Hello

My Story

Mark Holzinger is a San Francisco–based guitarist whose career spans jazz, blues, rockabilly, and Western Swing. Known for his expressive tone, fluid improvisation, and deep understanding of American roots music, Holzinger has built a reputation as a versatile and respected guitarist with decades of professional experience on stage and in the studio.

​

On October 2, 2016, Mark Holzinger was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in Sacramento, California. The recognition reflects more than thirty years of dedication to preserving and performing Western Swing and traditional American music. His playing blends technical mastery with a natural feel for the swinging guitar traditions that grew out of the music of Bob Wills and other pioneers of the genre.

​

A defining chapter of Holzinger’s career was his long association with Don Burnham and the country swing band Lost Weekend. Mark served as the band’s lead guitarist for more than two decades, helping shape the group’s signature sound and recording four albums during that time. His work with Don Burnham and Lost Weekend placed him firmly within the lineage of modern Western Swing performers and contributed to the recognition that later led to his Hall of Fame induction.

​

Holzinger has also been a sought-after guitarist for a wide range of artists and musical projects. His professional credits include performing with Grammy-winning singer Rickie Lee Jones during his time in Nashville and Los Angeles, as well as collaborating with respected bebop saxophonist Bishop Norman Williams. Earlier in his career he was the driving guitar force behind the rockabilly band The Mud Dogs, performing on stages that also hosted legendary acts such as The Stray Cats, Chris Isaak, Asleep at the Wheel, and The Neville Brothers.

​

Today Mark Holzinger remains active in the Western Swing and roots music community. He currently performs with Mae McCoy and Her Neon Stars and continues to record and collaborate with musicians who share a passion for traditional American music.

​

His recordings highlight his guitar work within the Western Swing tradition. His first Western Swing album, Takeoff Guitar, introduced listeners to his lively instrumentals and strong rhythm guitar approach. His newest release, Juke & Jive, continues that spirit with a collection of Western Swing and rockin’ country tunes featuring a lineup of respected guest musicians, including Laurie Lewis and Mae McCoy.

​

Through his performances and recordings, Mark Holzinger continues to celebrate and preserve the traditions of Western Swing, jazz, and American roots music while bringing the sound to new audiences.