MariBased1’s mission is to shine a light on the Seattle music scene by becoming the next local breakout star. His music career started with experimentation: “Honestly, I had to dabble in it. I literally had to make hella songs. I had to try different things — play with the autotune, play with the beats, trial and error. I had to learn what a key was, just to be in sync and find the right pitch. It took me a good 4-5 years of asking questions to learn that.” 

In his 2019 hit “Bouncin” – a low-cruiser West Coast vibe that shows Mari’s braggadocious side – he confidently rides the beat and reminds listeners his mind is on the money. “Bouncin” has over 345,000 streams on Spotify, and 2020’s “Love Me” garnered over 132,000. Only 26 years old, Mari’s music has already been featured on B.E.T. and in Footlocker stores.

“I started performing more often in 2019, and I got my confidence as the years went on,” Mari said. “I became very clear. I know my worth. I started not to care about people’s opinions or thoughts. If you have anything to say about me I’m in your mind. I did something to make it there.” 

Mari’s 2021 single “Xuicide” shows the versatility of an artist who allows themself to experiment, be vulnerable, and to grow within the music game. But it’s Mari’s investment in his branding that stands out the most: He brought a giant inflatable version of his cover art from his 2019 EP Mariotto2 when he performed at the always eventful Fremont Friday. (The cover is a nod to Otto Rocket from the popular early-2000s Nickelodeon show “Rocket Power.”)

Look out for Maribased1’s next album, 48Oz.