Mark Croft is a Madison, WI based singer/songwriter, whose talents as a writer, performer, and acoustic guitarist have garnered him critical praise and public attention quickly gaining him recognition as one of the rising stars of the Midwest music scene. Known for his unforgettable melodies and infectious grooves, Croft breaks the genre barriers to create a mainstream sound from the heart of a folk musician.
One of the A&R reps in attendance that night quickly signed Mark to record label Abacus-Music who released Mark’s debut CD, Sympathetic Groove in the closing months of 2005. The CD is a strong representation of Mark’s ability to wrap frantic acoustic riffs around unforgettable melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Whether it’s a groovin’ pick-me-up to a friend (Angela), a bluesy woman-done-me wrong tale (She’s a Landslide), or his power-funk anti-war cry (America). Sympathetic Groove perfectly captures Mark’s talents. Radio stations around the US found reason to spin Mark’s rocker “Don’t Speak” launching it to the number one spot on 15 stations!
Croft debuted his much-anticipated 2nd release "Permanent Ink" in June of 2007. The 5-song EP displays Mark's maturity as a songwriter as he explores genres like reggae (Crooked Line) and funk (Is It Gonna Be Funky?) while managing to keep feet firmly planted in his acoustic roots. The album also demonstrates Croft’s mainstream appeal with the title track finding its way into the queue for several hit TV shows including Grey’s Anatomy.
Not merely a solo performer, Croft began assembling his current band in the summer of 2005 when he teamed up with violinist extraordinaire Juila McConahay. Croft and the former Madison Green fiddler quickly developed a repertoire of lively acoustic jams and engaging duo performances. In early 2007, Croft joined forces w/ guitarist Dan Kennedy, bassist Matt Rodgers, keyboardist Jaye Barbeau and long-time drummer Robert Boyd to form the latest version of the Mark Croft Band.
The last few years have seen Mark taking home a slew of awards and honors. Croft started 2006 with a bang claiming 1st place in the Midwest Song Contest (Don't Speak) and the Inaugural American Idol Underground Rock Contest (America), and his hometown saw fit to name him "Best New Artist' and "Best Male Vocalist" at the 2006 Madison Area Music Awards in March. More recently, Croft was voted Madison's "Favorite Singer/Songwriter" by Isthmus Magazine's Reader's Poll.
While not yet a household name Mark Croft is quickly becoming a favorite of radio stations and performance venues around the country. Give his new CD “Permanent Ink” a listen; we think he’ll become one of your favorites too.
