David Marks

David Lee Marks, born on August 22, 1948, is a notable American guitarist recognized for his role as one of the early members of the Beach Boys. Growing up in Hawthorne, California, he became acquainted with the original band members and often joined their family gatherings. After leaving the Beach Boys, Marks led a group called the Marksmen and also worked extensively as a session musician.

He became part of the Beach Boys in February 1962, stepping in for Al Jardine on rhythm guitar. Marks contributed to the band’s first four albums, including Surfin' Safari (1962), Surfin' U.S.A. (1963), Surfer Girl (1963), and Little Deuce Coupe (1963). However, because he wasn't involved in the band's initial single "Surfin'" released in 1961, many historians do not consider him a founding member. Marks departed from the band in August 1963 due to conflicts with manager Murry Wilson. Following his exit, he collaborated with various artists such as Casey Kasem's Band Without a Name, Delaney & Bonnie, and Warren Zevon while also studying jazz and classical guitar at the Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory.

Marks rejoined the Beach Boys for live performances from 1997 to 1999 and later participated in their fiftieth-anniversary tour and the 2012 album That's Why God Made the Radio. He published his autobiography, The Lost Beach Boy, in 2007. Marks has fond memories of his childhood, noting that he often performed alongside the Wilson family during informal Sunday night singalongs. His passion for music was sparked by a performance he witnessed in 1958, leading to his parents gifting him a guitar.