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{{short description|American rapper}}
{{Short description|American rapper (born 1991)}}


{{Infobox musical artist
{{Infobox musical artist
| name            = Mark Battles
| name            = Mark Battles
| image          =
| image          =
| caption        = Battles shooting the "Let em know" music video
| caption        =
| birth_name      = Mark Anthony Battles
| birth_name      = Mark Anthony Battles
| birth_date      = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1991|9|2}}
| birth_date      = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1991|9|2}}
| birth_place    = [[Indianapolis]], [[Indiana]], U.S.
| birth_place    = [[Indianapolis]], [[Indiana]], U.S.
| occupation      = songwriter, Producer  Rapper
| occupation      = {{hlist|Rapper|songwriter|entrepreneur|record producer}}
| years_active    = 2011–present
| years_active    = 2011–present
| website        = {{URL|https://www.markbattlesmusic.com}}
| website        =
| instrument      = Vocals
| instrument      = Vocals
| genre          = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| genre          = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| label          = {{flatlist|
| label          = Independent
* Fly America / After the platinum
}}
| associated_acts = {{hlist|
| associated_acts = {{hlist|
[[Tory Lanez]]|[[Los (rapper)|King Los]]|[[French Montana]]| [[Dorian (rapper)|DORIAN]]| [[Kid Ink]]| [[Dizzy Wright]]|[[Wale (rapper)|Wale]]| [[Futuristic (rapper)|Futuristic]]| [[Curren$y]]|[[Locksmith (rapper)|Locksmith]]}}
[[Tory Lanez]]|[[Los (rapper)|King Los]]|[[French Montana]]|[[Dorian (rapper)|DORIAN]]|[[Kid Ink]]|[[Dizzy Wright]]|[[Wale (rapper)|Wale]]|[[Futuristic (rapper)|Futuristic]]|[[Curren$y]]|[[Locksmith (rapper)|Locksmith]]}}
}}
}}


'''Mark Anthony Battles''' (born September 2, 1991) is an American [[rapper]], [[songwriter]], [[entrepreneur]] and [[Record producer|producer]] from [[Indianapolis, Indiana]]. Battles is the founder of Fly America, an independent hip hop record label.<ref name="indystar">{{cite web|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/music/2016/09/14/mark-battles-indianapolis-rapper-dizzy-wright-artium-fly-america-pike-threes/90259452/ |title=Meet Mark Battles, the rapper who's ready to come home |last=Lindquist |first=David |date=2016-09-14 |publisher=[[Indy Star]] }}</ref>
'''Mark Anthony Battles''' (born September 2, 1991) is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer from [[Indianapolis]], [[Indiana]].<ref name="thesource">{{cite web|url=https://thesource.com/2021/10/19/5-hip-hop-artists-that-broke-the-mental-health-stigma/ |title=5 Hip-Hop Artists That Broke The Mental Health Stigma |last=Grant |first=Shawn |date=2021-10-19 |publisher=[[The Source (magazine)|The Source]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/5-influential-rappers-that-broke-the-mental-health_us_57896a66e4b0e7c873500ec7 |title=5 Influential Rappers That Broke The Mental Health Stigma |last= |first= |date=2016-07-27 |work=[[HuffPost]] }}</ref>


In 2012, Battles released his first mixtape ''Walking Distance'' and gained online recognition for his song "Last Night", which placed second on [[MTVu]] and was later remixed by [[Kid Ink]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/videos/mark-battles/819542/last-night.jhtml |title=Mark Battles "Last Night" |last= |first= |date=2012-07-26 |publisher=[[MTV]] }}</ref> He has worked closely with [[Wale (rapper)|Wale]], [[Dizzy Wright]], [[French Montana]] and [[Kevin Gates]], overall releasing a dozen mixtapes including a collaboration project with [[Tory Lanez]] and [[King Los]], surpassing a million digital downloads.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26828/title.king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-release-date-cover-art-download-mixtape-stream |title=King Los & Mark Battles "Broken Silence" Release Date, Cover Art, Download & Mixtape Stream |last=Baker |first=Soren |date=2013-12-30 |publisher=[[HipHopDX]] |access-date=2014-01-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113005509/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26828/title.king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-release-date-cover-art-download-mixtape-stream |archive-date=2015-01-13 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vibe.com/article/premiere-mark-battles-feat-french-montana-and-derek-luh-cant-stand-us |title=Premiere: Mark Battles Feat. French Montana And Derek Luh 'Cant Stand Us  |last= |first= |date=2013-10-17 |publisher=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://respect-mag.com/new-mixtape-king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence/ |title=New Mixtape: King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence |last=Griffen |first=Sam |date=2013-12-30 |publisher=[[Respect. (magazine)|Respect. Magazine]] }}</ref>
In 2011, Battles released his first project ''Good Morning America'' and gained recognition for his single ''Last Night'', after placing second on MTVu and being remixed by [[Kid Ink]].<ref name="Billboard biography">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/biography |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826171130/http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/biography |url-status=dead |archive-date=2016-08-26 |title=Mark Battles: Billboard Chart History |last= |first= |date=2016-05-17 |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/videos/mark-battles/819542/last-night.jhtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140427122413/http://www.mtv.com/videos/mark-battles/819542/last-night.jhtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 27, 2014 |title=Mark Battles "Last Night" |last= |first= |date=2012-07-26 |publisher=[[MTV]] }}</ref> In 2015, Battles released his debut studio album ''Numb'', which peaked in Billboard's Top Hip-Hop/R&B charts followed by a second album in 2016 called ''Before The Deal'', peaking at #15 on the Heatseekers chart.<ref name="Billboard">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160813145229/http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart |url-status=dead |archive-date=2016-08-13 |title=Mark Battles: Billboard Chart History |last= |first= |date=2016-05-17 |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] }}</ref> Battles has released numerous projects and collaborations with [[Dizzy Wright]], [[French Montana]], [[Ab-Soul]], [[Kevin Gates]], [[Curren$y]], and [[Tory Lanez]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26828/title.king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-release-date-cover-art-download-mixtape-stream |title=King Los & Mark Battles "Broken Silence" Release Date, Cover Art, Download & Mixtape Stream |last=Baker |first=Soren |date=2013-12-30 |publisher=[[HipHopDX]] |access-date=2014-01-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113005509/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26828/title.king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-release-date-cover-art-download-mixtape-stream |archive-date=2015-01-13 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vibe.com/article/premiere-mark-battles-feat-french-montana-and-derek-luh-cant-stand-us |title=Premiere: Mark Battles Feat. French Montana And Derek Luh 'Cant Stand Us  |last= |first= |date=2013-10-17 |publisher=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://respect-mag.com/new-mixtape-king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence/ |title=New Mixtape: King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence |last=Griffen |first=Sam |date=2013-12-30 |publisher=[[Respect. (magazine)|Respect. Magazine]] }}</ref>


