Los Angeles Lakers Singer Sets Sights on ‘The X Factor’

After winning over a sold out crowd of 19,000 + at The Staples Center, unsigned Recording Artist Marcellus Long shoots for Simon Cowell's 'The X Factor'

Beverly Hills, CA (PRWE March 25, 2011

Simon Cowell took to Twitter and engaged fans with a live Q&A on Tuesday (March 22). His new reality series ‘The X Factor’, has Hollywood buzzing as to what will be expected when the show hits airwaves in September. "We hope to find an artist who can compete with people in the charts,” said Cowell.

Marcellus Long believes he is that artist. Born in Houston, Texas, Marcellus studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music which is home to star-studded alumni such as John Mayer, Quincy Jones and recent Grammy Award-Winning Artist Esperanza Spalding.

While at Berklee, Marcellus began uploading videos onto YouTube, a popular video sharing website. Gaining the attention of The Los Angeles Lakers, Marcellus was asked to open the ceremonies at the Staples Center as the Lakers defeated The Orlando Magic last Monday (March 14th). Performing in front of a 19,000 + crowd, Long belted an electrifying rendition of the National Anthem to a screaming applause. Marcellus’ 'NBA Lakeshow National Anthem’ can be viewed virally on YouTube at the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSpKE1fa7SQ

Today, March 25th, Marcellus announced to his army of Twitter followers, that he would be auditioning for ‘The X Factor’.

As a business savvy performer, Long hopes to set the bar for independent musicians. Last spring, Marcellus released his viral single ‘The Price of Fame' through a partnership with Interscope/Geffen/A&M Records and digital distributor, Tuncecore. Following in the footsteps of artist like Drake, Aretha Franklin and Jay-Z, Long was a part of the same independent platform used to garner underground buzz within the music industry.

However, it looks like Long has opted out of pursuing a recording contract with Interscope Records. “Contrary to what some bloggers have reported, I am in fact not signed to Interscope Records, nor have I ever signed with Universal Music Group or any record label for that matter,” said Marcellus. He then added, “I hold the upmost respect for Interscope Records and Jimmy Iovine.”

With his proclaimed "free agent" status, Long will now turn to Iovine's competitor, Simon Cowell, in pursuit of a five million dollar recording contract.

For more information please visit: http://www.MarcellusLong.com/about
Follow Marcellus on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MarcellusMusic
LIKE Marcellus on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marcellus/41663184135