In the heart of Hartford, Connecticut, an artist by the name of MACC MOVADO has been making waves with his unique blend of hip-hop, martial arts, and poetry. Raised in the gritty streets of the city, MACC has always had music as his outlet, shaping his sound and identity along the way. We caught up with him to talk about his journey, his influences, and his plans for the future.
Q: MACC, you’ve built quite a reputation as an artist, blending hip-hop with martial arts and poetry. Can you tell us about how all of that came together for you?
MACC MOVADO: It’s all about balance. Martial arts taught me discipline, focus, and how to control my energy, which I then apply to my music. Poetry was something I got into early on because I realized I had something to say. When I started freestyling at age 10, it wasn’t just about spitting bars—it was about expressing what was on my mind, my struggles, my ambitions. Music became my refuge. So, when I combine all these elements—hip-hop, martial arts, and poetry—it’s like I’m crafting a fight song for my spirit.
Q: You’ve cited a number of legends as your musical influences, such as Busta Rhymes, Obie Trice, DMX, and Nas. How have these artists shaped your sound?
MACC MOVADO: These guys were more than just musicians to me—they were warriors in their own right. Busta’s energy, Obie’s storytelling, Nas’s lyricism, and DMX’s rawness all resonated with me on a deep level. They each represented a different aspect of hip-hop that I could connect with, whether it was the aggression in the delivery or the introspective lyricism. I try to channel that same fire, that same authenticity in my music. It’s not just about the sound, it’s about the message and the emotions behind it.
Q: Your latest single, “Leave Me Alone,” is gaining traction. What does this song mean to you, and how does it reflect your growth as an artist?
MACC MOVADO: “Leave Me Alone” is a declaration of independence. It’s a song about self-reflection and understanding when it’s time to step away from distractions. For me, it’s an evolution of my sound and my mindset. When I look at where I started, I see how much I’ve grown—both as a person and as an artist. The track is a snapshot of where I am now. It’s introspective, but it’s also aggressive. It’s like a reflection in the mirror, but with the energy of someone ready to move forward.
Q: Collaboration seems to be a big part of your journey. You’ve worked with artists like Benny Holiday, Redd Simpkins, and Celis. How do these collaborations impact your music?
MACC MOVADO: Collaborations are powerful because they bring in different energies and ideas. Benny, Redd, and Celis—they all bring something unique to the table. Each time I work with someone new, it challenges me to step outside my comfort zone, to elevate my game. It’s never about competition; it’s about elevating the whole sound. When I’m in the studio with them, it’s like we’re all training together. We push each other, and that’s how great things happen.
Q: Looking ahead, you’ve mentioned wanting to work with Timbaland and securing a deal with SwaggerTown Records. What’s next for you?
MACC MOVADO: Timbaland is one of my biggest inspirations. His sound is timeless, and the way he blends different elements into his production is something I admire. Working with him would be a dream come true. As for SwaggerTown, I think their vision aligns with mine. It’s about creating something authentic, something that people can feel. But right now, my focus is on getting my music out to as many people as possible. I’m working on securing a distribution deal, and I’m really excited about the upcoming project, MACC THE RIPPER, which drops on February 25, 2025. There’s a lot more to come, and I can’t wait for the world to hear it.
Q: Five years from now, where do you see yourself?
MACC MOVADO: Five years from now, I see myself successful, healthy, and at peace with everything I’ve achieved. I want to continue to inspire, to share my story, and to keep pushing my music forward. Whether it’s on stage in Montreal or in the studio creating new tracks, I’ll always be giving 100%. My mission is to stay true to myself, and if I do that, everything else will follow.
MACC MOVADO is on the rise, and it’s only a matter of time before the world catches on.