In October 2015, Battles released his first independent album ''Numb'', which peaked at #25 on the ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' Top R&B/Hip-Hop and Heatseeker charts.<ref name="Billboard">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart |title=Mark Battles: Billboard Chart History |last= |first= |date=2016-05-17 |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] }}</ref> In 2016, Battles was named alongside [[Kendrick Lamar]] and [[YG (rapper)|YG]] in ''5 Influential Rappers On Mental Health Stigma'' by [[The Huffington Post]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/5-influential-rappers-that-broke-the-mental-health_us_57896a66e4b0e7c873500ec7 |title=5 Influential Rappers That Broke The Mental Health Stigma |last= |first= |date=2016-07-27 |work=[[The Huffington Post]] }}</ref> In 2017 Battles released a project titled “Day 2” which featured artists such as Brittani Jenae and Tory Lanez. The following year in 2018, Battles released a project titled “Vasi World” that he admits was not his best effort despite overwhelming positive feedback.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}} Most recently he has released a project titled “Fortunate” which consists of zero features{{Clarify|date=April 2021}} and his second most commercially successful song, “Numb.”
Since 2017, Battles has been mentored and managed as an independent artist by music executive Coach K of [[Quality Control Music]].<ref name="dinipodcast">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29oGm8uMbW8 |title=The Mark Battles & Joey Florez Interview - Vigilantes Radio Live! on iHeartRadio |last= |first= |date=2023-06-20 |publisher=[[iHeartRadio]] }}</ref> Collectively, Battles has amassed more than 50 million streams on digital platforms such as Spotify and YouTube Music, touring periodically across America, making him one of the most commercially successful rappers from Indianapolis.<ref name="indystar">{{cite web|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/music/2016/09/14/mark-battles-indianapolis-rapper-dizzy-wright-artium-fly-america-pike-threes/90259452/ |title=Meet Mark Battles, the rapper who's ready to come home |last=Lindquist |first=David |date=2016-09-14 |publisher=[[Indy Star]] }}</ref>


== Early life ==
== Early life ==


Mark Anthony Battles was born on September 2, 1991 in [[Indianapolis]], [[Indiana]]. His mother is Chiffonda Ducking. He has 2 brothers named Anthony and Carl, and one sister.<ref name="wthr" /> Battles and his siblings were raised in the urban, poor communities of Indianapolis, having lived in several homeless shelters during the early part of his childhood. However, it wasn't until he began high school that things got a bit better for his mother.
Battles was born on September 2, 1991, in [[Indianapolis]]. His mother is Chiffonda Ducking. He grew up with two brothers named Anthony and Carl as well as one sister.<ref name="wthr" /> Battles and his siblings were raised in an urban, marginalized community of Indianapolis, having lived in several homeless shelters during the early part of his childhood.


He began rapping under a different stage name before using his current rap name. He graduated as Class of 2009 from [[Pike High School]] located in northern [[Indianapolis]]. His inspiration for music originated from hip hop icons such as [[Big Pun]], [[Drake (rapper)|Drake]], [[Eminem]] and [[2Pac]].
Battles began rapping under a different stage name. He graduated from [[Pike High School]] as part of Class of 2009 in northern [[Indianapolis]]. His inspiration for music is said to originate from industry icons such as [[Big Pun]], [[Drake (rapper)|Drake]], [[Eminem]], and [[2Pac]].


On August 31, 2006, his brother Carl Battles was riding the backseat of his sister Aishareika's car to school. In the morning hours, Aishareika's car collided with a pick up truck on Northwestern Side near 71st street near their school [[Pike High School]].<ref name="wthr">{{cite web|url=http://www.wthr.com/story/5384404/family-mourns-pike-students-death |title=Family mourns Pike student's death |last=Davis |first=Linsey |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=[[NBC]] }}</ref> Carl, Aishareika and Mark were rushed to the hospital, however shortly after arriving at the hospital, Carl was pronounced dead.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theindychannel.com/news/counselors-help-pike-students-deal-with-fatal-crash |title=Counselors Help Pike Students Deal With Fatal Crash |last= |first= |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=[[ABC News]] }}</ref> Local media reports state that both cars were speeding on a yellow light, and as a result of the accident prompted the roads near the school to be enforced with speed cameras.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://fox59.com/2013/05/16/speed-enforcement-cameras-in-indiana-school-zones/ |title=Speed enforcement cameras in Indiana school zones? |last=Spehler |first=Dan |date=2013-05-16 |publisher=FOX }}</ref>
On August 31, 2006, his brother Carl was riding the backseat of his sibling's car to school. In the morning hours, his sibling's car collided with a pick up truck near [[Pike High School]].<ref name="wthr">{{cite web |url=http://www.wthr.com/story/5384404/family-mourns-pike-students-death |title=Family mourns Pike student's death |last=Davis |first=Linsey |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=[[NBC]] |access-date=2014-01-04 |archive-date=2014-01-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105073307/http://www.wthr.com/story/5384404/family-mourns-pike-students-death |url-status=dead }}</ref> Mark and his siblings were rushed to the hospital. However, shortly after arriving at the hospital, Mark's brother, Carl, was pronounced dead.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theindychannel.com/news/counselors-help-pike-students-deal-with-fatal-crash |title=Counselors Help Pike Students Deal With Fatal Crash |last= |first= |date=2006-09-01 |publisher=[[ABC News (United States)|ABC News]] |access-date=2014-01-04 |archive-date=2014-01-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105065209/http://www.theindychannel.com/news/counselors-help-pike-students-deal-with-fatal-crash |url-status=dead }}</ref> Local media in Indiana reported speeding incidents in the area and prompted officials to enforce speed cameras in the roads near the school.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://fox59.com/2013/05/16/speed-enforcement-cameras-in-indiana-school-zones/ |title=Speed enforcement cameras in Indiana school zones? |last=Spehler |first=Dan |date=2013-05-16 |publisher=FOX }}</ref> In songs performed by Battles, including ''One For The Money'', he pays tribute to his brother Carl.
 
In several songs performed by Battles, including ''"One For The Money"'', he mentions and pays tribute to his brother Carl. His brother Carl was, according to Battles, the reason for his motivation to pursue a music career.


