Multi-instrumentalist Jay Marx began playing guitar at age 7, learning songs off of rock albums from bands such as AC/DC and Iron Maiden.  At age 9 Jay moved to Hawaii with his mother and step-father. While in Hawaii, Jay trained classically on string bass under the tutelage of William Sever (University of Hawaii).  Jay also held a string bass chair in the Hilo youth symphony.  At this same time, Jay was learning both guitar and electric bass from his step-father, Larry Solomon, who was a former Nashville studio musician.  Jay played in country and R&B bands, as well as traditional Hawaiian music with his step-father all around the Big Island of Hawaii.  Upon beginning middle school, Jay began playing Baritone saxophone in the school concert band (Jay had to stand on a crate to play both his string bass and baritone).
Upon starting high school, Jay moved back to California to live with his father and two older brothers.  Jay played guitar in the high school jazz band while his brother Dave played trumpet.  Jay also played alto saxophone and mellophone in the marching band, French horn in the concert band, and played bass and sang baritone in the vocal jazz ensemble.  Both Jay and Dave also played in the high school drum line with Dave playing snare drum and Jay playing pit and mallets (vibes and marimba). In high school, Jay also put together a saxophone quartet which he transcribed and wrote arrangements for.  Although multi-instrumental, jay’s true love was always bass.  While still in high school, Jay worked as a substitute bassist for top 40 and R&B bands around the southern California area.
After high school, Jay continued to work as a substitute bassist and also worked in the studio mostly doing demo work.  Jay also played bass in several original bands such as “Laxia” (progressive rock trio), “Sinister Grin” (metal), and “Reflection” (adult contemporary).  These bands routinely played venues such as the “Roxy” and the “Whiskey” in Hollywood.  Some of these original bands also included jay’s brother, Dave, on drums.
Jay took a break from music to start a career in law enforcement.  In August of 2010, Jay was approached by members of “Radio Active” to fill in on saxophone and a second guitar for a one-time 80’s night review.  Jay took the gig.  The musicians that had come together for this event clicked so well that all of the musicians decided to stay together and play more shows.
Although Jay’s main instrument is bass, he is having a blast playing sax, guitar and keyboards for “Radio Active”.  Jay says that it is completely satisfying being able to play songs that he grew up with, and playing them for other people for whom these songs also bring back memories for.  Jay also enjoys being able to stretch out on some of the other instruments he grew up playing besides bass.