Marcus King, a name synonymous with modern blues rock brilliance, has captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional guitar skills and soulful voice. Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, this fourth-generation musician launched The Marcus King Band in 2013 and has since solidified his place as a leading figure in contemporary music. Still in his twenties, King’s discography is rich with compelling songs that showcase his artistry.
Here’s a countdown of the top 10 Marcus King Songs that every fan should know.
10. Beautiful Stranger
“Beautiful Stranger,” a standout track from his 2020 album El Dorado, is a soulful exploration of love and longing. Co-written with the acclaimed Dan Auerbach and Paul Overstreet, this song blends classic soul elements with King’s signature bluesy touch. The lyrics depict a heartfelt search for connection, resonating with anyone who has experienced the yearning for love. The smooth melodies and King’s emotive vocals make “Beautiful Stranger” a compelling entry point into his diverse musical landscape.
9. I Won’t Be Here
From his early album Soul Insight released in 2014 when he was just 19, “I Won’t Be Here” reveals a young artist grappling with heartbreak. This raw and emotional track showcases King’s songwriting maturity even at a young age. The song’s vulnerability, combined with his powerful vocal delivery, highlights the depth of emotion King can convey. “I Won’t Be Here” is a testament to his ability to channel personal experiences into universally relatable music.
8. Radio Soldier
“Radio Soldier,” a highlight from the 2016 self-titled album Marcus King Band, produced by the legendary Warren Haynes, is a dynamic track that showcases King’s band’s instrumental prowess. The song’s driving rhythm and King’s soaring guitar work create an energetic and captivating listening experience. “Radio Soldier” exemplifies the band’s tight musicianship and King’s ability to craft songs that are both musically complex and instantly engaging.
7. Ain’t Nothing Wrong With That
Also featured on Marcus King Band, “Ain’t Nothing Wrong With That” exudes a retro vibe, heavily influenced by Warren Haynes, particularly evident in its soulful horn arrangements. This track is a celebration of classic sounds with a modern twist. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody, punctuated by the rich horn section, make it a feel-good anthem that showcases King’s versatility and appreciation for musical history.
6. Jealous Man
“Jealous Man,” another gem from the Marcus King Band album released in 2016, delves into the tumultuous emotions of jealousy within a relationship. King’s passionate vocals deliver the poignant lyrics, “I am a jealous man trying to hold on to that good thing, no, but it’s killing me inside,” with raw intensity. This track is a powerful exploration of vulnerability and internal conflict, further establishing King’s songwriting depth and vocal range.
5. Side Door
“Side Door,” from his 2018 album Carolina Confessions, explores themes of separation and longing in a relationship. The evocative lyrics, “Darlin’, leave your side door open and I’ll be there as your sunset turns to night,” paint a picture of yearning and hope amidst distance. This song highlights King’s ability to craft intimate and poetic narratives within his music, blending soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling.
4. Rita Is Gone
“Rita Is Gone,” another standout soul-infused track from Marcus King Band, truly comes alive in live performances. Its dynamic energy and infectious rhythm make it a crowd-favorite. As showcased in a memorable Jam in the Van session, the song’s improvisational nature and King’s electrifying stage presence transform it into an unforgettable musical experience.
3. One Day She’s Here
“One Day She’s Here,” a highlight from 2020’s El Dorado, is a retro-inspired tune that evokes the sounds of the 1970s. Complete with a David Lynch-influenced music video, this track is a sonic and visual throwback. The song’s vintage production and King’s soulful delivery create a nostalgic and captivating atmosphere, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend classic influences with his contemporary style.
2. The Well
“The Well,” a rock anthem from El Dorado, stands as one of Marcus King’s most popular tracks. The evident influence of Dan Auerbach, who co-wrote the song with King and Ronnie Bowman, is palpable. This high-energy rocker features powerful vocals and blistering guitar riffs, making it a standout in King’s discography and a fan favorite at his concerts.
1. Goodbye Carolina
Topping the list is “Goodbye Carolina,” featured on 2018’s Carolina Confessions. This deeply emotional track is particularly poignant as King wrote it from the perspective of a close friend who tragically committed suicide. The song’s raw honesty and vulnerability, combined with King’s heartfelt delivery, make it a powerful and moving listening experience. “Goodbye Carolina” is a testament to King’s songwriting depth and his ability to address profound themes with sensitivity and musical artistry, solidifying its place as his best song to date.
