Fort Cavazos Soldier’s Indie Pop Song Wins Top Honor in International Competition

The inspiration for Forever struck during an overseas rotation, as the soldier found himself separated from those he deeply loved.

“All I could think about was being with them again,” Marcus said. “The words poured out so naturally. It’s a song about longing, connection, and the idea that no matter how far apart two people are, love knows no distance.”

Originally rooted in rap and R&B, the soldier found a surprising new home in Indie Pop. The project helped him unlock a deeper emotional connection to his music.

“I used to create what I thought people wanted to hear. With Forever, I let myself feel everything,” Marcus explained. “One line I changed was, ‘My heart ain’t meant to be played with like clowns.’ It didn’t feel right. I changed it to, ‘My heart ain’t meant to be played with like that.’ Small edit, big difference—it felt more honest.”

When asked what prompted him to submit the song to the Byways competition, he said it came down to a simple moment of courage.

“I saw the email and thought, ‘Why not?’ I had nothing to lose and everything to gain. Winning was just the icing on the cake,” Marcus said.

A largely self-taught musician, he credits YouTube tutorials and the guidance of mentor Elijah Fontenault for helping him develop his skills.

“Elijah saw potential in me early on and taught me more about music than I ever expected,” Marcus said. “We built a strong friendship through that.”

After serving five years as a 19D Cavalry Scout, including numerous rotations and missions, he transitioned out of the Army to spend more time with family. Now a full-time student at Central Texas College, he is pursuing a degree in Mental Health/Social Work, with plans to return to Texas to complete his education.

Despite currently living in New England, his connection to Central Texas remains strong.

“Central Texas College and Fort Cavazos shaped a big part of who I am,” Marcus said. “Flying down to Texas to be part of (the awards ceremony) meant the world to me. I’m incredibly proud of everyone who shared their work—it takes courage to put your art out there.”

Listen to “Forever” on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2NItQIlI2-A?si=lBQamcEPfhQX5GdI