Mark Rivera Biography

Mark Rivera, a versatile American musician, was born on May 24, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York. His multifaceted career spans various roles, including saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, singer, musical director, and corporate entertainment provider. While he is renowned for his collaboration with Billy Joel, Rivera's musical prowess extends across a wide range of instruments, encompassing soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, vocals, guitar, bass, flute, percussion, hammer and chromium steel pipe, and keyboards.

Rivera's journey into the world of music began in Brooklyn, and he later attended the High School of Performing Arts in Manhattan. His cultural background reflects his American and Puerto Rican American heritage, adding a rich dimension to his musical expression.

The first taste of national recognition came for Rivera as a member of the band Tycoon in the mid-1970s. It was during this period that he crossed paths with the legendary producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange. This encounter led Rivera into the realm of rock music's elite, where he engaged in recording and performing alongside prominent artists.

Throughout his career, Rivera's musical contributions extended to collaborations with a diverse array of artists. His portfolio includes work with Hall & Oates, Peter Gabriel (notably on the groundbreaking "So" album), Simon & Garfunkel, John Lennon, Billy Ocean, and Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh.

A significant chapter in Rivera's journey unfolded when he joined Billy Joel and his band in 1982, where he assumed the role of saxophonist, replacing Richie Cannata.

In 1995, Rivera embarked on an exciting musical venture as a member of Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. This collaboration persisted through several tours, adding yet another illustrious chapter to his career.

In 2014, Mark Rivera ventured into solo artistry with the release of his debut album, " Common Bond." The album featured guest appearances by musical luminaries such as Billy Joel, Ringo Starr, Nils Lofgren, and Steve Lukather. Notably, the track "Money Money Money" was a finalist for the title of the "Coolest Song in the World" in 2014, as recognized by Little Steven's Underground Garage.

Beyond his performance prowess, Rivera has excelled in the role of a musical director, earning acclaim for his work with Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band, Billy Joel, and Elton John. His influence extends to the world of corporate entertainment and event production, where his company, The Mark Rivera Entertainment Group, has orchestrated events for prestigious entities like HBO, IBM, Merrill Lynch, AT&T, Coldwell Banker, Northwest Airlines, trade associations, charitable organizations, and educational groups on both national and local scales.

Mark Rivera's professional endorsements underscore his standing in the music industry, with Yamaha Saxophones, Fender, AMT Microphones, Eventide, and Korg USA being among the distinguished brands he represents.

In February 2023, Rivera unveiled his autobiography, "Sideman: In Pursuit of the Next Gig," offering an intimate glimpse into his remarkable career and experiences as a versatile musician and entertainer.