== Musical career ==
== Musical career ==
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=== 2011–2012: Career beginnings ===
=== 2011–2012: Career beginnings ===


Mark started rapping officially at age 15. Mark started his own independent [[record label]] called ''Fly America'' in 2011, which is a brand that is heard throughout his music. In 2012, Mark released his first mixtape called ''Walking Distance'' with appearances by [[Kid Ink]], [[Lola Monroe]] and [[King Los]]. Walking Distance went on to be certified gold on DatPiff, having over 100,000 digital downloads. Mark's music video single Last Night was remixed by Kid Ink and was released without a music video. Most of the material in the mixtape was produced by Mark's DJ & producer, DJ Yung 1. Mark's most famous singles were "Ugh Oh" featuring Los, and ''Last Night'', which was featured on MTVu Freshman and hit second place for air time on [[MTV]].<ref name="mtvu">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtvu.com/music/videos-by-first-things-first-krushai-mark-battles-rob-scott-vali/ |title=You Pick The Video That Gets On Air |last= |first= |date=2012-10-08 |publisher=[[MTV]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVNS1_brcHQ |title=Mark Battles - Ugh Oh (ft. Los) |last= |first= |date=2013-11-27 |publisher=VEVO (YouTube) }}</ref>
Battles started rapping officially at age 15. Mark started his own independent [[record label]] labeled Fly America in 2011, a brand that is heard throughout his music. In 2011, Mark released his first mixtape called ''Good Morning America'' earning airplay in local radio. In 2012, Battles released ''Walking Distance'' with appearances by [[Kid Ink]], [[Lola Monroe]] and [[King Los]]. ''Walking Distance'' went on to be certified gold on DatPiff. Battles' single Last Night was remixed by Kid Ink. Most of his mixtape was produced by DJ and music producer DJ Yung 1. Battles' most famous singles were "Ugh Oh" featuring Los and ''Last Night'', which was featured on MTVu Freshman and hit second place for air time on [[MTV]].<ref name="mtvu">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtvu.com/music/videos-by-first-things-first-krushai-mark-battles-rob-scott-vali/ |title=You Pick The Video That Gets On Air |last= |first= |date=2012-10-08 |publisher=[[MTV]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVNS1_brcHQ |title=Mark Battles - Ugh Oh (ft. Los) |last= |first= |date=2013-11-27 |publisher=VEVO (YouTube) }}</ref>


Mark has remixed numerous famous hip hop songs which have appeared on his mixtapes. On November 2012, Mark released the first part of his mixtape series ''Saturday School''. In 2012, Mark Battles went on tour with MMG recording artist Rockie Fresh.<ref name="hotfm">{{cite web|url=http://hot963.com/2065219/naptowns-mark-battles-on-tour-w-mmg-rockie-fresh-and-decided-to-show/ |title=Naptown's Mark Battles On Tour w MMG Rockie Fresh and decided to show |last=Swift |first=B |date=2012-11-25 |work=[[WYHX|Hot 96.3]] }}</ref>
Battles has remixed numerous famous hip hop songs which have appeared on his mixtapes. In November 2012, he released the first part of his mixtape series ''Saturday School''. Mark Battles also went on tour with MMG recording artist Rockie Fresh.<ref name="hotfm">{{cite web|url=http://hot963.com/2065219/naptowns-mark-battles-on-tour-w-mmg-rockie-fresh-and-decided-to-show/ |title=Naptown's Mark Battles On Tour w MMG Rockie Fresh and decided to show |last=Swift |first=B |date=2012-11-25 |work=[[WYHX|Hot 96.3]] }}</ref>


=== 2013–2015: Mixtape Series & ''Numb'' ===
=== 2013–2015: Mixtape Series & ''Numb'' ===


In 2013, Battles released his 3 part Saturday School mixtape series, along with a national tour that included a sold-out show alongside Bad Boy rapper [[Machine Gun Kelly (musician)|MGK]]. On December 27, 2013, he released his collaboration mixtape with King Los. The mixtape Broken Silence was released in 2013 and artists featured include [[Wale (rapper)|Wale]], [[Curren$y]], [[Ab-Soul]], [[French Montana]], [[Dizzy Wright]], [[Cyhi Da Prynce]] and [[Chevy Woods]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapdose.com/2013/12/28/king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-mixtape |title=King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence (Mixtape) |last=Fall |first=Kyle |date=2013-12-27 |publisher=Rapdose }}</ref> The first single was released titled "Got A Feeling" which featured [[Wale (rapper)|Wale]] and former Fly America rapper Derek Luh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.citypaper.com/noise/index.php/2014/01/los-collaborates-with-mark-battles-and-wale-on-new-mixtape/ |title=Los Collaborates With Mark Battles and Wale On New Mixtape |last=Shipley |first=Al |date=2014-01-02 |publisher=CityPaper }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/mark-battles-announces-new-mixtape-black-einstein-with-cover-art-and-release-date-news.9103.html |title=Mark Battles Announces Black Einstein |last=Lilah |first=Rose |date=2014-01-28 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref> On August 12, 2014 Battles released another mixtape titled "Preseason".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Mark-Battles-Pre-Season-mixtape.638371.html |title=Mark Battles Preseason Datpiff |last= |first= |date=2014-01-28 |publisher=Datpiff }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://events.kzok.cbslocal.com/seattle_wa/events/fly-america-presents-mark-battles-and-derek-luh-/E0-001-087130212-5 |title=Fly America Presents: MARK BATTLES Plus Guests |last= |first= |date=2016-11-15 |publisher=[[CBS News]] }}</ref>
In 2013, Battles released his three-part Saturday School mixtape series, along with a national tour that included a sold-out show alongside Bad Boy rapper [[Machine Gun Kelly (musician)|MGK]]. On December 27, 2013, he released his collaboration mixtape with King Los. The mixtape Broken Silence was released in 2013 and artists featured include [[Wale (rapper)|Wale]], [[Curren$y]], [[Ab-Soul]], [[French Montana]], [[Dizzy Wright]], [[Cyhi Da Prynce]] and [[Chevy Woods]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapdose.com/2013/12/28/king-los-mark-battles-broken-silence-mixtape |title=King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence (Mixtape) |last=Fall |first=Kyle |date=2013-12-27 |publisher=Rapdose }}</ref> The first single was released titled "Got A Feeling" which featured [[Wale (rapper)|Wale]] and Derek Luh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.citypaper.com/noise/index.php/2014/01/los-collaborates-with-mark-battles-and-wale-on-new-mixtape/ |title=Los Collaborates With Mark Battles and Wale On New Mixtape |last=Shipley |first=Al |date=2014-01-02 |publisher=CityPaper }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/mark-battles-announces-new-mixtape-black-einstein-with-cover-art-and-release-date-news.9103.html |title=Mark Battles Announces Black Einstein |last=Lilah |first=Rose |date=2014-01-28 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref> On August 12, 2014, Battles released another mixtape titled ''Preseason''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.datpiff.com/Mark-Battles-Pre-Season-mixtape.638371.html |title=Mark Battles Preseason Datpiff |last= |first= |date=2014-01-28 |publisher=Datpiff |access-date=2014-08-17 |archive-date=2014-08-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140816184353/http://www.datpiff.com/Mark-Battles-Pre-Season-mixtape.638371.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://events.kzok.cbslocal.com/seattle_wa/events/fly-america-presents-mark-battles-and-derek-luh-/E0-001-087130212-5 |title=Fly America Presents: MARK BATTLES Plus Guests |last= |first= |date=2016-11-15 |publisher=[[CBS News]] |access-date=2016-12-12 |archive-date=2016-12-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220110434/http://events.kzok.cbslocal.com/seattle_wa/events/fly-america-presents-mark-battles-and-derek-luh-/E0-001-087130212-5 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


