Local artiste Mr Martino ‘Tino’ Mark is adding to the VI Emancipation Festival hype with his latest single release, ‘Junkie’. Photo: Provided

Martino ‘Tino’ Mark’s life is all about music, and as a member of Tino and the Hard Core Band, Tino is always busy working to improve his craft or out with his band members playing at various venues, home and abroad. Photo: Provided

Talented singer and musician, Martino 'Tino' Mark is the lead singer of Tino & The Hard Core Band. Photo: Provided

Speaking exclusively to our news reporter, Tino stated that his inspiration and target for writing “Junkie” originated from the idea of the carnival experience.

“Festival for me is people getting together and meeting people that you haven’t seen in a while. From the musical aspect, it’s about creating music that people can move to and enjoy themselves in the parties and during carnival season,” explained Mr Mark.

He continued, “So it’s all about love, unity and remembering the people who came before us. The whole meaning of the festival is emancipation.”

Produced, mixed and mastered by Alton Bertie of ABX, the song was released on June 26, 2017 and is already on the airwaves throughout the island of Tortola.

“I chose to release the song in Tortola first and from there, I will be sending it throughout the rest of the islands. Since the release, the song has been receiving great feedback from the fans,” said Tino.

During the interview, Tino expressed that a video for the song “Junkie”, will be released at a later date.

The song is not yet available in stores but it can be heard on social media, including soundcloud, his Facebook page, Tino Marks and Alton Bertie’s twitter page.

What’s next for Tino?

His life is all about music, and as a member of Tino and the Hard Core Band, Tino is always busy working to improve his craft or out with his band members playing at various venues, home and abroad.

Mr Mark currently owns a recording studio located in Virgin Gorda and has worked with 'Roots with Quality' studio in Antigua. He is also writing music for himself and other artistes.

“In the very near future, I am trying to work with other artistes in the United Kingdom,” Tino commented.

When asked what his fans can expect from him for this year’s festival, he expressed that they can expect more music to be released and a number of performances from him and his band.

After winning the first ever Groovy Soca Monarch in 2013, Martino 'Tino' Mark lost the crown in 2014 although winning the Power Monarch that same year. He returned in 2015 to reclaim his title with the song “Ah Begging”, which was written by him.

“My fans will be asking me to compete in Soca Monarch this year, but I have not made up my mind regarding that as yet,” remarked Tino.

Advice for old and upcoming artiste

Mr Martino Mark is an inspiration to young musicians as he is more of a trail blazer rather than a follower and is always seeking originality in his music; something that makes him stand out from the crowd.

The musician encourages young musicians to be fully committed to their music because it takes a lot of time. “Try to be true to yourself instead of trying to be someone else. Try to be who you are as an artiste and do not be a follower. Be a leader.”

Click on link to listen to Martino 'Tino' Mark's latest release, Junkie:

https://soundcloud.com/tinovi/junkie