Keyboardist and vocalist for Frank Zappa's band, known for his energetic stage presence and versatility in playing a wide range of musical styles.
Tommy Mars, born Thomas Mariano on October 26, 1951, is an American keyboard player renowned for his work with the legendary Frank Zappa. As a core member of Zappa's touring band from 1977 to 1982, Mars brought his exceptional synthesizer expertise to the table, contributing to some of Zappa's most iconic albums and performances.
Mars' musical journey began at the tender age of eight, when he started taking piano lessons. As he grew older, his instrument range expanded to encompass various keyboards and synthesizers. He graduated from the Hartt College of Music in West Hartford, Connecticut, in 1972.
Post-graduation, Mars struggled to find stability in the music industry, taking on a variety of jobs including choirmaster, church organist, and movie accompanist. However, it was his stint as a revolving organ bar pianist in Kodiak, Alaska, that left an indelible mark on his career. As he recalled in a 1980 Keyboard magazine interview, "I was working in this revolving organ bar in Kodiak, Alaska, with Japanese and Russian fishermen kicking me in the back if I couldn't play an ethnic folk song to their drunken satisfaction."
Mars' big break came when percussionist Ed Mann, a member of Zappa's group, recommended him to audition for Zappa's band. Impressed by Mars' synthesizer expertise, Zappa hired him on the spot. From 1977 to 1982, Mars was an integral part of Zappa's touring band, appearing in the iconic film Baby Snakes and recording several albums, including Zappa in New York, Sheik Yerbouti, and Shut Up 'n Play Yer Guitar.
After parting ways with Zappa, Mars continued to tour and record with notable artists such as Steve Vai and Stuart Hamm. In the mid-1990s, he formed The Banned From Utopia, a tribute band comprising 10 Zappa alumni, dedicated to performing Zappa's music.
In 2007, Mars collaborated with Jon Larsen on the jazz hybrid album Strange News From Mars, featuring an impressive lineup of Zappa alumni, including Bruce Fowler, Jimmy Carl Black, and Arthur Barrow. He also made a brief appearance on The Jimmy Carl Black Story in 2008.
In 2009, Mars released No Forest Fire, a recording featuring members of The Band From Utopia, including Bruce Fowler, Walt Fowler, Kurt McGettrick, Larry Klimas, Arthur Barrow, and Vinnie Colaiuta. The following year, he recorded the surrealistic audio book Willie.
Tommy Mars' contributions to Frank Zappa's music and legacy are undeniable. As a virtuosic keyboard player, he brought a unique dimension to Zappa's sound, influencing a generation of musicians. Through his work with The Banned From Utopia and various collaborations, Mars has ensured that Zappa's music continues to thrive, inspiring new audiences and cementing his own place in the annals of music history.
While Mars has not received any major awards, his work with Frank Zappa and his continued contributions to the music world have earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Little is known about Mars' personal life, but his sense of humor and willingness to take on unconventional gigs, such as the revolving organ bar in Kodiak, Alaska, speak to his adventurous spirit.
In conclusion, Tommy Mars' remarkable career, spanning over four decades, is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his enduring legacy in the world of music. As a keyboard maestro, he continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians, ensuring that the music of Frank Zappa and beyond lives on.
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