Marc Martel, born on November 16, 1976, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a renowned singer, musician, and songwriter.
He is best known for his remarkable vocal resemblance to the late Freddie Mercury of Queen, which has earned him global recognition.
Martel’s talent and career span various musical projects, from his work in the Christian rock band Downhere to his role in recreating Mercury’s iconic vocals for Queen-related projects.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Background:
Marc Martel grew up in a Christian family in Montreal, where his father was a pastor.
He showed an early interest in music, learning piano and later developing his vocal talent.
Education:
Martel attended Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, where he met his future bandmates and began his professional musical journey.
Career Highlights:
1. Downhere (1999–2012)
Martel co-founded Downhere, a Christian rock band, with college friends in 1999.
The band gained popularity in the Christian music scene, releasing multiple albums and winning several awards, including:
Dove Awards for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year.
After more than a decade of success, the band went on hiatus in 2012.
2. The Queen Extravaganza (2011–2017)
In 2011, Martel auditioned for The Queen Extravaganza, a tribute project organized by Queen’s drummer, Roger Taylor.
His audition video, where he sang “Somebody to Love,” went viral, amassing millions of views and earning him the role of lead vocalist.
Martel toured globally with The Queen Extravaganza, gaining acclaim for his uncanny ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s voice.
3. The Ultimate Queen Celebration (2017–Present)
Following his time with The Queen Extravaganza, Martel launched his own Queen tribute show, The Ultimate Queen Celebration, where he continues to perform Queen’s greatest hits.
4. Contribution to Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Martel’s voice was used alongside archival recordings of Freddie Mercury to recreate Mercury’s vocals in the Oscar-winning biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
This contribution solidified Martel’s reputation as one of the most authentic interpreters of Mercury’s voice.
5. Solo Career
Martel has released solo albums showcasing his range as an artist beyond Queen tributes, including:
Impersonator (2014)
The Silent Night EP (2016)
Thunderbolt and Lightning (2018), a Queen cover album.
Musical Style and Legacy
Vocal Talent:
Martel’s voice is frequently compared to Freddie Mercury’s due to its range, power, and tone.
He is known for effortlessly transitioning between genres, blending rock, classical, and contemporary styles.
Versatility:
While much of his fame is tied to his work with Queen’s music, Martel has demonstrated a broader range through his original compositions and Christian music background.
Personal Life
Faith and Values:
Martel remains deeply connected to his Christian faith, which influences his personal and professional life.
Family:
He is married to Crystal Koster, and the couple resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
Awards and Recognition
Dove Awards with Downhere.
Global acclaim for his role in Queen tribute projects and Bohemian Rhapsody.
Recognition for his viral audition video, which remains a defining moment in his career.
Legacy
Marc Martel has carved a unique niche in the music world by bridging the gap between tribute performances and original artistry. His ability to channel Freddie Mercury’s legendary voice while maintaining his individuality has made him a standout figure in both rock and Christian music scenes. Martel’s contributions to preserving Queen’s legacy, coupled with his impressive solo work, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.