JOHN MARCUS aka "MARKISS", GUITARIST EXTRAORDINAIRE , VOCALIST, MUSIC DIRECTOR, BAND LEADER, PRODUCER AND SONGWRITER.
Markiss, guitarist, singer and songwriter earned his world class reputation in Chicago as a national and international touring band member with blues legends Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. Over the course of Markiss' career, his list of national and international credits has established him as a world class blues guitarist. Markiss has the distinction, along side Hubert Sumlin, as the only guitarist still alive to have been an actual member of both the legendary Muddy Waters' and Howlin' Wolf Blues bands.
Markiss joined Howlin' Wolf's band in 1978 and toured the U.S. with sideman Eddie Shaw, Detroit Junior and Hubert Sumlin. In 1980 Markiss reached a pinnacle for any guitarist when he was asked to join the Muddy Waters Blues Band. Muddy's favorite blues guitarist was Johnny Winter. Muddy chose Markiss saying "your sound is the closest thing to Johnny I've heard yet." Markiss joined forces with Mojo Buford, Lovee Lee and Ray "KIller" Allison for a world tour. Playing with Muddy solidified Markiss' reputation as one of Chicago's premier Blues guitarists.
Markiss toured Europe and the U.S. with Memphis soul legends Al Green, Ann Peebles, Otis Clay, and Syl Johnson as lead guitarist and musical tour director. His touring credits also include R&B legends The Spinners and reggae superstars Judy Mowatt, John Holt, the Wailers and UB40. In his 30 years, Markiss has also shared the stage with BB King, Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, Robert Cray, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page and The Neville Brothers to mention a few (see entire list here).
His solid experience as a guitarist, musical director, and touring musician, has given him the roots and foundation to carry on the history and tradition of Blues music. With a unique style and interpretation rooted from his native Chicago, Markiss embodies the spirit of the legends that taught and molded him, giving a dynamic electric blues performance that mesmerizes audiences around the world.
