Starting out in 2003 as a straight-ahead 1950's influenced rockabilly trio, founding and only surviving original member Mark Sprex has pushed on through the
years despite many line-up changes, developing the style and sound which has evolved into a powerful rock 'n' roll combo with many influences ranging from rockabilly to neo-rockabilly to punk
rock. Live shows have become well known for Mark's high energy and often unpredictable performances, resulting in a steady and loyal following .. 17 years on and still going strong! The band
specializes in originals from Mark and some covers that show his influences. So, the final result is a power packed, high energy, wild rock'n'roll trio that should please the ears of everyone
with their diverse and experienced range of rock'n'roll musicianship and showmanship. If you want to give them a 'label' then THE RHUMBA KINGS are simply and proudly a ROCK 'N' ROLL
band!
Since moving to Belgium in 2001, Mark is also often employed as a session player in Europe. Mark is known as the original drummer of The Houserockers and for his work as bassist and drummer
for The Playboys. Over the years he has worked with many other top-rated bands and famous faces such as Toby Tomanov ex-drummer of Primal Scream, Boz Boorer guitarist of Morissey and The
Polecats plus many others. To date Mark has recorded well over 20 albums with various bands and artists, appeared on prime-time television, has credits in several books, appeared in numerous
magazines and publications etc. He has toured and entertained relentlessly and endlessly since 1988.
Since 2011 Mark worked for the organisation of UK's famous 'Hemsby Rock'n'Roll Weekender' festival, as the Hemsby - House Band Leader. This also included working for certain acts at 'The
Rockers Reunion' and 'Americana International Festival' in the UK. Other artists to Mark's working credit as a session artist are: Janis Martin, Dale Hawkins, Rip Masters, Graham Fenton
(Matchbox), Bloodshot Bill, Tommy Bruce, Gene Summers, Robin Luke, Lee Dresser, Al Ferrier, Jimmy Cavallo, Marcel Riesco, Sonny Burgess, Rosie Flores, King Size Taylor, Ray Campi, Willie
Craig, Travis LeDoyt, Al Hendrix, Art Adams, Billy Adams, Jimmy Lee Maslon, Mike Waggoner, James Intveld, John Lewis, Mark Pennington (Caravans), Steve Hooker, Bill Haley Jr .. and many
more!!
The Rhumba KIngs released a limited edition bootleg mini album in September 2004 which has become a collectors item. In July 2005 they were support act for Stray Cats drummer Slim Jim Phantom
and in November 2005 they did a tour with Stray Cats bassist Lee Rocker. In November 2006 they were support act for the legendary Dick Dale. In February 2007 they toured with Lee Rocker
again. Since then, they've supported or toured with many big names including .. The Jets, The Quakes, Crazy Cavan, Volbeat, Restless, The Meteors, The Living End, Status Quo, The Hollies plus
many others.
In 2007 The Rhumba Kings recorded the album 'Bad World Big Shot', which was produced by Mark Pennington (The Caravans). Spring 2018, Mark released his solo album 'Warrior' produced by Paul
Fenech of The Meteors.
In Spring 2019 Mark asked legendary British neo-rockabilly guitarist and front-man of Restless, Mark Harman to do some festival shows with The Rhumba Kings. These shows were a huge success
and much more is planned for now and the future.