Douglas Vincent “S.A.” Martinez: Omaha’s Voice in 311 and Beyond
Douglas Vincent “S.A.” Martinez, born October 29, 1969, in Omaha, Neb., has carved out an extraordinary career as the DJ and co-vocalist of 311, a band that has become one of the most successful alternative rock acts of the last three decades. His journey from South Omaha to international stages speaks to both his talent and his relentless commitment to innovation.
Martinez grew up in a musically rich household. His father, Ernie, was a jazz guitarist, and his grandfather, José Bonificia, was a multi-instrumentalist who emigrated from Mexico and brought music to Midwest gatherings. That family legacy gave Martinez an early appreciation for rhythm and improvisation, which he carried into his own artistry. A graduate of Bryan High School, he connected with Aaron “P-Nut” Wills, sharing neighborhood roots that would one day fuel Omaha’s most famous band.
Initially invited as a guest vocalist, Martinez officially joined 311 in 1992, adding turntables, scratches, and rap-inflected vocals to the group’s sound. His presence transformed the band’s musical identity, helping 311 pioneer a genre-blending style of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop that set them apart in the 1990s alternative scene. His signature verses on tracks like “Down,” “All Mixed Up,” and “Beautiful Disaster” became iconic, while his DJ work gave the band a sonic edge that few rock groups of the era could match.
With Martinez, 311 achieved 12 studio albums, over 9 million records sold in the U.S., and chart-topping hits that defined a generation. Beyond commercial success, he has been central to maintaining the band’s energy on stage, contributing to their reputation as one of the most dynamic live acts in rock.
For Omaha’s Latino community, Martinez stands as proof that local roots can grow into global influence. His artistry, longevity, and innovation make him not only a deserving honoree, but also a cultural ambassador whose music continues to carry Omaha to the world.
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