The music in Mark's life really began mostly with his mother.
She played Cello with the Chicago Symphony. Mark grew up
listening to classical and jazz, which both his parents enjoyed
and played 'loudly' on their old record player. (remember those?)
Although Mark started out playing trumpet in the 5th grade, it
was not until high school that Mark started playing drums. He
played with rock & roll bands that traveled around the Northwest.
He soon found out that he liked playing other styles of music as well.
After several years, Mark found work with a show band out of
Oakland, California. That experience gave him a broader scope in
funk and jazz and jazz fusion styles. Mark was fortunate to get to
meet and work with some great musicians along the way.
Musicians, like, Bobby Reed (The Whispers),
Genely Anderson (Flora Purim and Airto),
the late, Mike Lloyd (Stormy Weather and Relayer),
Tim Martin (Danger Potato and I.C.U.),
and Richard Rose (Rush Hour and The Visitors).
On a more local scene, Mark has worked with Tom Gunn
(MGM Recording Artist and band leader for Robert Goulet),
Matt Jones (Bluestone), and Steve Kelley (Big Daddy & the Blue Notes).
Mark has worked in bands that have been opening acts for Badfinger,
The Doobie Brothers, Steppin Wolf, Pine Top Perkins and Robert Cray.
Mark's varied musical experiences bring a strong groove and drive to
The Kenny James Miller Band. His intrinsic grasp of the 'groove' while
being able to embellish and improvise along with the musicians gives the
band a great push and feel --- Rockin Blues at it's best!
