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Jun 8, 2019 · As the scintillating bassist in one of planet’s hottest bands Mark King spent the 80s living it up till the sun went down. There were parties with Madonna and Tina Turner, private jets, Aston...
Mark Raymond King (born 20 October 1958) is an English musician. He is the lead singer and bassist of the jazz-funk band Level 42. King is known for his slap style of playing the bass guitar, with MusicRadar describing him as "the guy who put the slap in pop during the 80s". [1]
Oct 3, 2023 · Mark King of Level 42 on the story behind ‘The Sun Goes Down (Livin’ It Up)’. The songwriter, vocalist and bassist takes us behind the curtain of one of his band’s most memorable tracks. “Look, it’s a feel-good track…” says Mark King, attempting to understand the impossible mystery of a song’s enduring legacy.
- Cowes Roots: King's story begins in Cowes, where the singer was born and raised, while his early musical influences were shaped by the vibrant local music scene.
- The Slap Bass Technique: Mark King's distinctive bass guitar style, known as the "slap" technique, is one of the defining features of his music. His innovative approach to playing the bass has earned him praise from musicians and fans alike during his career.
- Rise to International Fame: Level 42, the band fronted by King, achieved significant success on the international stage. With hit songs like "Lessons in Love" and "Running in the Family," the band's infectious jazz-funk sound captivated audiences worldwide during the 80s.
- An Inspiration for Musicians: Mark King's remarkable bass guitar skills have inspired countless musicians, both aspiring and established. His technical prowess and dynamic performances continue to influence a new generation of bassists.
Oct 12, 2022 · Mark King’s hard-hitting bass pyrotechnics with Level 42 became the driving force behind many of the band’s Top 40 hits and paved the way for slap-bass playing in mainstream 80s pop. The group notched up 20 UK Top 40 hits throughout the 80s before eventually disbanding in 1994.
- Nick Wells
Feb 12, 2015 · Level 42’s Mark King speaks to movingtheriver.com about his classic 1984 solo album Influences, released by Polydor in July 1984.
Feb 4, 2022 · Level 42 formed back in 1980 featuring Mark King’s lead vocals and distinctive thumb-slap bass guitar grooves. King was joined by Mike Lindup (keyboards & backing vocals) as well as brothers Boon (guitar) and Phil (drums) Gould.
