SPECIAL NOTE: June 07, 2013: I have not read the below bio for quite some time. During the past year or so, I have blocked numerous comments (most of which contain profanity) made by others about Marino's activities. I've been aware of his legal problems but since this is neither a dedication website nor an "honoree" website but simply a collection of my photos with a few comments, I ignored the commentary. Marino is now serving time in jail (I believe 8 years and then he will be deported back to the UK immediately) for fraud and other ponzi scheme activities with his so called "charities." He did bilk tens of thousands (or hundreds of thousands...perhaps more) from numerous individuals. This is is very sad. Marino was always kind to me and a good client (and I've had some turkeys to be sure). I will leave this page up though, as I thought he was a great guitarist and there were a couple of photos of him that I liked. I am not endorsing him or his actions and I am glad he was caught and is serving his time.

Old thoughts before I knew better:

British born Marino De Silva is truly an icon of rock and roll. I sensed it when I first met him and then again when I met him next at his Gold Record release party. When I went to his beautiful home to conduct an interview for a local magazine, it was all confirmed. Sitting at his kitchen table with his family room behind me, I could not help but turn around frequently to stare at the walls and walls of plaques, Gold and Platinum records, special thank you plaques from some of the greatest names ever (e.g., Mick Jagger, Carlos Santana and a host of others), awards, honors, trophies, and other memorabilia. But keep in mind, Marino is not a name dropper; he does not allow his alliances with others to speak for him. This quiet, modest man with the constant smile allows his own works to do the speaking for him.

Marino’s musical style is enchanting. I hear a multitude of influences in his playing, fused into his own personal style. However, Marino is more than rock n' roll. His CD, “Blues For Lovers” is quickly becoming one of my favorites, with it’s sensual, lush sounds coupled with a solid blues beat, it envelopes and enchants. I can't recommend it highly enough, especially if you're looking for that special "romance" blues-flavored CD.

Marino’s fame and fortune is shared as well. His work through his charity organization, “Angels Across America” has raised funds for everything from the 9/11 Firefighters to The American Red Cross to assisting Iraqi war veterans returning home to face the challenges of life beginning anew. His work has also provided musical instruments for needy and deserving young children. A link to his charity can be accessed on his website at:www.marinodesilva.com or his MySpace site at: www.myspace.com/marinorocks