What is your names?
Mark Howard
What is your genre of music?
Coastal Folk/Rock
Give us a little bio about you.
Phillip Island troubadour, Mark Howard has shared his musical tales across 45 countries, earning critical acclaim in both his native Australia and across the globe. Crafting his debut album, ‘Passing Strangers,’ while navigating the global pandemic in his coastal hometown of Phillip Island, Victoria, Mark’s music blends swampy grooves with fresh melodic twists weaving between the boundaries of folk, rock, blues, and alt-country. With a rich background in theatre honing his craft on stage, Mark’s soul-stirring songwriting continues to enchant audiences, leaving an indelible mark both locally and worldwide. His talents have been recognized with multiple accolades from prestigious festivals like the Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringe.
Having graced the stage alongside iconic Australian artists such as Tim Rogers, Billy Thorpe, Ross Wilson, Tash Sultana, Alex Lloyd, Thirsty Merc, and Pete Murray, Mark has recently traversed Australia, New Zealand, and the UK on an extensive tour, promoting his album, ‘Passing Strangers.’
Mark Howard’s musical journey continues with the release of his latest single, ‘Scarlette,’ captivating listeners worldwide across all major platforms.
What made you go into music?
I performed ‘Once a Jolly Swagman’ at the school Christmas concert when I was in grade 1. I learnt the power of music and performance back then and it’s all i’ve ever wanted to do since.
Who are your influences?
Nick Cave, Tom Waits, Bertolt Brecht, Fiona Apple, Marlon Williams, Noel Fielding, The Beatles, Bruce Lee
Are you a signed?
I’m open
You released your new latest Single ‘Scarlette’, tell us more about the single and the meaning behind the song.
I once loved a girl who told me she wanted to take her own life. One day, she did. I’ve held onto a whirling dervish of emotions ever since. Those emotions have now been alchemised into the song Scarlette.
Describe each track in two words.
Wonderful Melancholy
What was the writing and recording process like?
The song was crafted over a few years, with different bands and various arrangements. I even pitched it to part of a theatrical production of the Greek tradgedy, Electra. It finally had wings when I bought the song to producer Dave Prideaux who helped mould it into what we hear today.
Who did you work with on the single?
Dave Prideaux produced it and played a few instruments, fellow Island native Maddy May chimed in on some backing vocals and Graham King layed down the sweet drum groove. Andy Stewart mastered the track and sprinkled fairy dust all over it.
Are we expected to see a music video for I’ Scarlett’, and if so what can expect from it?
An animated video that takes you on a deep dive into an underwater abyss is out now on Youtube.
Do you have any live shows coming up?
March 3rd – Mordi Fest, Mordialloc, Melbourne
March 8th – Adelaide Fringe Festival, Shotgun Willie’s
March 9th – Adelaide Fringe Festival, Nola
March 15th – Westernport Hotel, San Remo
Touring Tasmania over Easter
Let us know where we can get tickets if so.
www.markhowardmusic.com
What else can we expect in 2024?
Two more singles and an album before the end of the year. Touring the UK and Australia
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
Adding narrative to my live shows and giving my audience a more theatrical experience.
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
Breath
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
The chords
The lyrics
Don’t rush
Have fun
Make friends with the sound technician
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
