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Mark Croft, Award Winning Original Singer/Performing Songwriter, is one of the most distinguished musicians to ignite the Acoustic Rock/Pop and Folk/Americana scene, serving up his driving hypnotic groove to unsuspecting audiences throughout the nation. His ability to navigate his six-string with sophistication, wrapping frantic acoustic riffs around unforgettable melodies, has garnered him high acclaim and recognition that raises the bar far beyond the ordinary.
Since establishing his live professional music career, Mark has achieved milestones that elevate him to new levels of success and respect. Emerging in 2005 with an unwavering jolt, Mr. Croft claimed 1st place in the Midwest Song Contest and the Inaugural American Idol Underground Rock Contest. Voted by his hometown as ‘Best New Artist” and “Best Male Vocalist” at the 2006 Madison Area Music Awards, Croft was also designated “Favorite Singer/Songwriter” by Isthmus Magazine’s Reader’s Poll and was again honored in 2008 for “Pop Artist” and “Pop Album of The Year.” He is also a popular guest artist on numerous local network news affiliates including NBC, CBS, ABC and Fox Morning News, Chicago. In addition, radio outlets across the country and Canada are spinning his tunes that can be heard on college campuses, the clear channel radio network and public access stations.
As a recording artist, Mark Croft embraces heartfelt lyrics and original compositions apparent throughout his entire repertoire. His debut CD, Sympathetic Groove (May, 2005 – Abacus Music) is a strong representation of his range of style and genre. 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 delivers. The cd’s break out hit, “Don’t Speak” further catapults Mark to prominence.
His much-anticipated 2nd release Permanent Ink EP (June 2007 – Slothrop Records) displays Mark's maturity as a songwriter as he incorporates more genres like reggae (Crooked Line) and funk (Is It Gonna Be Funky?) while managing to keep his feet firmly planted in his acoustic roots. Striking a chord and demand for more, Mark released his highly touted The Possibility of Disaster EP in the Spring of 2009 (Slothrop Records). In it, he explores his darker side, with songs of revenge (The Edge Of The City) and mayhem (Momma Don't Come Around).
Continuing to build his professional music foundation as a respected recording artist and live performer, Mark was the featured headliner for the 2009 “Midwest Acoustic Music Festival”, and continues to balance studio recording time to bring his music live to his fans. Performing more than 120 live shows per year, Mark has been honored to take the stage at a variety of prestigious venues including festivals, theaters, music clubs, casinos, and special events, just to name a few. He is always willing to lend his chops and talents for philanthropic events, penning “Break My Heart”, for Madison For World Health and most recently performing live for “Funk Out Cancer”. Mark currently tours solo, as a duo, or with his band.
MAMF09 is now taking submissions. See the MAMF myspace blog for info, or check out www. midwestacoustic. com and The Midwest Acoustic Music Festival on Facebook
Mark, my friends and I came to see you Friday night. You were great! Got a chance to chat with your parents...they are the nicest people! Tried to get Chris Kelsey to come but she had to work...hope you are enjoying your week! Ta ta ~Scotti
I can't believe its been a week since I saw you open for Idina how time flies. Like I said at the show you are really good & I don't say that to a lot of people. I look forward to hearing even more new wonderful music from you. Take Care Brent
Coming to Madison in July B4 I move on to Mexico. Are you going to be around? I want to bring Kate and I still want you to play Steal my kisses for her, from me... See you soon!
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Mark Croft, Award Winning Original Singer/Performing Songwriter, is one of the most distinguished musicians to ignite the Acoustic Rock/Pop and Folk/Americana scene, serving up his driving hypnotic groove to unsuspecting audiences throughout the nation. His ability to navigate his six-string with sophistication, wrapping frantic acoustic riffs around unforgettable melodies, has garnered him high acclaim and recognition that raises the bar far beyond the ordinary.
