Vanilla Fudge’s Mark Stein on his encounters with Tommy Bolin, Jimi Hendrix: ‘It was a magical time’

For Mark Stein, music has kept him hangin’ on, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

The 75-year-old is known as the lead vocalist, keyboardist, composer and arranger of the psychedelic-symphonic rock band Vanilla Fudge, which made its mark in the ‘60s. 

Over the years, Stein has worked extensively with legendary artists such as Alice Cooper, Dave Mason and late Deep Purple guitarist Tommy Bolin. He also made guest appearances with Deep Purple, Carl Palmer and the Steve Miller Band, among others. 

Fast-forward to today, and Stein is hoping to make a difference through song. His new single, “Let’s Pray for Peace,” featured on his first solo album, “There’s a Light,” aims to shine a spotlight on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

THE DOORS’ JIM MORRISON HAD ‘A FASCINATION WITH DEATH’ BEFORE PASSING AWAY AT 27, BANDMATE ROBBY KRIEGER SAYS

Stein spoke to Fox News Digital about what it was like sharing a stage with Jimi Hendrix, how he coped with Bolin’s passing at a young age and more. 

Fox News: What’s the story behind your new track “Let’s Pray for Peace?”
Mark Stein: It was a feeling that I ended up writing about several years ago. It’s been a popular staple at my shows. My record company and I thought it’d be a great idea to put together a video, which is relevant to the war in Ukraine.

It turned out to be a pretty powerful project. All the money is going to UNICEF to support the children and families in Ukraine. Right at the end of the video, there’s a link where we’re hoping people will donate to help those brave people over there that are going through what they’re going through.

Known for such songs as “Season of the Witch,” “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” and “Shotgun,” Vanilla Fudge included Mark Stein on lead…