Chris Marks
Lead vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Chris was born November 21, 1972, in Albemarle N.C. Music has always been a staple in his life. Whether it be southern gospel, classical, country, rock or beach he listens to it all. His ipod play list reads like a “best of” for all genres.
Chris began performing at a young age for backyard BBQ’s and family gatherings. Now he’s moved forward and has performed on several stages like Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Childress Vineyards, Broadway at the Beach, Carowinds, Dale Earnhardt Incorporated and Charlotte Motor Speedway to name a few. Always eager to play when and where ever is available he’s always looking for the next opening.
Kenny Sparx – Bass, utility and vocals
Kenny comes from a musical family, as his father was a touring
professional musician. Beginning with his first piano lesson at age 5, which led to his first professional performance with a national act at the ripe old age of 12 years old, his love for music and for his craft have continued to grow and expand throughout his impressive career!
Kenny is a music theory nut who loves figuring out complicated chords and vocal harmonies. He is a talented multi-instrumentalist and a gifted high first tenor. He has toured with many national acts, as both a Musical Director and Band Member, and has also opened for numerous national acts. Kenny is also a BMI registered songwriter and publisher. He has written a number of songs that have been recorded by regional and national artists and has had chart success in several genres. His prodigious musical and writing experiences and successes are an exciting addition to the Chris Marks Band.
Reid Atwood – Lead Guitar
Reid was born June 16, 1970, in Fayetteville, NC. At the young age of 11 he gained interest in the guitar after the birth of MTV music videos. He begged his parents for a guitar until they were finally convinced that it was a great idea. With his new guitar and his best friend on the drums they set out on a mission to start their first neighborhood band. To this day, Reid continues to play as it brings out that kid in him.
At the age of 18, Reid moved to Florida to focus on college and a career and is now co-founder of a software, training and communications business in Naples, FL – 4What.com. In 2010, Reid relocated to Charlotte with his wife and children, and opened a satellite office. Getting back closer to what he still calls home and his grass roots.
For more than 20 years Reid has played music with a wide variety of talented musicians ranging from Christian, Bluegrass, Blues, Country, Classic, Rock and Acoustic which has provided him a highly diverse style and range of experience to play almost anything. Today as the newest member of the Chris Marks Band Reid is all fired up and ready to Rock You Charlotte!
Julius Kucsma – Keys
Julius Kucsma is a classically trained pianist with years of stage experience. Hailing from a small town in CT, he is well traveled playing shows all over the US. After playing the music scene of southern CA for 20 years, Julius and his family relocated to NC. He’s been performing with the Chris Marks Band for 5 years and is a integral part of the band. Be sure to talk to him at a show. You won’t forget it!
Todd Grubb – Drums
Supplying the rock solid grove and wide pocket on the drums for the Chris Marks Band is Mr. Todd Grubb. Todd is a consummate professional and has been playing in regional powerhouse bands for over 25 years. Listening to and watching Todd play is fun and his approach to his instrument makes each time on stage an enjoyable experience for his bandmates and for the audience. His outgoing personality makes Todd easy to talk to and, he frequently mingles with the crowd on band breaks when the show allows or on festival dates, can be found interacting with members of other bands and members of the audience. It is easy to see that he enjoys playing when you experience the enthusiasm and energy that he plays with on stage. Bands that he has been a member of have opened for a significant number of national artists and he is equally comfortable on large stages or performing for corporate/private events.
Todd currently resides in Rock Hill, SC and along with being a top notch drummer; he also has experience as a producer of music as well. Todd professionalism, approachable nature and enjoyment of his craft work together to help make Chris Marks Band shows fun for all involved!
Blake Hassan – Lead Guitar
Blake grew up in Welch WV, a small town in the coalfields of southern West Virginia. He caught the music bug in his early teens, and began playing clubs and other gigs at age 14. His early influences were mostly rock and southern rock guitarists, which later spread to various other genres. Blake spent several years in Louisiana while in college, where he was exposed to and influenced by a wide variety of rock, blues, jazz, and country artists. He has consistently played music most of his life, gaining years and stage and studio experience. Blake’s love of music and the live crowd experience keep him motivated and inspired.