On October 2, 2015, Battles released his debut studio album "Numb", which was released independently on iTunes. The album peaked at #25 on the U.S. [[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] Heatseekers charts and reached #39 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop charts.<ref name="Billboard"/>
On October 2, 2015, Battles released his debut studio album ''Numb'', which was released independently. The album peaked at #25 on the U.S. [[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] Hip-Hop/R&B charts.


=== 2016-2017: ''Before The Deal'' & ''Day 2'' ===
=== 2016-2017: ''Before The Deal'' & ''Day 2'' ===


On May 13, 2016, Battles announced on his Twitter account a partnership deal with iconic music producer No ID's record label [[ARTium Recordings]], a division of [[Def Jam Records]].<ref name="indystar" /> The deal came after the release of a dozen musical projects and national tours, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.sltrib.com/events/view/mark_battles_and_derek_luh|title=Mark Battles - Before The Deal Tour |last=|first= |date=2016-06-26 |publisher=[[The Salt Lake Tribune]] }}</ref> Shortly after, Battles announced his latest musical project "Before The Deal" and released a music video for the single "No Love" featuring Futuristic and King Los.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/mark-battles-feat-futuristic-king-los-no-love-video-new-video.37555.html|title="No Love" Video: Mark Battles Feat Futuristic and King Los |last=|first= |date=2016-05-24 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref>
On May 13, 2016, Battles announced on his Twitter account a partnership with iconic music producer No ID's record label [[ARTium Recordings]].<ref name="indystar" /> The deal came after the release of a dozen musical projects and national tours, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.sltrib.com/events/view/mark_battles_and_derek_luh|title=Mark Battles - Before The Deal Tour |last=|first= |date=2016-06-26 |publisher=[[The Salt Lake Tribune]] }}</ref> Shortly after, Battles announced his latest musical project ''Before The Deal'' and released a music video for the single "No Love" featuring Futuristic and King Los.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/mark-battles-feat-futuristic-king-los-no-love-video-new-video.37555.html|title="No Love" Video: Mark Battles Feat Futuristic and King Los |last=|first= |date=2016-05-24 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref>
 
On May 31, 2016, Battles released his second studio album "Before the Deal", for digital release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hot97.com/news/whos-next-0/scottiebeam-releases-putyouonplaylist-523-audio|title=Hot 97: Who's Next Playlist |last=Beam|first=Scottie |date=2016-05-23 |publisher=[[Hot 97]] }}</ref> Within a couple of hours after its release, Before the Deal topped at #8 on the Top Rap album iTunes charts. On the week of June 18, 2016, Before the Deal debuted on Billboard's Top Heatseekers charts at #15.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/mark-battles-mn0003263735|title=Mark Battles' Biography & Billboard Chart History: AllMusic |last=Kellman|first=Andy |date=2016-12-11 |publisher=[[AllMusic]] }}</ref> A nationwide tour was announced called "The Before The Deal Tour", which began in June 2016. Throughout 2016, Battles has collaborated with several recording artists including Dizzy Wright, Audio Push and Locksmith.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40007/title.dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-demrick-mark-battles|title=Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles |last=Hunte|first=Justin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=[[HipHopDX]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/rap-music/new-music/2016/09/locksmith-grime-video/|title=Locksmith Unleashes the "Grime" |last=Ivey|first=Justin |date=2016-09-12 |publisher=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL Mag]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapradar.com/2016/11/01/new-video-locksmith-x-mark-battles-epic/|title=NEW VIDEO: LOCKSMITH X MARK BATTLES: "EPIC" |last=|first= |date=2016-11-01 |publisher=RapRadar }}</ref> In Summer of 2016, Mark Battles became one of three artists as part of Dizzy Wright's "Still Movin" tour with Audio Push.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40007/title.dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-demrick-mark-battles |title=Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles |last=Hunte |first=Justin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=HipHopDX }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-mark-battles-and-demrick-news.23494.html |title=Dizzy Wright Announces "Still Movin" Tour With Audio Push, Mark Battles & Demrick |last=Goddard |first=Kevin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.laweekly.com/event/dizzy-wright-dj-hoppa-audio-push-mark-battles-demrick-7337543 |title=Dizzy Wright, DJ Hoppa, Audio Push, Mark Battles, Demrick |last= |first= |date=2016-10-02 |publisher=[[LA Weekly]] }}</ref>


