Mark Lorenz

Mark Lorenz’s passion for music started early.  While traveling throughout North America, competing in horse shows with his parents; one could always hear Mark singing along to the likes of Marty Robbins, George Strait, Merle Haggard, Alan Jackson, Bryan Adams and John Cougar Mellencamp. Mark's first studio experience was brought about by a dare to record a country song for a friend’s birthday. From there, Mark's passion for country music escaladed from singing a few tunes for family and friends to eventually performing at local venues.

In 1996, Mark had the opportunity to showcase within the “squared circle” at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.  This prestigious opportunity only amplified his passion for country music. Mark recruited his band, and began touring extensively throughout Canada and the USA, at clubs such as Caravan in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Saddlelite in Rock Springs, Wyoming; Houston's in Brandon, Manitoba; and Coyote's in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Mark went back to the studio to record a 5 song EP called Reputation in 1998. He released the title track “Reputation” to radio across Canada and received some solid airplay. Mark filled his calendar with 48 weeks of the year out on tour, including a spot at the Merritt Mountain Music Jamboree.

In 2006, Mark recorded his sophomore CD Black, a ten song album (9 of which Mark wrote himself), including the single “Sweet Summer Nights” which was written for the Airdrie Pro Rodeo Association.  The CD release party was held in front of a hometown crowd of 10,000 people.  Four singles from the album; "Hillbilly State Of Mind," "Wouldn't Change A Thing," "The Way She Walks Away" and "Sweet Summer Nights;" received airplay on Canadian country radio. Mark continued to play venues across the country including Big Valley Jamboree, Telus Country Music Festival, and Airdrie Pro Rodeo.

Since 1997 this native Albertan has frequently traveled back and forth to Nashville honing his writing skills. Pairing with numerous seasoned songwriters in Nashville and Canada; this combination has attributed in the development of the singles on his newest CD "Route 72", released in spring 2009.  The album taps into Mark’s writing creativity and includes the first single released to radio across Canada, “You Wreck Me” which was co-written with Julian Austin. Branded with his own country twist, Mark does a countryfied upbeat remake of the John Fogerty tune, “Centerfield.”  This summer Mark filmed two videos in support of the album, “Somewhere in Alberta” and “Like A Radio,” the current single at Canadian radio.

A born entertainer, Mark's likes to give back to the community, from hosting his annual charity golf tournament, to entertaining on many other charity event stages.  He continues to play festivals, jamborees as well as finding himself front and centre stage opening for artists ranging from Road Hammers, Clay Walker, Tracy Byrd, Emerson Drive, Johnny Reid to Trooper and April Wine.

Mark's music is a blend of hard core country, hillbilly rock, and spiced with some good ole southern rock.  This seasoned singer/songwriter's continuous ability to enthrall audiences leaves even the reluctant ... hollering for more after each performance.