Mark Mendoza, born as Mark Glickman on July 13, 1955, in West Hempstead, New York, was drawn to music from a young age. He attended West Hempstead High School, where he graduated in 1974. It was during his high school years that Mendoza began honing his skills as a bassist and playing with various local bands.
After graduating, Mendoza found himself playing with a band called The Dictators. This experience helped him further develop his musical style and prepared him for the next phase of his career.
In 1978, Mendoza's life changed when he joined the iconic heavy metal band Twisted Sister. Known for their wild stage presence and anthemic songs, Twisted Sister quickly rose to fame with Mendoza holding down the low end on bass.
Mendoza's playing style, characterized by his powerful riffs and energetic stage presence, helped define the sound of Twisted Sister. His nickname, "The Animal," perfectly encapsulated his wild and untamed energy on stage.
Throughout the 1980s, Twisted Sister enjoyed massive success, releasing hit albums and playing sold-out shows around the world. Mendoza's bass lines became an integral part of the band's signature sound, solidifying his place in heavy metal history.
In the 1990s, during Twisted Sister's extended hiatus, Mendoza collaborated with other musicians and played with the band Blackfoot. This experience allowed him to explore different musical styles and showcase his versatility as a bassist.
Mark Mendoza's journey from a young bassist in New York to a rock icon with Twisted Sister is a testament to his talent, determination, and love for music. His influence continues to be felt in the world of heavy metal, inspiring new generations of musicians to pick up the bass and rock out with passion and energy.
As he continues to make music and thrill audiences with his powerful bass lines, Mark Mendoza remains a true legend of heavy metal and a beloved figure in the music industry.