Gary "Magic" Marker

Gary 'Magic' Marker (May 23, 1943 - December 8, 2015) was a bass guitarist and recording engineer best known for his involvement in various psychedelic rock bands of the 1960s. A bass player with jazz leanings, who had studied at Berklee College of Music, Marker was a member of the Rising Sons between 1964 and 1966, along with Ry Cooder, Taj Mahal, Ed Cassidy and Jesse Lee Kincaid. During this time he became friendly with Don Vliet (aka Captain Beefheart). He helped with Vliet's musical education and played with Captain Beefheart And His Magic Band on a number of occasions .He has played in numerous bands (and with many performers) over the years, been a regular session musician as well working as an engineer/producer. He retired from the music business but maintained an active interest (especially in Ry Cooder & Beefheart-related matters) until his death on December 8th, 2015 from a stroke.