Alex Marrero is an Austin, TX. based musician, songwriter, producer, teacher and bilingual voice over talent. Born in Mexico City to Cuban parents. Alex got his professional start playing clubs in Mexico at the age of 15 and has continued his musical evolution since moving to Austin in 1994.
Alex is a respected vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and sought after sideman in various genres. Alex is known for comfortably inhabiting the role of drummer, percussionist, guitar player, background singer, writer or producer. As a lead singer he possesses a unique bravado which has garnered him a reputation as an engaging and charismatic front man. His voice and showmanship present in “Brownout Presents: Brown Sabbath” earned him critical & public acclaim as well as high praise from Ozzy Osbourne himself.
As a music educator, Alex taught at The Austin School of Music for over 15 years. He currently has a private teaching studio in South Austin where he takes on select students and teaches: drums, percussion, guitar, vocals and does live performance coaching.
Alex is also the bilingual voice of CapMetro Buses & Trains in the City of Austin, Texas.
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5 Questions with Alex Marrero
What musical experience most set you on the path to a career in radio?
I would say it’s a career in music and performance. Radio is a newer avenue for me, technically, but not a foreign one in any way. I’ve been in front of a microphone in one capacity or another my entire life. Everything I do is an extension of my abilities and knowledge as a performer and lover of music.
What’s your favorite Austin music experience so far?
Hmmm… I’ve been in Austin for 30 years. As a whole, Austin has contributed to my development in ways I can’t even describe. It has enhanced, taught and shaped so much of who I am as a person, music lover, musician, teacher and performer. Connecting with Austin audiences is always a magical experience.
I guess there was that one time I sang a few Black Sabbath songs to Ozzy Osbourne in person at The Little Longhorn Saloon with Brownout/Brown Sabbath. After we performed, we all then played chicken shit bingo. A pretty surreal experience!
Why public rather than commercial radio?
Freedom and the wonderful connection to community. Public radio really enhances, enriches and reflects communities. You can see it and experience it. It’s tangible. It’s a beautiful thing.
How do you spend your time when you’re not spinning records on the air?
Well, I’ve been a professional musician and voice talent for over 30 years! My time is mostly spent in my studio as a multi-instrumentalist, singer and producer. I also taught at the Austin School of Music for over 15 years. I now have a private teaching studio. I’ve performed around the world as a drummer, percussionist, guitar player and singer with countless acts.
So, whether I’m teaching music, doing voice work, singing, playing or performing– it’s all an extension of expression that comes from a deep passion and love for music. I didn’t go to music school. So, I’ve learned everything I know about music from being an obsessive listener my whole life. My music school was my albums, cd’s cassettes and obsessively going out to experience live music here in Austin.
Finish the sentence: “Austin Music Is ….”
Beautiful and eclectic