“Breaking Free” is a pop-rock anthem born out of collaboration between lyricist Marc Cage and musician Alan Burke, known as Rocky Mountain. With Marc crafting the lyrics and Rocky shaping the music, the track blends storytelling with driving melodies to create a song that resonates with energy and emotion.

In this interview, we dive deeper into the creative process behind “Breaking Free”, explore the partnership between Marc and Rocky, and get a glimpse into what inspires their music and future projects.

Where are you from?
I am from the United States and I currently live in Bowie, Maryland. I was born in Livingston New Jersey. I lived there until 2016 and then I relocated to Maryland.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?
Radiohead, Kate Bush, Bjork to name a few.

Tell me about how your creation part begins, and how is your workflow.
For the creative process, it comes from an idea that comes in my head. That idea can come from whatever happened in my life, what I watched on TV or documentary, from video game, you name it. I jot the idea down (Usually typing it up on my notes app on my iphone) and then I just brainstorm from there with the lyric process.

Where do you find inspiration?
Anything really. Majority of the lyrics come from real life experiences. A lot of the songs such as “Breaking Free” especially when looking at the lyrics, come from the events that have happened at the place that I work and the family life, dealing with individuals who aren’t the most pleasant to be around.

When is your favorite time of day to create your music?
Incredibly late nights on the weekends. Usually it’s very quiet for me at this time as there aren’t too many annoying distractions.

Describe how art is essential to society nowadays
I believe art is great for expressing your emotions, especially when its difficult to put them into words. Regardless of what medium of art one partakes in, whether it is painting, music, etc, I look at art as a way coping with experiences and its very therapeutic.

What motivates you to create?
Events (whether exciting or traumatic), something trivial such as hearing a statement that someone made and it’s constantly in my head that I have to write something based on it.
Alan Burke (Rocky Mountain) has been very instrumental with helping me become better at my writing. He is the one that created the music/melody for “Breaking Free” so most of the credit has to go to him!

How do you define success as a music artist?
Staying true and standing firmly on your own creative vision and making the work resonate and inspires others.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?
It’s therapeutic for sure. I’m finding that over years that the writing improves my self-esteem, building more confidence and such.

How do you develop your art skills?
Practice, Practice Practice! Write as much as possible. Blocking out any distractions (both internal and external). Read anything that contains tips on how to improve your craft. Anything that comes to mind I write it down and I just let er rip with the writing. Also I find that partnering with other songwriters (or even the aspiring ones) has been very useful. Sometimes you need another perspective when it comes collabs and I found that working with Rocky Mountain (Alan Burke), I got to learn how I should better “fine-tune” my lyrics.

What is your next move?
I have been collaborating with another songwriter by the name of Rocky Mountain. His name is Alan Burke. I mostly work on the lyrics and he works on the music/vocal melody. We are currently releasing music on streaming services (Ex: spotify, apple music, etc.) in the hopes that we can pitch to recording artists so they can record it. Any other offers, we keep a close eye on those and we pitch to those as well. Basically just trying to make it in this industry despite its challenges.

Where will we see you in 5 years?
Who knows? I mean, I’m definitely trying to get GTFO of the place I’m currently employed and do this songwriting/lyricist thing full-time. You’ll see me in 5 years as a popular lyricist! Who knows?

“Breaking Free” marks just one step in the musical journey of Marc Cage and Rocky Mountain. Their collaboration shows how powerful storytelling and melody can be when they come together with passion and purpose.

To keep up with their latest projects, new releases, and behind-the-scenes moments, be sure to follow them on social media. Supporting independent artists like Marc and Rocky helps their music reach more people — and ensures that unique voices continue to break through. Stay connected, stream their songs, and be part of their growing journey.