In September 2016, Battles collaborated with fellow Indianapolis native Dorian for the official remix of [[Dorian (rapper)|Dorian]]'s hit single "Don't Sleep".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/dont-sleep-remix-feat-mark-battles-single/id1178858280|title=Dont Sleep (Remix) [feat. Mark Battles]|website=Apple Music|access-date=2017-07-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Dorian-rapper-Dont-Sleep-remix-feat-Mark-Battles/release/9827944|title=Dorian (rapper) - Don't Sleep (remix) feat. Mark Battles|date=2016-09-01|website=Discogs|access-date=2017-07-02}}</ref>
On May 31, 2016, Battles released his second studio album ''Before the Deal'', for digital release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hot97.com/news/whos-next-0/scottiebeam-releases-putyouonplaylist-523-audio|title=Hot 97: Who's Next Playlist |last=Beam|first=Scottie |date=2016-05-23 |publisher=[[Hot 97]] }}</ref> Within a couple of hours after its release, the album peaked at #8 on the Top Rap album charts on Apple's iTunes store. On the week of June 18, 2016, ''Before the Deal'' debuted on Billboard's Top Heatseekers charts at #15.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/mark-battles-mn0003263735|title=Mark Battles' Biography & Billboard Chart History: AllMusic |last=Kellman|first=Andy |date=2016-12-11 |publisher=[[AllMusic]] }}</ref> A nationwide tour was announced called "The Before The Deal Tour," which began in June 2016. Throughout 2016, Battles has collaborated with several recording artists including Dizzy Wright, Audio Push and Locksmith.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40007/title.dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-demrick-mark-battles|title=Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles |last=Hunte|first=Justin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=[[HipHopDX]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/rap-music/new-music/2016/09/locksmith-grime-video/|title=Locksmith Unleashes the "Grime" |last=Ivey|first=Justin |date=2016-09-12 |publisher=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL Mag]] }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapradar.com/2016/11/01/new-video-locksmith-x-mark-battles-epic/|title=NEW VIDEO: LOCKSMITH X MARK BATTLES: "EPIC" |last=|first= |date=2016-11-01 |publisher=RapRadar }}</ref> In Summer of 2016, Mark Battles became one of three artists as part of Dizzy Wright's "Still Movin" tour with Audio Push.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40007/title.dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-demrick-mark-battles |title=Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles |last=Hunte |first=Justin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=HipHopDX }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/dizzy-wright-announces-still-movin-tour-with-audio-push-mark-battles-and-demrick-news.23494.html |title=Dizzy Wright Announces "Still Movin" Tour With Audio Push, Mark Battles & Demrick |last=Goddard |first=Kevin |date=2016-08-15 |publisher=HotNewHipHop }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.laweekly.com/event/dizzy-wright-dj-hoppa-audio-push-mark-battles-demrick-7337543 |title=Dizzy Wright, DJ Hoppa, Audio Push, Mark Battles, Demrick |last= |first= |date=2016-10-02 |publisher=[[LA Weekly]] }}</ref>


In November 2016, Battles was interviewed by XXL magazine, in which he stated he described his relationship with producer NO I.D. as "The new kid on the block." After the radio interview, several hip hop artists including Nebraska rapper HAKIM, expressed their inspiration for Battles' comeup.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynebraskan.com/arts_and_entertainment/local-rapper-welcomes-struggle-of-going-big-strives-to-inspire/article_2525c41a-bd04-11e6-9e22-5fb60b962e4a.html |title=Local rapper welcomes struggle of going big, strives to inspire |last=Crisler |first=Sam |date=2016-12-08 |publisher=[[The Daily Nebraskan]] }}</ref>
In September 2016, Battles collaborated with fellow Indianapolis native Dorian for the official remix of [[Dorian (rapper)|Dorian]]'s hit single ''Don't Sleep''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/dont-sleep-remix-feat-mark-battles-single/id1178858280|title=Dont Sleep (Remix) [feat. Mark Battles]|website=Apple Music|access-date=2017-07-02}}{{dead link|date=March 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/Dorian-rapper-Dont-Sleep-remix-feat-Mark-Battles/release/9827944|title=Dorian (rapper) - Don't Sleep (remix) feat. Mark Battles|date=2016-09-01|website=Discogs|access-date=2017-07-02}}</ref>


On May 26 of 2017, in collaboration with Quality Control Music founder Coach K, Battles released a studio album with Tory Lanez called ''Day 2,'' which received mainstream radio airplay in the US.
In November 2016, Battles was interviewed by XXL magazine, in which he stated he described his relationship with producer NO I.D. as "the new kid on the block." After the radio interview, several hip hop artists including Nebraska rapper HAKIM, expressed their inspiration for Battles' rise.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynebraskan.com/arts_and_entertainment/local-rapper-welcomes-struggle-of-going-big-strives-to-inspire/article_2525c41a-bd04-11e6-9e22-5fb60b962e4a.html |title=Local rapper welcomes struggle of going big, strives to inspire |last=Crisler |first=Sam |date=2016-12-08 |publisher=[[The Daily Nebraskan]] }}</ref>


=== 2018-present: ''Vasi World EP'' ===
On May 26, 2017, in collaboration with Quality Control Music executive Coach K, Battles released a studio album with Tory Lanez called ''Day 2,'' which received mainstream radio airplay in the US.


On February 9, 2018, Battles released his ''Vasi World EP'' with Fly America and Quality Control Music. The following month, he announced the Vasi World Spring Tour featuring DJ Yung 1, T.Fitz, 12Fifteen, and King Kap.
=== 2018-present: ''Vasi World EP'', ''Paramount'' & ''Do Not Disturb'' ===


== Fly America ==
On February 9, 2018, Battles released his ''Vasi World EP'' in affiliation with Quality Control Music. The following month, he announced the Vasi World Spring Tour featuring DJ Yung 1, T.Fitz, 12Fifteen, and King Kap.
{{Infobox record label
| name        = Fly America
| image      =
| image_bg    =
| parent      =
| founded    = 2011
| founder    = Mark Battles, DJ Yung 1
| status      = Active
| distributor =
| genre      = [[Hip hop music|Hip Hop]]
| country    = United States
| location    =
| url        =
}}
'''Fly America (FA)''' is an American independent hip-hop record company founded by Mark Battles, the label's landmark recording artist. In 2016, Battles announced a partnership deal with [[No ID]]'s imprint ARTium Recordings, a part of [[Def Jam Records]]; however, in 2017, Battles formed a partnership with Atlanta music manager Coach K.<ref name="indystar" /> Since its creation, in 2011, former hip hop recording artist Derek Luh, Jace Houston, King Kap, Brittani Jenae, and DJ Yung 1 have been signed to Fly America.


