Mark Raymond King, born on October 20, 1958, in Cowes, Isle of Wight, is a renowned English musician, best known as the lead singer and bassist of the jazz-funk band Level 42. Raised in a modest household, King developed a passion for music early, starting as a drummer at nine and later picking up the guitar. By the age of 15, he had met Phil Gould, with whom he would later form Level 42. Despite beginning his career as a drummer, King transitioned to bass guitar after moving to London at 19 and securing a job at a music store, Macari's.
In 1979, King co-founded Level 42 with Phil Gould, Mike Lindup, and Boon Gould, quickly becoming known for his innovative slap bass technique. The band gained prominence with hits like "Love Games" and "The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up)". King’s bass playing style, characterized by rapid "machine-gun" thumb slaps and pops, became iconic in the 1980s.
Beyond Level 42, King collaborated with artists such as Nik Kershaw, Midge Ure, and David Bowie. He also pursued solo projects, releasing albums like "Influences" (1984) and "One Man" (1998). In the 2000s, King continued touring and released live recordings under his label, Summerhouse Record.
King remains active in the music scene, joining the supergroup Gizmodrome in 2016. A dedicated supporter of The Prince's Trust, he also serves as a tourism ambassador for the Isle of Wight. King resides on the Isle of Wight with his family.
