Vocals, Guitar, Accordion
Probably one of Grand Rapids first pop/rock entertainers, around the same time frame as Bob and the Bandits, c. 1957-1958.
Mario was born in 1942 and attended Ottawa Hills High School. Mario was from Texas and from a family of 10. When he was 14 he traveled to NYC and recorded a single called “Ooh-Woo-Wee” and “When We’re Together.” (Wig Wag 101). This recording company saw him performing on Bop Hop on WOOD-TV. He went on a 9-month tour of Pennsylvania to promote this recording.
He was in a band with his father Tony and his siblings called Tony and the Rock Cats, playing at VFW’s. Mario played accordion and guitar.
This information is based on an interview with Mario conducted by Tom Shannon. Thanks to Tom Shannon for sharing!
Left to Right: Mark Wygmans, Al Bishoff, in the rear is Joe Thompson and Mario Duran on the far right