=== Current artists ===
In June 2023, Battles discussed gun violence, mental health, and popular culture with [[Joey Florez]] on a podcast hosted by [[Bizzy Bone]]'s colleague Demetrius Reynolds, stating he has been mentored by Kevin Lee, or Coach K, of [[Quality Control Music]].<ref name="dinipodcast"/>
* Mark Battles<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X95a0rNrMo8|title=XXL Magazine Radio - Mark Battles Interview|last=Trexxx|first=DJ |date=2016-11-23 |publisher=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] }}</ref>
* 12Fifteen
* Brittani Jenae
* DJ Yung 1 <small>(DJ/Producer)</small>


=== Former artists ===
In May 2024, Battles released an album titled ''Do Not Disturb'', garnering millions of digital streams within 24 hours of release. These listens, however, were later revealed to have been faked by a bot farm.<ref name="instaspotify">{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/markbattles317/reel/C7Ek3uWRxGv/ |title=Mark Battles Album Release - Do Not Disturb |last= |first= |date=2024-05-17 |publisher=Instagram }}</ref>
* Derek Luh
* Jace Houston


== Discography ==
== Discography ==
Line 100: Line 73:
! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:8em;" | Title
! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:8em;" | Title
! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:22em;" | Album details
! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:22em;" | Album details
! scope="col" colspan="2" | Peak chart positions
! scope="col" colspan="3" | Peak chart positions
|-
|-
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top Heatseekers]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart?f=324|title=Top Heatseekers - Billboard US Charts|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top Heatseekers]]<br><ref name="billboard.com">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160813145229/http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart|url-status=dead|archive-date=2016-08-13|title=Top Heatseekers - Billboard US Charts|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums|US<br>R&B]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart|title=Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums - Billboard US Charts|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums|US<br>R&B]]<br><ref name="Top R&B">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160813145229/http://www.billboard.com/artist/6723802/mark-battles/chart|url-status=dead|archive-date=2016-08-13|title=Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums - Billboard US Charts|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums|US<br>Hip-Hop]]<br><ref name="Top R&B"/>
|-
|-
| style="text-align:left;" | ''[[ARTium Recordings|Numb]]''
| style="text-align:left;" | ''[[ARTium Recordings|Numb]]''
|
|
* Released: October 2, 2015
* Released: October 2, 2015
* Label: Self-released
* Label: Independent
* Formats: [[Music download|digital download]]
* Formats: [[Music download|Digital]]
| 25 || 39
| 25 || 39 || 39
|}
|}


Line 118: Line 92:
! scope="col" colspan="2" | Peak chart positions
! scope="col" colspan="2" | Peak chart positions
|-
|-
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top Heatseekers]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/heatseekers-albums/2016-06-18|title=Top Heatseekers - Billboard US Charts|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|access-date=24 October 2015}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top Heatseekers]]<br><ref name="billboard.com"/>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums|US<br>R&B]]<br>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums|US<br>R&B]]<br>
|-
|-
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|
|
* Released: May 31, 2016
* Released: May 31, 2016
* Label: Self-released
* Label: Independent
* Formats: [[Music download|digital download]]
* Formats: [[Music download|Digital]]
| 15 || --
| 15 || --
|}
|}


* ''Day 2'' (2017)
* ''Day 2'' (2017)
* ''Metaphorically Speaking'' (2021)
* ''Paramount'' (2023)
* ''Do Not Disturb'' (2024)


=== Mixtapes ===
=== Mixtapes ===
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|-
|-
|2016
|2016
|Indy Homecoming Show<ref name="indystar" /><ref name="hot963">{{cite web|url=http://hot963.com/events/mark-battles-homecoming-show-9-16-16/ |title=Hot 96.3 - Indy Homecoming Show, Mark Battles |last= |first= |date=2016-09-16 |work=[[WYHX|Hot 96.3]] }}</ref>
|Indy Homecoming Show<ref name="indystar" /><ref name="hot963">{{cite web |url=http://hot963.com/events/mark-battles-homecoming-show-9-16-16/ |title=Hot 96.3 - Indy Homecoming Show, Mark Battles |last= |first= |date=2016-09-16 |work=[[WYHX|Hot 96.3]] }}{{Dead link|date=October 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref>
|-
|-
|2016
|2016
|The Before The Deal Tour<ref name="cbschiago">{{cite web|url=http://events.us995.cbslocal.com/chicago_il/events/mark-battles-live-chicago-il-all-ages-event-/E0-001-093992961-9 |title=Mark Battles Live In Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall |last= |first= |date=2016-07-05 |work=[[CBS News]] }}</ref>
|The Before The Deal Tour<ref name="cbschiago">{{cite web |url=http://events.us995.cbslocal.com/chicago_il/events/mark-battles-live-chicago-il-all-ages-event-/E0-001-093992961-9 |title=Mark Battles Live In Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall |last= |first= |date=2016-07-05 |work=[[CBS News]] |access-date=2016-12-12 |archive-date=2016-12-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220110629/http://events.us995.cbslocal.com/chicago_il/events/mark-battles-live-chicago-il-all-ages-event-/E0-001-093992961-9 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|-
|-
|2015
|2015
Line 184: Line 161:


== External links ==
== External links ==
* [http://www.weareflyamerica.com/ Official Website]
* [https://www.instagram.com/markbattles317/ Instagram]
* [https://twitter.com/markbattles317/ Twitter]
* [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOfqmOzYtV6jjbcTDAUAmQg/ YouTube]
* [https://twitter.com/markbattles317/ X]
* [https://www.facebook.com/markbattlesmusic/ Facebook]
* [https://www.facebook.com/markbattlesmusic/ Facebook]
 
* [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14937376/ IMDb]
{{Vivendi|state=collapsed}}


{{authority control}}
{{authority control}}
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[[Category:Businesspeople from Indianapolis]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Indianapolis]]
[[Category:Songwriters from Indiana]]
[[Category:Songwriters from Indiana]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American male rappers]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American rappers]]
[[Category:21st-century American male rappers]]
[[Category:Rappers from Indiana]]
[[Category:Rappers from Indiana]]
[[Category:Pike High School alumni]]
[[Category:21st-century American businesspeople]]
[[Category:21st-century American businesspeople]]
[[Category:American hip hop singers]]
[[Category:American hip-hop singers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Midwest hip-hop musicians]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:21st-century American rappers]]
[[Category:21st-century American rappers]]
[[Category:21st-century American male musicians]]
[[Category:21st-century American male musicians]]
[[Category:African-American songwriters]]
[[Category:African-American songwriters]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American musicians]]
[[Category:American male songwriters]]
[[Category:American male songwriters]]

Latest revision as of 06:37, 18 December 2025


Mark Battles
Birth nameMark Anthony Battles
Born (1991-09-02) September 2, 1991 (age 34)
Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
GenresHip hop
Occupation(s)
  • Rapper
  • songwriter
  • entrepreneur
  • record producer
InstrumentsVocals
Years active2011–present
LabelsIndependent
Associated acts

Mark Anthony Battles (born September 2, 1991) is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Indianapolis, Indiana.[1][2]

In 2011, Battles released his first project Good Morning America and gained recognition for his single Last Night, after placing second on MTVu and being remixed by Kid Ink.[3][4] In 2015, Battles released his debut studio album Numb, which peaked in Billboard's Top Hip-Hop/R&B charts followed by a second album in 2016 called Before The Deal, peaking at #15 on the Heatseekers chart.[5] Battles has released numerous projects and collaborations with Dizzy Wright, French Montana, Ab-Soul, Kevin Gates, Curren$y, and Tory Lanez.[6][7][8]

Since 2017, Battles has been mentored and managed as an independent artist by music executive Coach K of Quality Control Music.[9] Collectively, Battles has amassed more than 50 million streams on digital platforms such as Spotify and YouTube Music, touring periodically across America, making him one of the most commercially successful rappers from Indianapolis.[10]

Early life[edit | edit source]

Battles was born on September 2, 1991, in Indianapolis. His mother is Chiffonda Ducking. He grew up with two brothers named Anthony and Carl as well as one sister.[11] Battles and his siblings were raised in an urban, marginalized community of Indianapolis, having lived in several homeless shelters during the early part of his childhood.

