* Describe the sound of your music in four words or less...
Acoustic/rock/pop/soul
* Can you tell us a little bit about the process you go through when writing an album?
My approach to song writing usually starts with the music first. Then I come up with my melodies, and then write the lyrics.
* Waiting For Patience was released earlier this year, thus far has it lived up to your personal expectations?
Waiting for Patience was an amazing process, and it is a naked stripped down version of some of my songs, I was really happy with it considering I funded it and put it all together myself.
* What can people expect with the new album?
An musical roller coaster of emotions. Hurt, Love, all crammed into a Box but now I've lifted the lid to share with anyone that wants to listen.
* Being that Waiting For Patience was released earlier this year why release HurtLoveBox so soon?
Well Waiting For Patience was just an acoustic EP and was done independently in its entirety, HurtLoveBox is a full length studio album. Heartfelt and real from start to finish. And I also had the pleasure of working with multi platinum mixer/producer Rob Chiarelli so it's been an awesome experience, and I'm excited for people to hear my songs in full force.
* How will HurtLoveBox differ from Waiting For Patience?
It's approach and angle is more aggressive than Waiting for Patience. Dark and soulful when it has to be, but then upbeat and positive when it needs to be.. It takes you on a journey.
* What makes Mark Ballas different from other singer/songwriters out there?
My guitar style is my own, incorporating flamenco rhythms, interesting rhythmical finger picking on a steel string Martin Acoustic. And I write about personal experiences, but in a non selfish manner so people can feel and understand and also relate to my lyrics and think to themselves "I've been there before."
* Do you feel that your status as a professional dancer will help or hinder your musical career/plans?
Well dancing is how I make a living and has always been a big part of my life that I love..
But music is my passion and Is something separate from dance, but something I have been doing equally as long. Who said in life you can only do one thing? :)
One advantage dancing has giving me is a sharp and unique outlook on timing and rhythm and accuracy..
* Describe your live show in two words...
Entertaining and musical
* What do what you want a person to walk away with after seeing you live?
I want people to see I am a real musician and guitar player, and leave feeling that they could relate to my lyrics and emotions I spill into my songs, and also leave wanting more because they were entertained and felt like they were a part of the performance.
* Other than getting your music out there what are you most looking forward to on your upcoming solo tour?
Just getting to travel and play live shows. And meet new people and have fun with my two musicians traveling with me. And share my music and art with those that decide to join me at my shows.
* What do you think will surprise people (fans and non-fans alike) when they see you perform?
I think people that have never seem me perform my music live Will be taken back by my guitar playing and musician ship... My shows are fun and entertaining and I like to involve the audience.
* What does 2011 have in-store for you?
I am blessed to get to share this album and my music. And hoping that I get to touch many fans and Music lovers with it in 2011. | 
