A British musician who played bass and wrote songs for the band Collabro, winning Britain's Got Talent in 2014. Known for his classical crossover music and powerful vocals.
Mark Clarke, born on July 25, 1950, in Liverpool, England, is a renowned English musician, bass player, and singer, best known for his work with Colosseum and Mountain, as well as brief stints with Uriah Heep and Rainbow.
Clarke's musical journey began at the age of 12, when he was inspired by the Beatles and other Liverpool bands. He started playing the bass and formed his first band, the Kegmen, in 1966. This was followed by stints with the Locomotive and St. James Infirmary in 1968. The Liverpool Echo dubbed him the "Joe Cocker of Liverpool," acknowledging his remarkable talent.
In 1970, Clarke joined Colosseum, a British jazz-rock band, at the invitation of Jon Hiseman. He played with the band until its initial split in 1971 and again from 1994 to 2015. During his time with Colosseum, Clarke honed his skills and developed his unique bass playing style, which would become a hallmark of his career.
After Colosseum's initial split, Clarke had brief stints with Uriah Heep, contributing to their 1972 album Demons and Wizards, and Tempest, with whom he recorded two studio albums and a live album. He also worked with Ken Hensley on his solo albums.
In 1975, Clarke formed Natural Gas with Joey Molland, Jerry Shirley, and Peter Wood. He also had a short stint with Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow. In the 1980s, he worked extensively with Billy Squier, recording several albums, including Dont Say No, The Stroke, and In the Dark.
In the 1980s, Clarke also toured with the Monkees and worked with Davy Jones. He had two spells with Mountain, Ian Hunter, and Torque, recording albums with each of them.
In 2010, Clarke released his first solo album, Moving to the Moon, which showcased his versatility as a musician. Throughout his career, Clarke has been known for his incredible bass playing, virtuosic skills, and adaptability, which have made him a sought-after musician.
Mark Clarke's legacy lies in his significant contributions to the world of rock music, particularly with Colosseum and Mountain. His unique bass playing style and ability to work with a diverse range of artists have earned him a place among the most respected musicians in the industry.
Mark Clarke's incredible career has spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock music. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
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