Today we’d like to introduce you to Marquis Lofton.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Sure. I grew up in the DMV area, where Go-Go music and radio really shaped me. There was always music in the house—I played trumpet in high school, had a piano at home, started a rap group, joined a Go-Go band, and became a DJ in my junior year. Radio—especially stations like Cathy Hughes’ WOL in D.C.—was where I first fell in love with the idea of sharing music with a wider audience.
I went on to attend Clark Atlanta University during what’s often called the Atlanta Renaissance. While I was there, I landed a job as Production Assistant at Jazz 91.9 WCLK and co-founded 98.1 WSTU, the first student-run station in the AUC. I also gained media experience interning at Cartoon Network, Fox Sports and V-103/ WAOK, and recieved hands-on studio experience under Keys (now Timothy Bloom) as an intern at Studio 43, Wale’s first label.
Atlanta’s creative scene embraced me, and I began producing music with WCLK radio host, Jamal Ahmad as The DangerFeel Newbies. Our work has been featured by NPR, BET’s Being Mary Jane, and we’ve released music internationally through London’s Defected Records and Tokyo’s Sweet Soul Records. We’re currently working on our fourth project, Sonic Salve.
In 2018, I left 91.9 WCLK as interim Program Director and moved to Houston to program 91.3 KPVU at Prairie View A&M University. It’s been incredibly rewarding—especially mentoring students, building programming, and connecting with Houston’s vibrant creative scene. In 2024, I joined a Blues/ Alternative Rock band called The Rolling Sevens as a synth player, which has allowed me to explore a new layer of live performance and collaboration. The energy here reminds me of Atlanta in its early days—I really believe another renaissance is on the horizon in Houston, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Moving from Atlanta to Houston wasn’t easy because most of my support system is there, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Alcoholism runs in my family and I had a problem myself and being a DJ, it’s around like water, but being out here alone made me look at myself and ask “What can I do to level up? How can I change?” Drinking was making me feel terrible. So, I quit drinking in 2020. Got a therapist and starting getting to the root of everything. So, I learned to keep up internally and I’m gaining a great support system here.
Also, my mentor, the late John Hughes, then the General Manager of 91.3 KPVU suddenly passed away. He hired me from Atlanta to come to Houston to work at PVAMU. We spent a great amount of time at 91.3 KPVU.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What do you do?
I’m a Creative Media Specialist. That means I work across multiple platforms—radio, TV, music, voiceovers, DJing, and social media—to bring ideas to life through sound and storytelling. Whether I’m producing a podcast, recording a radio commercial, or performing live, creativity is always the driving force.
What do you specialize in?
I specialize in audio production and music. I’m a DJ, producer, and songwriter, and one half of the urban alternative duo The DangerFeel Newbies. We blend soul, funk, jazz, hip hop, and dance music into something that feels both classic and forward-thinking. I also work in radio—hosting shows, producing content, and mentoring students in media.
What are you known for?
People know me for my versatility and authenticity. Our debut album Harriet was critically acclaimed, featured on NPR Music’s Heavy Rotation, and landed placements on BET’s Being Mary Jane. We’ve had music distributed internationally—from Tokyo’s Sweet Soul Records to London’s Defected Records. As a DJ and performer, I’ve shared stages with acts like Loose Ends and Con Funk Shun, and I’m proud of how we’ve merged traditional musicianship with modern production.
What are you most proud of?
While I’m proud of our music’s global reach and the accolades we’ve received, what means the most to me is working with students at Prairie View A&M University. Seeing them become more confident, creative, and engaged in media reminds me why I do what I do. That impact is lasting. I’m proud of the work we are doing at 91.3 KPVU
What sets you apart from others?
I stay a student. I’m not afraid to say, “I don’t know,” and I’m always willing to learn. I think flexibility, openness to collaboration, and the ability to keep evolving are key in this industry. Also—reading. It sharpens my perspective and helps me bring depth to my creative work. A lot of people overlook that.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happy is learning. I enjoy learning something new. Adding more tools to the toolbox. I’m also happy that I kicked my addiction, alcohol. I’ve been more happier than I’ve ever been and am more present in the moment. Family, genuine relationships & creative collaboration make me happy. The beach makes me happy. Direct deposit makes me happy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmarkangel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1JRtcgNPXo/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquis-k-lofton-b5118841
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCPlIxoF47azc9TceUlPngWw
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/MarkAngelKPVU
Image Credits
The professional headshot was shot by Tony Clomax
