Singer, songwriter and producer Mark Beling has just released his long awaited second album ‘Can’t Hold You Back’ – once again proving he is one of the finest young songwriters in South Africa, and without a doubt, the master of the big ballad.
An accomplished vocalist and front man for the pop sensation Mean Mr Mustard, Mark’s solo career began in 2005 with the release of his solo debut album ‘Dancing’.
Although ‘Dancing’ was not, in Mark’s opinion, a ‘proper’ album insofar as it was more a collection of existing works, it still secured him a major record deal and instantly set his solo career on the fast track. ‘Dancing’ was well received by the public, if not slightly underrated, but it secured him a spot as one of Johannesburg’s top pop producers, turning his already pumping home studio into a thriving nest of activity for budding South African stars.
Fortunately, Mark’s passion for writing music was not ignored and it wasn’t long before he began working on his second solo album ‘Can’t Hold You Back’.
The result is yet again a collection of heartfelt and emotive songs that platform Mark’s lyrical honesty and song writing brilliance.
Mark’s inspiration is drawn from his daily experiences and singing about love is something he is not afraid to embrace. And indeed, Mark does it with gutso and honesty – taking on all sides to life’s most important aspect. Spending time tinkling on the piano generally steers his song writing in the direction of a ballad, whilst picking up his electric guitar generally always results in a rocky number.
Both genres have been included on ‘Can’t Hold You Back’ and the result is well-crafted, polished songs. Coupled with the immaculate production of Mark’s selective ear, the album boasts a great selection of catchy, radio-friendly hits.
Mark Beling is also known for his powerful vocal range and he has held nothing back on this album, platforming his talents not only as a songwriter and producer but also as a competent musician and incredibly strong singer. When talking about the songs on the album, Mark cites My Summer Is Gone and the title track Can’t Hold You Back as his two personal favourites, songs that feel good to him personally.
Mark has dealt with many personal issues on the album, from love on tracks like The Moment to the death of a friend on Turn Out The Light, all the while never becoming self-indulgent or angsty in his translation. Despite serious messages behind the lyrics, the songs still maintain a listener friendly and accessible appeal that will guarantee him great success with an adult-contemporary market. Mark has also done an interpretation of the Rock ‘n Roll classic Runaway by Del Shannon which is a great party song. A self-confessed lover of ‘cheesy’ music, Mark laughs when he admits that he is a big rock ‘ roll fan. ”Rock and Roll is great cheesy music and it such good stuff!” Other highlight tracks are the impeccable Can’t Hold You Back, Why Go Away and What Was I Thinking.
Marks original band, Mean Mr Mustard still exists but he admits that it’s “under the radar”, focusing mainly on corporate shows. His solo career is his main focus now and he has put together a backing band, ready to start touring with ‘Can’t Hold You Back’.
Producing is something Mark will always be involved with and his current roster is packed with artists such as the rock trio Walt, Pop Idols finalist Jacques Terrblanche and current radio darlings Changing Faces all lined up for a dose of his producing skills.
‘Can’t Hold You Back’ is a powerful second album for Mark. It’s a definite territorial stamp for him as a musician and producer, proving that Mark Beling is here to stay! The album was released in June 2007 by RPM Record Company, a division of Gallo Record Company
Hi there. Will see u later aligator. Hope we make it on time to see u play a bit more than last week, especially want to hear "The moment" -stunning song.
Thanks for the add, long time no see! I hope you are well and the solo side of things are taking off brilliantly for you! Will try to come see a gig soon!
