Marckel Bonds, also known as KELO SOUL, sees video go viral after rapping for J Cole in Norfolk.
NORFOLK, Va. — It’s not every day you get a chance to perform for your idol while trying to expand your career. 13News Now sat down with a local recording artist from Hampton Roads, who got his big shot in front of J Cole just last week.
Marckel Bonds is better known as KELO SOUL in the music industry. Hip hop star J Cole began touring from North Carolina to Virginia, to pop up and visit with fans after the release of his new album.
Bonds said he knew he might have a shot at meeting his idol.
“J Cole dropped the tweet, I was like, I [have got to] know somebody who knows where Cole is, and I made a couple of calls,” he said.
Bonds saw his opportunity to demonstrate his lyricism in front of Cole at the Waterside District in Norfolk. Nerves set in, but Bonds said his adrenaline carried the moment.
“I was nervous, but I felt prepared. I knew I was ready,” said Bonds.
J Cole responded, “You’re a talented man.” With the stamp of approval from a role model, Bonds said he was in shock.
“He was talking about… ‘you just rapped for J Cole, bro.’ Just take that in, so it means a lot. I think I’ve been able to sit with them, I’m trying to stay present, that’s been one of my favorite artists, somebody who’s highly respected in the field, that I love,” said Bonds.
It was a few minute connections that he will remember forever.
“It means a lot to Cole to show love to someone like me, because he didn’t have to listen at all,” said Bonds.
The video of the interaction has been blowing up on social media, and Bonds said he’s grateful for the exposure.
“It’s been a little overwhelming, but I appreciate it. I’ve seen a lot of people feel inspired, or feel like Virginia’s time is now, even more than they already felt,” said Bonds.
Bonds believes there is hidden talent all over the 757, waiting for their shot to put Hampton Roads on the map.
“Community festivals and things like that are popping up, there are opportunities in Virginia, and I think we have to continue to empower them, and just show people where they can go,” said Bonds.
KELO SOUL is releasing new music next Saturday, February 28. It will be a seven-track EP project, and he plans to have a celebration at the Selden Market in Norfolk. He hopes other artists and people come out to support the event, which will be centered on music and Black History Month.
The title of his project is “Everything I Could Find,” and he hopes to continue to help elevate other creatives in Virginia through his brand, Coffee Black, and his music.