Claim to fame: General manager of Blu Lounge and Hyde, Robin Thicke look-a-like.
So, how’d you get into the club business?
I worked in fiber optics from an office in my home when I was 20, so I had time to moonlight. I built a point-of-sale computer program for a buddy in Kansas City, and I got to spend a year in his bar learning how to track bar sales and do inventory. His staff taught me how to bartend once I turned 21. It paid pretty good money on the side, and I really enjoyed it. My family owns several bars in Indy, and I wanted to be closer to them, so I moved here and stayed in the business.
What do you love/hate about the club business?
When I first started, I thought working in a club was a cool way to pick up girls. Now, not so much. I just really love the energy of the business — so that, plus the people I meet and work with, make it a fun experience. There’s not really anything I hate — the long hours can be a pain sometimes, but it’s all worth it.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to promote a club?
We own a bar in Nashville, and I spent a year there getting it ready to open. The bar scene is tough in Nashville because there’s so much competition, so a buddy and I resorted to guerilla marketing. We got a megaphone, a big sign with the words “FREE BEER,” a keg of beer and stood on the corner yelling, “FREE BEER!” People actually came ... and when the free beer was gone, they paid for more.
Anything exciting coming up?
On June 19, we’re bringing Kat Deluna to Hyde. We’re doing a partnership with Radio Now, so make sure to listen to get the details. She’ll be performing her new single, “Push Push.”
You’ve got a movie-star look. Ever get compared to someone famous?
Yes! Women tell me all the time that I look like Robin Thicke. I don’t think so, but I hear it often.
What song do you sing along to when no one else is around?
“G Thang,” by Dr. Dre.
Who’s YOUR favorite local celebrity?
Dr. Joe Koehler, a well-known local chiropractor. He’s an LFC fighter and an all-around great guy. He’s well-respected in the community, very friendly and down-to-earth, but he’s a total badass.
Indianapolis: Love it or leave it?
Love it! I love the Midwest mentality, and the weather here is GREAT. I moved here from Kansas City, and the people in Indy are much friendlier.
Local celebrity: Blu's Marc Cocke
Keianna Rae Harrison
Special to MetromixJune 15, 2010
(Credit: Gary Moore / Metromix)




What other people are saying...
Lesalina - June 17, 2010 at 9:02 AM
Marc is a great guy. Always friendly, always professional - nice to see him featured!
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