The music and mission of Philly talent Marcus “Rated Art” Bryant.
In this month’s Spotlight Sessions, I had the privilege of sitting down with Marcus “Rated Art” Bryant, a true creative force in Philly’s music scene and beyond. Marcus has done it all—from working with some of the biggest names in the industry, to mentoring young artists and advocating for underrepresented voices.
What struck me most during our conversation wasn’t just his accomplishments, but his heart for service and his belief in the power of empathy. Together, we explored how giving back and staying grounded in gratitude can transform not only careers but entire communities. This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
LIFTING WHILE CLIMBING
Andre: Marcus, you’ve had an impressive career in music. You’re not only creating art but also leading as President of the Recording Academy’s Philly chapter. How did you first get involved with the Academy who produces the GRAMMYs?
Marcus: Years ago, I started attending their events as a guest. I’d offer to help out with small tasks—rolling carpets, setting up chairs—whatever was needed. The executive director at the time noticed my propensity to serve, and suggested I run for a board position. I was clueless about what the role entailed but said yes. From there, I worked my way up—from governor to secretary to vice president and now president. It all started with a willingness to serve.
Andre: Respect. You’ve always been generous with your knowledge and guidance. When I was navigating the Academy process, you were open and helpful. That’s rare in an industry where gatekeeping is so common.
Marcus: Thank you, I’m big on demystifying things. Gatekeeping limits opportunities, and we need more people stepping into spaces where they can make a difference. I believe in opening doors, not closing them.
Andre: Speaking of making a difference, tell me about your LOUD Series. What inspired you to start it?
Marcus: LOUD Series is my way of addressing gaps I saw in the industry. It’s part mentorship, part advocacy, part education, and part performance. We do everything from workshops on cultural appreciation to curating events like Sarah Vaughn’s 100th celebration at Newark Symphony Hall. That event featured Patti LaBelle, Siedah Garrett, and others. LOUD gives me a platform to bring people together and amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Andre: So much of what you do is giving back to the community. How do you stay inspired to keep giving?
Marcus: Helping others fulfills me. A friend was going through a tough time, he was like “What can I do? How do I get out of this?” And I told him, “On your worst days, pour into someone else.” A year later, he thanked me, saying that advice changed his life. Moments like that remind me why I do this. I’ve learned to trust that when you give with a good heart, it comes back in ways you may not expect.
I feel like however much I give of myself, God is always pouring back into me. Maybe not the way I expect, but I’ve learned to have faith that positive energy creates more positive energy. It’s good for you, and it’s good for the community in general. So I’m always here for it. I try to keep an attitude of gratitude and generosity, whatever I do.
Andre: That’s something I live by too. I believe the more you give, the fuller your life will be. If you’re only about transactional arrangements, I think you’ll miss out on real opportunities to make a difference. I’m a big Lauren Hill fan, and she says, “Sometimes it’s not about being right, but being righteous,” right? Just doing the right thing is its own reward in ways we probably don’t even see coming.
Marcus: Exactly. Every good thing in my life has felt like a surprise, like a wink from God. When you lead with empathy and intention, good things have a way of finding you.
Andre: That reminds me of that A.C. event you invited me to! It’s funny, I’m normally the one that makes my boat go, it was really refreshing when you reached out. And now I’m looking forward to new opportunities, that we’ll both find as we collaborate. It’s very organic and gratifying.
Marcus: Yes and you know what? Things work out better that way, and together we produce more. At the heart of this process is empathy. We all express ourselves in different ways, and collaboration can be messy. When we stop expecting perfection and make space for everyone, beautiful things happen. Empathy builds stronger connections and better outcomes.
Andre: That’s powerful. So what’s next for you? I know you’ve got a lot on your plate.
Marcus: Next up is the GRAMMYs in L.A. While I’m there, I’ll also be supporting communities affected by the wildfires. After that, I’ll be performing on the 17th Annual Capital Jazz SuperCruise. Following up with a performance at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for Art-ish 2025. On the music side, I’m finishing up a transparent and vibey project that holds true to who I am.
My latest single off it, “Cliché,” is my way of giving the world permission to let love be what it is; never forced… pure passion. It bottles up the raw emotions music conveyed before things got sonically intense. It’s about getting back to sincerity in music, and how real love should affirm, build, and make you feel good. That is “Cliché.” And another top priority for me is continuing my work with Philly students this spring, helping them find their voices through the arts.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Reflecting on my conversation with Marcus, I’m reminded of how small acts of generosity can ripple outward to create lasting impact. Marcus’s journey shows that leadership starts with service and empathy, values I’ve always believed in. Through Spotlight Sessions, my goal is to highlight inspiring Philadelphians like Marcus who are powerfully shaping their communities. These stories remind us all of the importance of gratitude, collaboration, and the incredible strength that comes from lifting each other up.
Marcus “Rated Art” Bryant is a music industry veteran of 20+ years. An award-winning performer, he’s worked with countless artists, including John Legend, H.E.R., Ludacris, and Will Smith. Beyond the studio, he serves as President of the Recording Academy’s Philadelphia chapter and leads the LOUD Series, which empowers underrepresented voices in the arts. Follow @iamratedart on Instagram and Youtube
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Spotlight Sessions is a series conceived of and developed by artist-educator Andre Saunders to highlight inspirational local people with personal, community-focused interviews. CLICK HERE to read last month’s feature on Daija Me, local radio personality and marketing professional.
Check out Andre’s latest music project “Better Late Than Never”, a deft, layered introspective with unforgettable rhymes and hooks.
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