Marques Houston

YOU know Marques Houston from his tenure with the Rhythm and Blues (R&B) group Immature, which later evolved into IMX. You also know and recognise him from his cameo, guest appearances or starring roles in films such as House Party III, Down to the Last Minute, Good Burger and Bebe Kid's. And the multi-faceted Houston also has a number of television credits under his belt. He has appeared and starred in American Dreams, Sister Sister, Family Matters, the Parenthood, All That, Cousin Skeeter as well as A Different World.

Well Houston who turned 22 years- old on August 4, is preparing for the release of his solo debut album. The album, which is almost complete, will be on the TUG Entertainment imprint.

According to Houston, the album won't be too different from what he has done before.

"The difference is that this album is more about my own personal feelings and situations that I have been in", Houston told this writer in an interview recently.

The singer/songwriter/producer displays vocal maturity on the album's lead single Clubbin, a funky groove flavored throw down which was produced by R Kelly. Others who worked on the album (it's due for release on September 2) include Kenny Whitehead, rapper Mila J, Troy Taylor and his manager Chris Stokes.

Marques said that the decision to do a solo album came about when he was working with fellow Immature/IMX members Romeo and LDB on IMX's 2001 self-titled album.

"It all fell into place and I told Chris (Stokes) that I wanted to show the world what we could do. He asked me if I was absolutely sure that I was positive on the matter. I told him yes, I was ready to do this", said Houston. He added, "Even though I am stepping out to do something on my own, I am still a part of IMX".

He even hinted of a possible IMX reunion, but couldn't state exactly when this would materialize. "There will most definitely be an IMX reunion but I can't say for sure when the date will be", said Houston.

Immature shot onto the charts in 1994 with hits like the top 10 gold singles Constantly and Never Lie. When the group evolved as IMX, they continued to spew hits, with songs including Stay The Night.

Houston is a part of the production team Platinum Status, which worked on B2K's sophomore album Pandemonium!

His involvement with B2K predates the release of the group's 2001 debut album, since two of its members Omarion and J-Boog are related to him. Omarion is his younger brother, while J-Boog is his cousin.

Marques sites Michael Jackson as his primary musical influence.

"Everyone knows that my greatest influence has been Michael Jackson, basically because of his musical genius and abilities. In terms of skills as an artiste, I would like to be on par with him", Houston stated.

Houston visited Jamaica earlier this year for a Spring Break concert series in Montego Bay. He said it was his first time to the island and he enjoyed his stay here. Asked if he had any interest in doing something in Reggae, he said: "I actually love Reggae music. Right now I am digging Sean Paul and Wayne Wonder. I definitely have some interest in doing something".

His latest acting project was the film You Got Served that was directed by Chris Stokes. The film is due out early next year, and it features members of B2K as well as Steve Harvey. Asked what it was like working with a veteran such as Harvey, Houston said, "He was fun, and he had a good vibe".

Houston is currently performing on the North American edition of the Scream III Tour, which also features Mario and B2K.

At one time, he was involved with Destiny's Child lead singer Beyonce Knowles. Houston said that his ideal partner would have to be someone who is interested in him for him and nothing else.

"She should be interested in me for me. She should be someone I can trust, someone I can be friends with and lovers with".

Houston, who is also known by the moniker Batman, will showcase his songwriting and production talents with the release of his album MH.

"My aim has always been to make a difference in someone's life, and my greatest joy has always been knowing that a song I wrote or sung touched someone else. I felt really passionate about making this record and now I want everyone to feel it".

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