4 minute read
Aussie rapper working overtime on the Peninsula
Marlon Bereux, known professionally as 24/8, is an Australian rapper who’s made a remarkable comeback after suffering a traumatic brain injury. He speaks to Sarah Halfpenny about how he's bringing a unique blend of Aussie spirit and American hip-hop to the Mornington Peninsula.
What is the significance of the name 24/8?
The name came from the overwhelming feeling of needing to work harder at my skills than most due to my brain injury. Working what felt like 24 hours a day, eight days a week. Therefore 24/8. After sitting on the name for a few days I realised that Kobe Bryant wore those numbers and was sold on it, as I look up to him and his work ethic so much.
How did music become your therapy during recovery from a traumatic brain injury?
After my brain injury I was very limited in what I could do. I couldn’t work and was mostly confined to my bed or house. Re-finding my passion for rap was the best therapy I didn’t know I needed. It was the only time I didn’t feel like I was trapped.
Your family has a musical background. How has this influenced your journey as a rapper?
Ever since I can remember I have always been around musicians, as my both my parents were in bands. They introduced me to such a wide variety of music, which I tap into when making my songs. The best thing about having musicians as parents is they will never think it’s a wasted career.
Tell us about your upcoming EP, 8Ville.
I started writing the EP when I was going through some turmoil. I was in a pretty dark place with some pretty dark thoughts. When I get like that I tend to go into this headspace where writing is my only vice. The idea behind it was 8Ville is the space where I go to write. It’s my sanctuary, my comfort zone and my very own kingdom. It’s the place I feel anything is possible.
You've collaborated with some big names in hip-hop. How did these collaborations come about, and what have you learnt from working with artists such as Bizarre of D12?
Most of the rappers I collaborated with are from America, and I connected with them online. I have made friendships along the way with a lot of them, which has opened up some great opportunities. As far as working with Bizarre from D12, an opportunity arose to have him on a track, which I immediately took. What I learnt from him was how fast his turnaround time was and that showed me that’s where my standard needed to be.
Australian hip-hop has a unique flavour. How do you incorporate your ‘Aussie larrikin spirit’ into your music while still paying homage to American hip-hop influences?
My rap style has always appealed more to Americans, but having an Aussie background naturally comes with a sense of cheeky banter. I like to embrace lightheartedness every now and then, as my songs tend to lean towards serious subjects and can feel a little dark.
Has the Mornington Peninsula shaped your musical style and career?
I moved to Rye in May 2022. I had visited the Peninsula a few times over the years and just fell in love with the scenery and the beaches. When the opportunity arose to move down here, I took it and haven’t looked back since. Everyone down here has welcomed me with open arms and I’m so grateful for the music community. The Ninch has given me a freedom of creativity that I have never felt before. It is one of the only places that I’ve met musicians as driven and passionate as I am, and having those people that I can bounce ideas off and collaborate with has been a godsend. What can fans expect from your live performances, and do you have any Peninsula shows planned?
At this stage I am recovering from another concussion so my plan is to throw myself into my rehab and self-care, with future shows to be announced. Don’t worry, I still have a massive line-up of singles to be released.
