The music of Vortexan is generated by two guys who met back in high school. Michael Marks and Rod Brinkley graduated from the West Texas town of Monahans in 1972. We started our musical journey at that time and continue today. Although "Vortexan" is my handle in forums - when it comes to the music, there are two of us. I play all the guitars and do the vocals, Rod Brinkley handles the drumming on his Roland V-Drums.
One day in the 9th grade I was having breakfast with my Dad before we both got a haircut. He asked me what I wanted for christmas and I said an electric guitar never dreaming he might say OK. You know always bid high!! He then said, all right if you'll promise me that it won't sit in the closet, Santa will bring you one. I said I promise, and that was the best christmas present my parents ever gave me! When I awoke that christmas morning there was a beautiful sunburst Montgomery-Wards Teisco guitar and amp combo - WOW. Wish I still had it....... I've been playing guitar for 39 years now. Doesn't seem that long but it has. I've played in rock bands, country bands, duos, trios and solo. Done numerous dances and entertainment venues in West Texas where I used to call home. These days I'm calling the Houston area home. I am content to make music now in my home studio where I keep all my toys. I'm lucky enough that my best friend from high school Rod lives near me and is a part of this project and does all the drumming.
I got away from doing live shows. I have in the past done numerous dances, and festivals, and club shows. Also played as a solo, duo, as well as trios at gigs. Played in Country as well as Rock oriented Bands.
I grew up in the West Texas town of Wink. Same hometown as Roy Orbison. I remember as a kid growing up in Wink, Roy coming back for a homecoming football game, and driving a beautiful blue corvette. Like many of the little kids at the game I tore off a piece of my popcorn box, and bothered him for an autograph. He was very gracious and humble. I can't help but be influenced by his music having grown up in that town. The Beatles also figure prominently in my early influences, as well as Merle Haggard, Bob Wills, Willie Nelson, Johnny Horton, Ray Price, as well as most all things on KOMA radio in the 1960's.
Fender Stratocaster
Line 6 Variax 700
Martin HD -28
SX - Bass
Boutique Tweed 5E3 Deluxe
POD X3
Boss GT-3
Boss BR-1600 CD
Roland V-Drums
Thanks for dropping by and giving Vortexan a listen!!!
