Mark King

Mark King (born 20 March 1958 in Cowes on the Isle of Wight) is a British singer, bassist, and songwriter best known as the front‑man and driving rhythmic force behind the jazz‑fusion pop group Level 42. His distinctive slap‑style bass technique helped define the band's sound throughout the 1980s, producing chart‑topping hits such as “Lessons Learned,” “The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up),” and the Grammy‑nominated “Something About You.” King’s musical journey began in his teenage years, playing in local bands before forming the short‑lived group Re‑Flex and later joining the progressive rock outfit Mikrosketch. In 1980, he co‑founded Level 42 with guitarist Mike Lindup and drummer Phil Gould, quickly securing a recording contract with Polydor Records. Over the next two decades, King not only provided charismatic lead vocals but also contributed to the band's songwriting, arranging, and production, earning him a reputation as a versatile multi‑instrumentalist and a compelling live performer. Beyond his work with Level 42, King has cultivated a successful solo career, releasing albums such as One Man (1998) and Burning The Light (2001), which showcase his ability to blend funk, jazz, and pop influences. He has collaborated with a diverse roster of artists, including Phil Collins, Mike Lindup on various side projects, and contributed bass tracks to recordings by Joni Mitchell and Mika. King’s expertise has also been sought after in the realm of music education; he regularly conducts bass clinics worldwide, sharing his innovative techniques with aspiring musicians. Recognized for his contributions to the British music scene, he has received multiple awards, including the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) award for best bass player. Today, Mark King continues to tour internationally, both with Level 42 and as a solo act, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential bassists of his generation.