Of Mars; warlike
A surname-turned-first name likely derived from the Roman name Marcellus, meaning 'of Mars.' It is deeply associated with the prestigious Marsalis family of jazz musicians, giving it a sophisticated, rhythmic quality.
Less common today
Marsalis isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,323 in 1992.
Pulitzer Prize-winning jazz trumpeter and composer
Grammy-winning saxophonist and bandleader
Acclaimed jazz trombonist and producer
Jazz drummer and vibraphonist
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
