Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Mark Martinez moved to Tucson in 1985 to get away from the cold. His love of music led him to work in record stores—he was a manager at Zia Records and worked at Sam Goody—and in recent years, he's turned his photography hobby into a business specializing in band and live-music photos. He also works part-time at the Rialto Theatre.
What was the first concert you ever saw?
Black Sabbath, in 1975. My first day of work at my first job (I was an usher) was this show. What a great job! I was able to see all the great rock bands of the '70s.
What CDs are in your changer right now?
My current favorites are the new ones from The Decemberists, Grizzly Bear, Dredg and Ben Harper. Other than listening to new releases, I usually have my iPod on shuffle play.
How many total albums do you own (CDs, vinyl, cassettes, 8-tracks)?
Wow, I never really counted, but a good guess would be several thousand CDs and a couple of hundred pieces of vinyl.
Do you download music, and if so, legally or illegally?
Yes, mostly to discover new music. Gotta feed the music addiction. I still buy music, but have to shop more wisely.
What was the first album you owned?
Fleetwood Mac, self-titled, and Aerosmith, Toys in the Attic.
What song would you like to have played at your funeral?
Frank Zappa, "Eat That Question." No need for words—just a great instrumental!
Musically speaking, what do you love that your friends don't know about? What's your favorite guilty pleasure?
I'm addicted to American Idol ... but shhh, don't tell anyone.
What band or artist changed your life, and how?
My second day of work at my first job was Rush and Cheap Trick at the Chicago Auditorium. Cheap Trick was good, but seeing Rush live performing 2112, wow! I was hooked on concerts and live music after this show!
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Frank Zappa, The Grand Wazoo.
