Mark King
from Level 42

Funk popsters Level 42 were formed in 1980. In their 14 year history they made 17 albums, had 29 hit singles, and their song 'Lessons In Love' hit the number one spot in 17 countries.

Mark started his musical life as a drummer, but became the bass player and frontman when he co-founded Level 42. Mark's 'slap' style of bass playing and the high position that he wore his guitar became iconic, and the bass sound he produced was a pioneering one in the pop world.

Level 42 had six top ten hits in their career. 'Lessons In Love' was their biggest success, in the UK it reached number 3 in April 1986. Other hits included 'Something About You' and 'Running In The Family'.

Mark has released two solo albums. In 1984 whilst still in the group he releases 'Influences', allegedly written because he needed a new house. Four years after the band's split in 1998 he recorded 'One Man', an album that was made up of songs originally intended to be performed by other artists.

He is now enjoying a more relaxed, semi-retired route, publishing his music in small amounts for a dedicated band of fans.

We asked Mark:

(o)   What are you up to these days?
(o)   Do you admire any of the new generation of bands?
(o)   Is there a thriving music scene on the Isle of Wight?
(o)   Is it true that you were forced into playing the bass after starting out on drums, and is that where your use of the 'slap' style of bass started?
(o)   Do you get an over-developed thumb from playing that way?

Click here to read a transcript of the interview