Duke (Vocalists)
Duke are two vocalists, now attempting to introduce acoustic sets into their performances, playing mostly covers with some original material. Specialise in close harmonies in a wide range of genres.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Duke originally formed in late 1997 when Rich Clark and Mark Slade met up and began to add various harmonies whilst other people were trying to sing! Duke went 'live' in Feb '98, with a first gig at The Bell, in Sandy, Bedfordshire, who kindly donated free time in their Function Room to Duke to practise. With the help of their manager, Phil Felstead, the schedule began filling up and Duke played across the South-East of England, earning their best venue - The Rivermill Tavern, Eaton Socon, Beds. - when Rich took down his guitar after hours and the boys would sing week after week until they were offered a regular gig. The pair recorded a CD in June '98 at Bleu Bass Studios and distributed it to the industry. In 2000, Slade left to seek solo fame and, in a fairytale story, Rich and Phil hired ex-roadie and sound engineer Mark Eaton to sing. Mark brought a new style and a bucket load of different material with him. Rich and Mark have honed their craft for the previous 6 years, attempting to change with the times. Due to a booking mix-up one month in 2005, Duke ended up playing the same venue within a 2 week-period, and decided to spice up the 2nd gig by playing half a set of acoutic-only material. This set a popular trend and the boys are currently attempting to put together enough songs to perform an acoustic set.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Been singing live for 8 years, introducing new material, additional instruments and styles along the way. Love performing, especially in front of lively audiences.
Your musical influences
Both Mark and Rich have a spectrum of various tastes in music, ranging from Synth Pop to Slipknot! The range of their tastes are reflected in the material they perform - a 'something for everyone' attitude which always works on party nights. Bon Jovi and Thunder are particular favourites.
What equipment do you use?
Always Shure mics - cordless SM58, SM68LX or Beta 58. Rich uses Korg M1 keyboard (classic)and Yamaha guitars. Mark also uses Yamaha guitars.
Anything else?
Although regarded as singers and performers, both Mark and Rich have a strong instrumental background. Mark, whilst also working as a live audio engineer, is also an accomplished drummer and has played drums and bass guitar in previous bands. Rich is a classically trained pianist, and a fine busker!
