Marlene was born in the southwest town of Cunnamulla in Queensland on the 23rd of January 1954. Her family lived on the Aboriginal fringe camp as Aboriginal people were not treated as citizens until 1968. Marlene says her traditional homelands are Laura up Cape York way on her Fathers (Guguyelandji) side , and Keppel Island (Woppaburra) on her Mothers side. Marlene was raised with a very political 'grassroots' upbringing as her Father Darcy Cummins (see pic of Darcy )was a pioneer in fighting racial injustice and just like her Father she likes to use music as a medium to make the world a better place to live in.
Marlene knows the Blues from an Aboriginal perspective in this country as a child and later in life became a member of the first and only Australian Black Panther Party. She's had many dealings with authorities due to an outspoken stance on political issues committed against Aboriginal people.
Marlene is a recovered alcoholic & drug addict and admits this unashamedly. She insists on being a role model for anyone who may come against this problem and feel they cant get past it.
She raised her son with the help of her father who also taught her son Leroy Cummins (see pic of Leroy & Marlene ) Leroy has a very impressive music career which includes guitarist for Christine Anu, Mixed Relations and sessions with many bands nationally & internationally. He has also played a major part in backing his mother Marlene in her music career performing at major festivals e.g., 'Survival Day Concert' 26th Jan every year also East Coast Blues & Roots Festival 2000 at Byron Bay.