Bio

Mike’s musical journey began in an unconventional yet heartwarming manner. Adopted at just three months old, he was welcomed into the embrace of a young couple who longed for children. Growing up on the southside of Chicago, Mike’s upbringing, though not without its challenges, was rooted in love and care. His adoptive parents, a paramedic and a secretary, instilled in him a sense of determination and a deep appreciation for music.

From an early age, Mike developed a profound affection for the piano, spurred on by his mother’s encouragement to take formal lessons. As the keys danced beneath his fingers, he ventured into the world of Jazz improvisation, even before he completed high school, attending classes at St. Xavier College.

Immersed in the rich tapestry of Rock and Blues that permeated south Chicago, Mike found himself captivated by bands like Styx and REO Speedwagon, drawn to the fact that these musical luminaries hailed from the same neighborhood.

In his teenage years, Mike expanded his musical repertoire, adding bass and guitar to his arsenal. It wasn’t long before he began composing his own songs, recording his earliest demos at Hair Bear Studios in Evergreen Park, IL.

Over the course of a decade, Mike delved deeper into songwriting, penning hundreds of compositions. In 2002, he proudly unveiled his inaugural album, “It’s About Time,” a project that coincided with the arrival of his third child. Mike took on the roles of instrumentalist and producer, crafting the album entirely within the walls of his newly established home studio.

Subsequently, the release of his second studio album, “The Way Home,” in 2008 showcased Mike’s musical evolution. Collaborating with the likes of Eric Swanson on drums and Amery Schmeisser as mixing engineer, Mike once again demonstrated his multifaceted talent, personally handling all aspects of instrumentation and arrangement.

Throughout his career, Mike has collaborated with a diverse array of bands and artists, including dada, The Damnwells, Devin Dawson, Kevin Presbrey, and The Cerny Brothers. His versatility and musical prowess have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Today, Mike’s creative journey continues to flourish. He channels his talents into writing and producing music for synchronization, with placements that resonate with audiences far and wide, including esteemed institutions like Sesame Street Workshop, Houghton Mifflin, and Xata Turnpike, among others. With each note and lyric, Mike weaves a musical tapestry that transcends boundaries and leaves an enduring imprint on the world of music.