Battles began rapping under a different stage name. He graduated from Pike High School as part of Class of 2009 in northern Indianapolis. His inspiration for music is said to originate from industry icons such as Big Pun, Drake, Eminem, and 2Pac.

On August 31, 2006, his brother Carl was riding the backseat of his sibling's car to school. In the morning hours, his sibling's car collided with a pick up truck near Pike High School.[11] Mark and his siblings were rushed to the hospital. However, shortly after arriving at the hospital, Mark's brother, Carl, was pronounced dead.[12] Local media in Indiana reported speeding incidents in the area and prompted officials to enforce speed cameras in the roads near the school.[13] In songs performed by Battles, including One For The Money, he pays tribute to his brother Carl.

Musical career[edit | edit source]

2011–2012: Career beginnings[edit | edit source]

Battles started rapping officially at age 15. Mark started his own independent record label labeled Fly America in 2011, a brand that is heard throughout his music. In 2011, Mark released his first mixtape called Good Morning America earning airplay in local radio. In 2012, Battles released Walking Distance with appearances by Kid Ink, Lola Monroe and King Los. Walking Distance went on to be certified gold on DatPiff. Battles' single Last Night was remixed by Kid Ink. Most of his mixtape was produced by DJ and music producer DJ Yung 1. Battles' most famous singles were "Ugh Oh" featuring Los and Last Night, which was featured on MTVu Freshman and hit second place for air time on MTV.[14][15]

Battles has remixed numerous famous hip hop songs which have appeared on his mixtapes. In November 2012, he released the first part of his mixtape series Saturday School. Mark Battles also went on tour with MMG recording artist Rockie Fresh.[16]

2013–2015: Mixtape Series & Numb[edit | edit source]

In 2013, Battles released his three-part Saturday School mixtape series, along with a national tour that included a sold-out show alongside Bad Boy rapper MGK. On December 27, 2013, he released his collaboration mixtape with King Los. The mixtape Broken Silence was released in 2013 and artists featured include Wale, Curren$y, Ab-Soul, French Montana, Dizzy Wright, Cyhi Da Prynce and Chevy Woods.[17] The first single was released titled "Got A Feeling" which featured Wale and Derek Luh.[18][19] On August 12, 2014, Battles released another mixtape titled Preseason.[20][21]

On October 2, 2015, Battles released his debut studio album Numb, which was released independently. The album peaked at #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hip-Hop/R&B charts.

2016-2017: Before The Deal & Day 2[edit | edit source]

On May 13, 2016, Battles announced on his Twitter account a partnership with iconic music producer No ID's record label ARTium Recordings.[10] The deal came after the release of a dozen musical projects and national tours, respectively.[22] Shortly after, Battles announced his latest musical project Before The Deal and released a music video for the single "No Love" featuring Futuristic and King Los.[23]

On May 31, 2016, Battles released his second studio album Before the Deal, for digital release.[24] Within a couple of hours after its release, the album peaked at #8 on the Top Rap album charts on Apple's iTunes store. On the week of June 18, 2016, Before the Deal debuted on Billboard's Top Heatseekers charts at #15.[25] A nationwide tour was announced called "The Before The Deal Tour," which began in June 2016. Throughout 2016, Battles has collaborated with several recording artists including Dizzy Wright, Audio Push and Locksmith.[26][27][28] In Summer of 2016, Mark Battles became one of three artists as part of Dizzy Wright's "Still Movin" tour with Audio Push.[29][30][31]

In September 2016, Battles collaborated with fellow Indianapolis native Dorian for the official remix of Dorian's hit single Don't Sleep.[32][33]

In November 2016, Battles was interviewed by XXL magazine, in which he stated he described his relationship with producer NO I.D. as "the new kid on the block." After the radio interview, several hip hop artists including Nebraska rapper HAKIM, expressed their inspiration for Battles' rise.[34]

On May 26, 2017, in collaboration with Quality Control Music executive Coach K, Battles released a studio album with Tory Lanez called Day 2, which received mainstream radio airplay in the US.

2018-present: Vasi World EP, Paramount & Do Not Disturb[edit | edit source]

On February 9, 2018, Battles released his Vasi World EP in affiliation with Quality Control Music. The following month, he announced the Vasi World Spring Tour featuring DJ Yung 1, T.Fitz, 12Fifteen, and King Kap.

In June 2023, Battles discussed gun violence, mental health, and popular culture with Joey Florez on a podcast hosted by Bizzy Bone's colleague Demetrius Reynolds, stating he has been mentored by Kevin Lee, or Coach K, of Quality Control Music.[9]

In May 2024, Battles released an album titled Do Not Disturb, garnering millions of digital streams within 24 hours of release. These listens, however, were later revealed to have been faked by a bot farm.[35]

Discography[edit | edit source]

Studio albums[edit | edit source]

List of albums, with selected chart positions and sales figures
Title Album details Peak chart positions
Top Heatseekers
[36] 		US
R&B
[37] 		US
Hip-Hop
[37]
Numb
  • Released: October 2, 2015
  • Label: Independent
  • Formats: Digital
 25 39 39
Title Album details Peak chart positions
Top Heatseekers
[36] 		US
R&B
Before The Deal
  • Released: May 31, 2016
  • Label: Independent
  • Formats: Digital
 15 --
  • Day 2 (2017)
  • Metaphorically Speaking (2021)
  • Paramount (2023)
  • Do Not Disturb (2024)

Mixtapes[edit | edit source]

  • Good Morning America (2011)
  • Walking Distance (2012)
  • Saturday School (2011)
  • Saturday School 2 (2012)
  • Saturday School 3 (2012)
  • Broken Silence (2013)
  • Black Einstein (2014)
  • Preseason (2014)
  • Lost In Reality (2015) (with Dizzy Wright and Euroz)
  • Shelter Food (2015)
  • Until September (2015)
  • Vasi World (2018)
  • Foturnate (2018)
  • Fortunate2 (2019)

