Malen Blackmon

Malen “Mars” Blackmon has been a contributor to the Observer since 2019. Entrenched in Southern California’s music and culture at an early age, he wrote and recorded music until he realized he wasn’t cut out for the music industry and turned to journalism. He enjoys driving slowly, going to cannabis conventions and thinking he can make sweatpants look good with any outfit.
Latest Stories
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3 months ago | Dallas Observer Music Awards
Since the earlier part of the century, the sound of saxophones and soul-heavy vocals have been heard coming out of Deep Ellum bars. In the history of Dallas’ music scene, funk and R&B have always enjoyed a prominent position. The nominees for ...
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3 months ago | DFW Music News
November was a quiet month for new music releases, but we did get a few surprise singles and albums from some of our favorite local acts. Country singer Bill Brimer’s debut album and Bobby Sessions popping up on Statik Selektah’s new album were ju...
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4 months ago | DFW Music News
Now that we have time to think of things other than the presidential election, let us return to what really matters: new music. North Texas artists continue smacking us with hard-slapping greatness. Here are the best new releases. "Str8 Jacki...
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5 months ago | DFW Music News
The pandemic may be throwing endless hurdles at the live music industry, but local artists remain as committed (and inspired) as ever to releasing original music. Here are the best new releases by North Texas artists. Kaash Paige, "London" (Music ...
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5 months ago | Arts & Culture News
The curators behind Vibes Texas, a Dallas-based arts collective, have spent the last two years throwing epic underground art mixers for Dallas artists on a monthly basis. That was until COVID-19 put a pause on extra-curricular activities. But Romi...
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6 months ago | Things To Do
Sometimes when you're stressed, a 20-minute mediation session or power-drinking night out will just not cut it. Nowadays, power-drinking nights out are depressing nights in with a “safe” number of friends while you practice social distancing and t...