who is calvin martyr?

I am Calvin Martyr — a hip-hop artist, battle rapper, Army veteran, public speaker, entrepreneur, and most of all, a man on a mission. I was born to create, to provoke change, and to speak truth unapologetically. From the military to music, from protest lines to packed-out shows, I've always used my voice as my weapon and my platform as my pulpit. This is my story — a journey of transformation, fire, faith, and purpose.

My journey so far

• 2007–2011: Early Years and the Calling
  After serving in the U.S. Army as a communications specialist, I felt the call to use my voice—not just technically, but spiritually and creatively. I began crafting songs that reflected my inner journey, my questions, and my convictions.

• 2011–2017: Music, Ministry, and Momentum
  I released my first major projects and began traveling for music. I shared stages with top Christian artists, performed live across the country, and brought my brand of conscious, faith-driven hip-hop into churches, clubs, and community centers.

• 2017: Super Bowl LIVE Performance – A Major Milestone
  I performed at Super Bowl Live in Houston, opening for Lecrae and others. It was a moment of validation for years of grinding.

• 2020: The Blackout Coalition
  Amid national unrest, I founded the Blackout Coalition—a movement that called for economic and social protest against racial injustice. Within weeks, it gained national attention, unified thousands, and made headlines. It was a moment of reckoning—not just for the world, but for me. I realized my voice was needed far beyond the stage.

• 2021–2023: Entrepreneurship and Education
  I pivoted toward coaching, digital marketing, and business consulting, helping others grow their brand and find their voice. I returned to school to pursue my degree in General Studies, working toward a Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership and a Master’s in Public Service.

• 2024–Present: Next Level Founders and the Rebrand
  I launched Next Level Founders, a mentorship-based business and empowerment network helping others heal, empower, and build. And now, I’m relaunching my entire brand—centered around calvinmartyr.com — to serve as the home for my music, movement, and mission.

why i do this

I’ve always believed that the truth should be loud — louder than fear, louder than trauma, louder than silence.

My mission is to use every gift God gave me — music, words, strategy, presence — to elevate others. Whether it’s a teenager hearing truth for the first time through a rap lyric, or a business owner finding clarity in one of my trainings, I’m here to help people grow. Not just economically, but spiritually, creatively, intellectually.

I don’t exist to fit into boxes. I’m here to break them.

What i represent

Let’s Build Something That Lasts

If my story resonates with you, explore more. Stream the music, join the newsletter, or reach out directly. I’m not just telling stories — I’m starting conversations that change lives.