Mr. Marcelo, also known as Brick, OG Celo, and simply Marcelo, is a prominent rapper and songwriter hailing from the Magnolia Projects in New Orleans, Louisiana. Born on August 13, 1976, he has earned a reputation as a skilled and influential "mafia boss" type rapper. Marcelo embarked on his musical journey in 1987 and is often referred to on the streets as the southern Jay-Z. His dedication to the underground hip-hop scene led to his first taste of success with the 1992 hit "Hey P-Popper," which became a popular dance track in the area.
Marcelo's career progressed when he signed with Tuff Guys Entertainment, gaining significant traction that caught the attention of No Limit Records. As a member of the 504 Boys, he contributed to the hit single "Where U At Whodi." On July 25, 2000, he released his album "Brick Livin," which solidified his status as "The Brick Liver." The Source magazine awarded "Brick Livin" a rating of 3 mics. The album's lead single, "How U Like It Baby," featuring Master P, was showcased on BET’s Rap City, and he also performed on "BET Live" alongside comedians Mo'Nique and Pierre. The album featured collaborations with artists such as C-Murder, Master P, Doe Doe, and Krazy, and achieved gold certification.
Marcelo's second album, "Streetz Got Luv 4 Me," was launched on July 30, 2001, through Priority Records. This album included popular singles such as "One and One," featuring Curren$y and Lil Doc, and "3rd Ward G's," featuring Baby and Doe Doe. It showcased guest appearances by Curren$y, Soulja Slim, Mystikal, Chyna White, and Lil Doc, further establishing Marcelo's presence in the industry. He has since collaborated with notable artists including Dougie Fresh, Juvenile, B.G., Soulja Slim, Sticky Fingaz, and Snoop Dogg.
In 2002, Marcelo took a significant step by founding his own label, Brick Livin Entertainment, under which he released his first mixtape, "Mr. Marcelo presents The Throwback Album Vol.1," on November 28, 2002. This project comprised 21 tracks that blended old school vibes with a contemporary twist, featuring emerging New Orleans artists. The lead singles, "Wishing On A Star" and "Tear The Club Down," featuring Lil Doc and Bigg Ramp, gained popularity in local clubs.
His next album, "Still Brick Livin," was released on July 27, 2004, through Brick Livin Entertainment. This collection included 19 tracks and featured collaborations with the late Soulja Slim and Doe Doe. Notable singles from the album were "Stop" and the remix of "How U Like It Baby," featuring Curren$y Da Hot Spitta. The standout track, "Tear Da Club Down Remix," featuring Da Fam Gang, became a club favorite. This album also featured appearances by Baby, Curren$y Da Hot Spitta, Soulja Slim, and others.
Marcelo followed with two mixtapes, "Magnolia My Home," released on February 8, 2005, which included the hit "Bounce Baby Make It Bounce" featuring Ka$h Flow and Soulja Slim, and "The Take Over," also released on February 8, 2005, through Ball Or Fall Records, showcasing a variety of New Orleans artists.
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Marcelo released "The Evacuation" on September 10, 2005, featuring the lead single "Heads Up." This mixtape further explored his experiences growing up in the Magnolia Projects. On February 21, 2006, he officially changed his stage name to Brick. His upcoming album, "Magnolia Raised Me," is set to be released in June 2006 through Ball Or Fall Records, featuring the lead single "Dat’ Good," featuring Pimp C and Bugsy, which is currently receiving airplay in clubs and on the radio. Additionally, Marcelo appears on "Got Purp Mixtape Vol.1," released on March 21, 2006, also through Ball Or Fall Records.