About Mike

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One could say that Mike's career began like most famous drummers...from pots, pans, and tupperware to cymbals, kick pedals, and snares. He unmistakably shares their ultimate love, versatility and passion for music, drums, and life! (However, unlike most drummers, Mike has also enjoyed competing and racing his Legends 1934 Ford Coupe in the Lone Star Legends Series on the race track at Texas Motor Speedway...but that's a story for another time!)

Mike was born in a small Midwestern town in Illinois. He comes from a family with strong backgrounds in music playing every instrument from saxophone and clarinet to banjo and organ. His interest in music and his natural instinct for rhythm had been apparent to his parents very early on so they nurtured that interest by exposing him to many different styles of music from Buddy Rich to Pop Rock.

Mike began studying percussion at age 6. By age 10 he had his first professional TAMA drum set and by age 11, Mike's leadership skills and uncanny ability to motivate his peers was recognized by his mentors. Over the next several years, his skill level earned him many leading positions as drum line captain and lead drummer in Jazz and Honors Band. His enthusiasm was contagious, sharing his belief that what makes a great drummer is being able to make the sound more exciting and visually inviting to the listener,  which lead him to finalist positions in major competitions. In later years, he formed garage bands, performing at school-sponsored events, city-sponsored venues, etc., picking up not only respected recognition but also various prestigious solo awards along the way. A few years later, he met long time friend and mentor Rick Dixon. Rick brought Mike under his wing while performing with CRAZYTOWN and numerous Drummer/DJ shows. During those years they played at the Hardrock in Hollywood, Pinktober Festival, SXSW, and SuperBowl after parties just to name a few. Experience is a fantastic skill in and of itself, but Mike is best known for his sense of humor,  his personality away from and behind the set,  and  interacting with crowds.  Let‘s not  forget  to  mention the  time  he  dedicates  to  non-profit  organizations  as  well  as  family  and friends.