I'm a King Bee (Live 1977)

Hey there, Zoo Freaks! Your hippie DJs at THE ZOO are buzzing with excitement as we spin "I'm a King Bee (Live 1977)" by Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush from their electrifying Live album. This track, recorded in the Southern United States, captures the raw energy of their 1977 tour, with Marino’s searing guitar riffs channeling the spirit of the blues classic written by Slim Harpo in 1957. Fun fact: this song was a staple in their live sets, often stretched out with blistering solos that left audiences in awe. In a 2015 Guitar World interview, Marino shared that he loved playing blues like "I'm a King Bee" because it allowed him to blend raw emotion with technical fire, saying, “It’s like a Formula One race car of the blues.” The live version we’re playing tonight includes a medley with “Back Door Man” and “Who Do Ya Love,” showcasing Marino’s knack for weaving covers into a psychedelic blues-rock tapestry.

Another cool tidbit comes from the fan community on the Frank Marino Fan Club on Facebook, where fans recount stories of Marino’s legendary performances. One fan posted about seeing the band in ’79 in Montreal, describing how "I'm a King Bee" turned into a 10-minute jam with Marino trading licks with his brother Vincent on rhythm guitar. The song’s gritty vibe and Marino’s Hendrix-inspired flair made it a crowd favorite, especially at venues like California Jam II, where they shared the stage with giants like Aerosmith. Fans on ReverbNation also praise the track for its raw, unpolished sound, noting that the Live album was recorded without studio overdubs, giving it an authentic, in-the-moment feel that’s pure Mahogany Rush magic.

Let’s dive into how Frank Marino got his start. Born Francesco Antonio Marino on November 20, 1954, in Montreal, Canada, he was a musical prodigy who began playing drums at age five. By his early teens, he’d switched to guitar, teaching himself by ear and drawing heavy inspiration from Jimi Hendrix, though he’s always debunked myths about a Hendrix apparition guiding him after an LSD trip. Marino formed Mahogany Rush in the early 1970s, blending hard rock, blues, and psychedelia into a sound that earned him the nickname “Canadian Jimi Hendrix.” Their debut album, Maxoom, dropped in 1972, and by the mid-’70s, the band was touring extensively, building a cult following with albums like Mahogany Rush IV and World Anthem. Marino’s virtuosic playing and soulful vocals made Mahogany Rush a standout act, though he remained humble, once saying on his official website, “I just play what I feel.”

Despite retiring from music in 2021 due to health issues, Marino’s legacy lives on through his devoted fans. You can keep up with updates and dive deeper into his world at his official website, where he shares tour memories and studio insights. Connect with the community on Facebook, check out vintage photos on Instagram, and join discussions on X. For fan-driven content, the Frank Marino Fan Club on Facebook is a treasure trove of stories and rare clips. Another great spot is For Guitarists Only, a fan site celebrating Marino’s guitar mastery. So, Zoo Freaks, keep buzzing to this killer track and let’s keep the Mahogany Rush spirit alive!