Tours[edit | edit source]

Year Tour Name
2018 Vasi World Spring Tour
2017 Day 2 Tour
2016 Still Movin Tour[38]
2016 Indy Homecoming Show[10][39]
2016 The Before The Deal Tour[40]
2015 The Numb Tour
2014 The Dreams 2 Reality Tour[41][42]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Grant, Shawn (2021-10-19). "5 Hip-Hop Artists That Broke The Mental Health Stigma". The Source.
  2. ↑ "5 Influential Rappers That Broke The Mental Health Stigma". HuffPost. 2016-07-27.
  3. ↑ "Mark Battles: Billboard Chart History". Billboard. 2016-05-17. Archived from the original on 2016-08-26.
  4. ↑ "Mark Battles "Last Night"". MTV. 2012-07-26. Archived from the original on April 27, 2014.
  5. ↑ "Mark Battles: Billboard Chart History". Billboard. 2016-05-17. Archived from the original on 2016-08-13.
  6. ↑ Baker, Soren (2013-12-30). "King Los & Mark Battles "Broken Silence" Release Date, Cover Art, Download & Mixtape Stream". HipHopDX. Archived from the original on 2015-01-13. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  7. ↑ "Premiere: Mark Battles Feat. French Montana And Derek Luh 'Cant Stand Us". Vibe. 2013-10-17.
  8. ↑ Griffen, Sam (2013-12-30). "New Mixtape: King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence". Respect. Magazine.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 "The Mark Battles & Joey Florez Interview - Vigilantes Radio Live! on iHeartRadio". iHeartRadio. 2023-06-20.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Lindquist, David (2016-09-14). "Meet Mark Battles, the rapper who's ready to come home". Indy Star.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Davis, Linsey (2006-09-01). "Family mourns Pike student's death". NBC. Archived from the original on 2014-01-05. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  12. ↑ "Counselors Help Pike Students Deal With Fatal Crash". ABC News. 2006-09-01. Archived from the original on 2014-01-05. Retrieved 2014-01-04.
  13. ↑ Spehler, Dan (2013-05-16). "Speed enforcement cameras in Indiana school zones?". FOX.
  14. ↑ "You Pick The Video That Gets On Air". MTV. 2012-10-08.
  15. ↑ "Mark Battles - Ugh Oh (ft. Los)". VEVO (YouTube). 2013-11-27.
  16. ↑ Swift, B (2012-11-25). "Naptown's Mark Battles On Tour w MMG Rockie Fresh and decided to show". Hot 96.3.
  17. ↑ Fall, Kyle (2013-12-27). "King Los & Mark Battles – Broken Silence (Mixtape)". Rapdose.
  18. ↑ Shipley, Al (2014-01-02). "Los Collaborates With Mark Battles and Wale On New Mixtape". CityPaper.
  19. ↑ Lilah, Rose (2014-01-28). "Mark Battles Announces Black Einstein". HotNewHipHop.
  20. ↑ "Mark Battles Preseason Datpiff". Datpiff. 2014-01-28. Archived from the original on 2014-08-16. Retrieved 2014-08-17.
  21. ↑ "Fly America Presents: MARK BATTLES Plus Guests". CBS News. 2016-11-15. Archived from the original on 2016-12-20. Retrieved 2016-12-12.
  22. ↑ "Mark Battles - Before The Deal Tour". The Salt Lake Tribune. 2016-06-26.
  23. ↑ ""No Love" Video: Mark Battles Feat Futuristic and King Los". HotNewHipHop. 2016-05-24.
  24. ↑ Beam, Scottie (2016-05-23). "Hot 97: Who's Next Playlist". Hot 97.
  25. ↑ Kellman, Andy (2016-12-11). "Mark Battles' Biography & Billboard Chart History: AllMusic". AllMusic.
  26. ↑ Hunte, Justin (2016-08-15). "Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles". HipHopDX.
  27. ↑ Ivey, Justin (2016-09-12). "Locksmith Unleashes the "Grime"". XXL Mag.
  28. ↑ "NEW VIDEO: LOCKSMITH X MARK BATTLES: "EPIC"". RapRadar. 2016-11-01.
  29. ↑ Hunte, Justin (2016-08-15). "Dizzy Wright Announces Still Movin Tour With Audio Push, Demrick & Mark Battles". HipHopDX.
  30. ↑ Goddard, Kevin (2016-08-15). "Dizzy Wright Announces "Still Movin" Tour With Audio Push, Mark Battles & Demrick". HotNewHipHop.
  31. ↑ "Dizzy Wright, DJ Hoppa, Audio Push, Mark Battles, Demrick". LA Weekly. 2016-10-02.
  32. ↑ "Dont Sleep (Remix) [feat. Mark Battles]". Apple Music. Retrieved 2017-07-02.[dead link]
  33. ↑ "Dorian (rapper) - Don't Sleep (remix) feat. Mark Battles". Discogs. 2016-09-01. Retrieved 2017-07-02.
  34. ↑ Crisler, Sam (2016-12-08). "Local rapper welcomes struggle of going big, strives to inspire". The Daily Nebraskan.
  35. ↑ "Mark Battles Album Release - Do Not Disturb". Instagram. 2024-05-17.
  36. ↑ 36.0 36.1 "Top Heatseekers - Billboard US Charts". Billboard. Archived from the original on 2016-08-13. Retrieved 24 October 2015.
  37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 "Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums - Billboard US Charts". Billboard. Archived from the original on 2016-08-13. Retrieved 24 October 2015.
  38. ↑ Anand, Raj (2016-08-15). "Dizzy Wright Announces The 'Still Movin' Tour With Audio Push, Mark Battles And Demrick". Uproxx.
  39. ↑ "Hot 96.3 - Indy Homecoming Show, Mark Battles". Hot 96.3. 2016-09-16.[dead link]
  40. ↑ "Mark Battles Live In Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall". CBS News. 2016-07-05. Archived from the original on 2016-12-20. Retrieved 2016-12-12.
  41. ↑ Lyons, Patrick (2014-08-21). "Mark Battles Announces The "Dreams 2 Reality" Tour, Sponsored By HNHH". HotNewHipHop.
  42. ↑ Swift, B (2014-06-10). "Mark Battles – "The Dreams 2 Reality" Tour Vlog #1 (Behind The Scenes)". Hot 96.3.

External links[edit | edit source]

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