Mark St. John, American guitarist (d. 2007)

Mark Leslie Norton (February 7, 1956 – April 5, 2007), professionally known as Mark St. John, was an accomplished American guitarist whose notable, albeit brief, tenure with the iconic rock band Kiss remains a significant point in his career. His distinctive guitar work can be prominently heard on the band's platinum-selling 1984 album, Animalize.

St. John joined Kiss in April 1984, stepping in for lead guitarist Vinnie Vincent during a pivotal era for the band. This period saw Kiss embracing a more hard rock and glam metal sound, particularly evident on Animalize, which achieved considerable commercial success, selling over two million copies in the United States. Despite his impactful contributions to the album, St. John's time with Kiss was remarkably short-lived, concluding by November 1984. His departure was due to a severe and debilitating condition known as reactive arthritis, which made it increasingly difficult for him to perform. Following his exit, Bruce Kulick, another highly regarded guitarist, took over the lead guitar duties for Kiss, embarking on a long and successful tenure with the band.

Beyond his brief stint with Kiss, Mark St. John continued to pursue his musical passion. In 1985, he co-founded the band White Tiger with his brother Michael Norton on bass, David Donato on vocals, and former Kiss drummer Peter Criss. White Tiger released a self-titled album in 1986, showcasing St. John's virtuosity beyond the Kiss sound. He also had a brief association with the band Burning Rain in the late 1990s and contributed to various other projects and session work throughout his career, demonstrating his enduring dedication to music.

Tragically, Mark St. John's life was cut short on April 5, 2007, at the age of 51. His sudden passing occurred under circumstances that have been described as murky and complex. Several months prior to his death, in late 2006, he was reportedly badly beaten during a brief incarceration in an Orange County jail. The official cause of death was later determined to be a cerebral hemorrhage, which, while not directly linked as an immediate result of the prior assault, certainly added to the tragic narrative surrounding his final months.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mark St. John

Who was Mark St. John?

Mark St. John, born Mark Leslie Norton, was an American rock guitarist best known for his brief but impactful tenure as the lead guitarist for the legendary rock band Kiss in 1984.

When was Mark St. John a member of Kiss?

He was the lead guitarist for Kiss from April to November 1984.

Which Kiss album features Mark St. John's guitar work?

Mark St. John's distinctive guitar playing can be heard on Kiss's 1984 studio album, Animalize, which became a commercial success for the band.

Why did Mark St. John leave Kiss after a short period?

His departure from Kiss was necessitated by a severe case of reactive arthritis, a debilitating condition that significantly impaired his ability to perform at the required level.

What other bands or musical projects was Mark St. John involved in?

After Kiss, Mark St. John co-founded the band White Tiger with former Kiss drummer Peter Criss and his brother Michael Norton. He also had a brief stint with Burning Rain and contributed to various other musical projects and session work.

What were the circumstances surrounding Mark St. John's death?

Mark St. John passed away on April 5, 2007, from a cerebral hemorrhage. His death followed several months after he had sustained a severe beating during a brief stay in an Orange County jail, adding a tragic and complex dimension to the circumstances of his passing.