Mark Rogers
Mark Rogers 
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| Born | July 20, 1958 |
| Occupation | Singer/songwriter and recording artist. |
| Website | https://MarkRogersSongs.com |
Mark Rogers (born July 20, 1958) is an American singer, songwriter, and recording artist known for his melodic indie pop and folk rock music. Since 2017, Rogers has built a reputation for his lyric-driven storytelling, blending California and British rock influences into a modern sound. His latest album, 30 Minutes from Water Street, has garnered international acclaim and marked a high point in his career.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
Mark Rogers was born and raised in Fairfax County, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, DC. He graduated from Lake Braddock Secondary School in 1976 and later from West Virginia University in 1980. Rogers' interest in music began at the age of five, inspired by The Beatles' first televised performance on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1964. He learned to play guitar with guidance from his fourth-grade teacher and friends and began writing songs in 1970 with his childhood friend, Dan Mead.
In high school, Rogers formed an acoustic trio that evolved into a four-piece country and bluegrass band named Tennessee Flying Goose. The band was one of the first to perform at the now-famous Birchmere Music Hall in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1973.
Career[edit | edit source]
After college, Rogers moved to Los Angeles to pursue a songwriting career. He performed in small clubs and music venues with a band he started alongside musician Paul Lacques. Despite his efforts, Rogers was unable to secure a record deal and returned to Washington, DC, where he set aside music to focus on a career in advertising and technology and raise two daughters.
In 2013, after relocating to Williamsburg, Virginia, Rogers reconnected with his musical roots. He recorded his debut EP, Rearranged, in 2017 at Master Sound Studios in Virginia Beach, launching a new chapter in his music career. Working with producer Rob Ulsh, Rogers recorded two additional EPs and two full-length albums, Laying It Down (2019) and Rhythm of the Roads (2021). His latest work, 30 Minutes from Water Street, produced by Mark Kenneth Williams, was released in 2024.
Musical Style and Influence[edit | edit source]
Rogers is noted for his storytelling style, often compared to James Taylor but with a distinct edge. His music combines classic rock elements with fresh chord progressions and harmonies, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and modern. His compositions have been described as "far above the ordinary," with lyrics that evoke vivid imagery and emotional resonance.
Achievements and Recognition[edit | edit source]
Rogers' music has gained international recognition. His singles "Natalie" and "To Open Your Eyes" reached the top of the Radio Indie Alliance charts in 2024, and "California 10" peaked at #8 on the iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart. His albums have been favorably reviewed by publications like Americana Highways, No Depression, The Indie Source, Lonesome Highways, and Fatea (UK). His work also charted on the EuroAmericana chart, where his previous LP debuted at #19 and maintained its position in the top 25 through December 2021.
Live Performances[edit | edit source]
Rogers typically performs solo acoustic sets, delivering his songs with humor and a down-to-earth style. Occasionally, he performs with a full band and has opened for artists such as Willie Nile, Karla Bonoff, Lucy Kaplansky, John Ford Coley, and Loudon Wainwright III.
Discography[edit | edit source]
- Rearranged (EP, 2017)
- Laying It Down (LP, 2019)
- Rhythm of the Roads (LP, 2021)
- 30 Minutes from Water Street (LP, 2024)
Notable Singles[edit | edit source]
- "California 10" (2024) - Reached #8 on iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart
- "Natalie" (2024) - #1 on Radio Indie Alliance
- "To Open Your Eyes" (2024) - #2 on Radio Indie Alliance