Seattle has long been known for its unique sound and undeniable talent, and one name that stands tall in the city’s independent hip-hop scene is Maribased1. If you haven’t heard of him yet, you’re missing out on a movement that’s redefining the sound of the Pacific Northwest.
Born and raised in West Seattle, Maribased1’s journey into music wasn’t planned. Sports were his first love—basketball, football, and baseball dominated his early years. But life had other plans. A knee injury sidelined his athletic aspirations, leading him to discover a new passion: music. With an iMac and GarageBand, what started as an attempt to produce beats quickly turned into a full-fledged rap career. By 2016, with the support of his father, Mr. Benjamin, he took his craft seriously, setting the stage for an independent grind that few could match.
Since then, Maribased1 has been making history, becoming the first independent Seattle rapper to be aired on BET Jams and MTV Base Africa. His music isn’t just local; it’s global. From his hit song “Seattle Got That Fire” playing in stadiums like Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park to international records like “Talk Talk Talk” featuring Yung6ix, he’s proving that Seattle Music Is Real.
But it hasn’t been easy. Overcoming a major injury was one of his toughest battles, but that struggle fueled his drive. His music reflects that resilience, blending real-life experiences with a signature auto-tuned sound inspired by legends like Lil Wayne and E-40. Speaking of E-40, he’s at the top of Maribased1’s collaboration wish list—because bridging the gap between generations is part of his vision.
His biggest achievements? Thirteen out of his seventeen music videos have aired on BET Jams, he’s won multiple awards, and his Seattle Music Is Real platform is giving local artists a voice. His clothing brand, S.M.I.R.E.D 1974 Edition, is another testament to his entrepreneurial hustle. You can check it out at the link below.
His creative process is as raw as his journey. He finds beats, catches a vibe, and lets the music speak to him. Writing isn’t forced; it happens when the moment feels right. That authenticity is what keeps his fans locked in.
Right now, you can stream his latest deluxe project, “48 OUNCEZ (POWERED UP),” featuring hits like “Seattle Got That Fire,” “Big Body Hummer,” and “Talk Talk Talk.” Keep an eye out for upcoming visuals for “Number” (feat. Stakk Wittz), “Slide” (feat. JWAVY), and “Paolo (Big Flexer).”
For Maribased1, a day in his life is about hustle, music, and balance. Whether he’s in meetings, rehearsing, or in the studio, he makes sure to carve out time for some gaming to recharge.
Seattle’s music scene isn’t just alive—it’s thriving. And Maribased1 is leading the charge. Tap into the movement and follow him at the links below.
Seattle Music Is Real. This ain’t a game—it’s a movement!
Links:
Website: SeaMusicIsReal.com
Instagram: @Maribased1Official
Clothing Brand: Seattle Music Is Real Store
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