Marc Douglas Berardo

Marc Douglas Berardo started his journey as an artist in the late 1980s, in a biker bar in Butler Beach, which fueled his passion for performing.

He speaks of a pivotal moment in his early musical years in St. Augustine, “The first day I showed up in town, some local crazies took me to the world-famous Trade Winds Lounge to see the most famous local crazy; the southern folk poet, Gamble Rogers. After a few drinks, the crowd I was with wanted to leave, but I stayed. Good move, too. I learned more that afternoon than I deserved." 

St. Augustine became his canvas, where every corner held an opportunity for inspiration. He honed his craft in venues echoing with nautical charm and warm neon lights. "I was playing great rooms like The Sandpiper and The Foghorn; I wasn’t necessarily trying, but I guess I was becoming a singer/songwriter kind of guy. Whenever I got to play and sing, especially a song I made up in my head, it felt good and fine. I always felt a kind of glow that felt right. I was sure that I was holding a winning ticket."

His travels took him to various locales, including Florida, New York, Colorado, Texas, and Maine. He dedicated his days and nights to performing in tourist bars, coffee houses, theaters, and festivals, immersing himself in diverse musical experiences and gradually shaping his identity as a singer/songwriter.

During a visit back home to New York, Marc reunited with his brothers, Chris and Scott, and together they formed the DesBerardo Band. The group, infused with country-rock vibes, gained popularity, sharing the stage with iconic acts such as Little Feat, Molly Hatchet, and The Marshall Tucker Band. Their music culminated in the release of the album, American Dust, marking their footprint on the regional music scene.

Relocating to Westerly, Rhode Island, Berardo continued to forge his identity as a performer. He toured extensively, captivating audiences across New England and beyond. He shared stages with talented artists including Peter Rowan, Guy Clark, and folk legends like Ralph Stanley and Eric Andersen. Throughout his journey, he also had a notable stint in the roots rock group, Those Guys Band, sharing camaraderie with southern rock veterans.

Marc’s talent did not go unnoticed. He garnered recognition from numerous prestigious song contests and festivals. In January 2005, his song, "The Story (Life After Hemingway)" earned him a nomination at the Just Plain Folks Awards in Los Angeles, competing with more than 140,000 works. His music struck a chord with listeners, resonating with heartfelt storytelling.

April 2006 marked a new chapter for Berardo with the release of HARBOR, his fourth studio album. Produced by Prof. Dick Neal, the collection presented a blend of emotional string arrangements and invigorating melodies that showcased Marc’s artistic growth. It reached #35 on the National Folk DJ Radio Survey, standing alongside legends like Jackson Browne and Pete Seeger.

Marc Douglas Berardo's journey is a testament to the power of music in shaping one's identity. With a “lonesome, clear voice” that echoes through the venues he graces, Berardo continues to touch souls and inspire future generations of songwriters. His journey has been filled with passion, resilience, and an unwavering desire to share his stories through music. His experiences, and rich discography, invite listeners to explore the depths of life as seen through the eyes of a true troubadour.