Interview: Marxoxo
Marxoxo is the bratty air-pop project of trans Filipina artist, Mar. Her writing pulls inspiration from personal drama, dreams, and diaries, snuggling lightly between the hyperpop of Charli XCX and innocence of Britney Spears. But more than that, it’s a juxtaposition of identities, reconciling growing up in a humble hick town with proudly growing into herself.
Marxoxo's latest project, 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘝 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, is a testament to their duality as the mini album chronicles romanticizing a toxic relationship then grappling with its dire dynamics. With poignant and fun lyricism coupled with crisp production and features from Boy Sim, Sabby Sousa, and Nitrah Neon, 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘝 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 solidifies itself as a cult classic.
Marxoxo is a sought after fixture in hyperpop, alternative, and LGBTQ+ scenes, performing regularly and curating their own Club XOXO concert series. They’ve also been featured by tastemaker indie blogs, TIDAL’s editorial We Are Everywhere playlist, Grindr's New Music Frigay playlist, and Charli XCX's "Charli" live tour.
We had the pleasure of checking with Marxoxo and she was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions:
Congratulations on the release of your new single ‘Anywayz’ , what does this song mean to you and tell us about its origin and revolution!
Thank you so much! I originally wrote it in the middle of covid when there wasn’t much to do and I was kindve fraught with anxiety, as a sort of self-meditation to tune out the noise and have faith in manifesting my maximum slay. There’s a LOT going on in the world and there’s an endless amount of opinions, content, hype, and fear vying for your attention, but focusing on what’s most important to you, your dreams, and your goals will align you with them.
How would you describe your sound? Why do you think people resonate with your music?
Hmm… I’d describe my sound as slaypop and sadbops. Some of my music is very effortless, empowering, and engaging, which is very “slaypop,” but some of my music also has an element of loneliness and perseverance , which is very “sadbop.” I feel like it reflects the human condition to forge your own path and stand on our own two feet while also feeling understood knowing that you’re not alone in your struggle.
Which artist’s music and/or performance, past or present, inspires you today?
TINASHE! She’s literally the complete package giving vocals, choreo, and fashion. I’m really into kpop girl groups lately, like Twice, f(x), Loona, and they loveee Tinashe. I feel like her story, versatility, and dedication speak to the generation of artists.
If you could perform with any music artist, Alive or Dead, who would you choose? And why?
Charli XCX! She invited me to perform with her during her ‘Charli’ tour back in 2020 and I’ve upgraded SOOO much since then… it would be such a full circle moment!
What is the best thing about performing to a live audience? What’s been the career highlight so far?
The ENERGY transfer is insaneee like… After a whole year of virtual covid shows, coming out on the other side to crowds THIRSTY and FIENDING for an experience is definitely the best damn thing. Last year I opened for Doss who I’ve been obsessed with since I was in middle school and performed for my hometown’s first ever pride festival, so that was pretty gaggy.
Finally, a few questions for some quick answers -
FAVOURITE: Album – True Romance by Charli XCX
Artist – Mariah Carey
Movie – Everything Everywhere All at Once! I just watched it last weekend and it changed my life lol
Place to visit – LA (specifically because its just a trip visit away~)
Venue to play – The El Rio in San Francisco
Food – Tortang Talong (Filipino Eggplant Omelette yummmy)
Drink – Iced Matcha with Oat Milk <3
Person in History – Azealia Banks
Tattoo – I don’t have one but the idea of getting a like… rococo tramp stamp sounds sexyy hehe
Have a listen and connect with Marxoxo:
