Mark Hofgard
I grew up in Boulder Colorado. Probably the only place where you could be a hippie, redneck, and new ager rolled into one. My mother (Edna) made me take piano lessons. I worked hard, learned to play some other instruments, played the requisite junior high school rock band, then quit for 20 years. Careers in law, business, consulting, and raising a family were the most important things. It was both challenging and rewarding. I worked with my Dad (Bill) for many years and we did well and had fun. Then I went out to the corporate world but it didn't last too long. I always stayed close to nature. I learned to climb mountains, ski pretty hard stuff, do martial arts, run ultra-marathons, backpack, and even surf. I really like surfing, even though I'm pretty average. The waves aren't that great here in Arizona....we get over to Baja every so often. As of today I have 52 turns of the planet, a wonderful second wife and life partner (Tonya), three awesome adult children (Lucas, Heather & Katie). Life is just starting! I get out in the desert every week to hike and be with the planet. The Sonoran desert is a magical place. There is life all around, and there is usually nobody out there to bug you. About 10 years ago somebody said that my music sounded pretty good. I had long since quit reading music. It was just coming from my head and heart. I started recording, met some talented people including my brother Kurt (guitar), and hired a great publicist to get some radio play and media attention. THE OPENING did real well, and still feeds the hearts of many. I worked with Tom Capek ( performed and/or recorded with Dotsero, Nelson Rangell, Chris Daniels, and many more), Chris Ball (former Firefall band member), Taylor Mesple (Windmachine, unbelievable talent!), Amy Sapp (magical vocalist), and my brother Kurt Hofgard (best guitar player on the planet!). I do most of my work at a new home studio and two professional studios - Colorado Sound Studios in Denver, and Tall Cat Productions in Phoenix. You need these guys to get a really good sound. My philosophy is that each song must be complete and perfect in its own right - it must take you inside and unlock streams of thought and feelings for you. If my music can make you feel something that you enjoy and appreciate, then I've done my job. Soon I will be adding other artists to the NakedExpressions Music label. These are well-respected musicians with really top-notch music. I hope that you will enjoy my new music, and all future releases..