who doesn’t wanna be in a movie? I don’t think I have much to offer on the acting front, though.
For someone who hasn’t seen you live before, how would you describe a Charlie Mars show?
C: I tell stories. We all laugh. I sing songs. If it’s solo, I try to really make it intimate and real and fun. If I have the band, I like to get people moving.
Is there something you wish more people knew about you? Or are you happy to be primarily thought of a “singer/songwriter?”
C: I’m happy not to be thought of at all. I hope the songs get out there. I love beautiful songs, I really do. I’ve had my ego stroked, it doesn’t last.
Finally, Charlie, any last words for the kids?
C: The only things I’ve ever done in this life that mattered to me in the end, were done from a place of vulnerability and honesty. I’d tell the kids to find that place and not be afraid to show it. I’ve wasted so much time in my life dancing around that place. Find it, fight for it, spread the love.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
