Dustin Simpson started off writing short stories in public school, his grandfather taught him the basics of playing the acoustic guitar and from then on he was hooked. He started writing poetry in early high school years and this progressed to writing music. He started playing guitar with a high school friend in grade 9. Many years later he reunited with the same friend and along with some very close friends Including the late Mike Palmer on lead guitar, he formed a band that was called The Survivorz. He wrote the songs but it was the talent of the band that carried it forward and they were able to record some great music that can be found online to this very day ! Later he teamed up with another friend from public school and formed a new band called Decay and the Retribution. The band remained together and performed some shows in South Western Ontario. They remained together for about 10 years with Dustin playing the folk section of the show followed by a blues section. He was joined in the band by his son Josh who played keyboards. Following the disbanding of Decay and the Retribution he went on to using the stage name DustyMarcus. He is once again joined by his son on keyboards. We hope to hear a lot more from DustyMarcus in the future !!
Growing up the oldest of 5 I remember trying to start a band with my brothers and sisters as a kid. Didn't work very well but it set my brother on the musical path and he is a well known musician and drummer. Later I would try to start a band with friends of mine, we were still in grade school but I knew what I wanted to do. I eventually was successful in putting a group together and here we are today, still going.
Have played live many times and it always seems to be the weather that causes issues. Playing in the wind with set lists and music blowing everywhere makes for some fun times !!
The Beatles and also the solo careers of John, Paul, George and Ringo. Alan Frew of Glass Tiger for his super upbeat positive attitude. Ric Ocasec of The Cars for his unique writing style, he is probably one of my biggest influences.
Marshall amps all the way. Focusrite in my small home studio. Berringer sound board for live play.
We have been through many adaptations of ourselves but DustyMarcus feels right. We are doing what we were meant to do !!