Artists Name/Band: Rocky Michaels Music
Music Genre: Country
Others: Singer-Songwriter
Websites or Social Media Pages
WEBSITE: https://rockymichaelsmusic.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MusicbyRockyMichaels
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rockymichaelsmusic/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTUb-waVxdD1Pjh1qXnMwdw
Bio
Award-winning California singer-songwriter Rocky Michaels has just released his most wide-ranging project yet, an EP called Music for my Soul. The album combines anthemic Americana rock and acoustic guitar driven folk songs. Through his well crafted lyrics and with support from some of Nashville’s best session musicians, Michaels shares his imagery and storytelling through songs about belonging, perspective and nostalgia in this latest release.
The first single off Music for my Soul is the energetic piano-driven “Glory Days”. In it, Michaels offers a retrospective look at his younger days with his former band, sharing the magical draw of the stage and unadulterated lure of stardom. This reminiscence reveals a longing for the past, yet with an upbeat sing-a-long vibe that has a way of tempering any hint of sadness.
“Stepping Stone” is the second single, a sentimental and beautiful acoustic guitar melody about life lessons spoken from a parent to a child. With the son confronted with challenges, the Dad shares “What might seem like a stumbling block all depends where on that rock you stand and what you choose to see.” Here, Michaels delivers a heartfelt and relatable message for the listening audience to easily warm up to.
Rounding out the EP are “Stars”, a metaphoric and poignant commentary about societal status and the desire for equality, “Stronger” an uplifting anthem greatly welcomed in today’s challenging times, and finally “The 5 W’s” – a simple, mandolin-infused, folk ditty addressing the who, what, where, when and why of humanity.
Music for my Soul was produced by Dr. Ford of Ford Media and recorded in both Nashville, Tennessee and Danville, California. The first single is available everywhere October 8, 2021.
Rocky Michaels,
What Musical Genre Do You Feel Best Describes Your Music And How Would You Describe Your Sound?
Indie/Folk/Singer-Songwriter with a touch of Country Rock! (OK, I know that’s like 5 genres rolled into one!)
How Did You Get Your Name? Is There A Story?
Michael is my middle name. Rocky was my favorite movie growing up.
What Are or Have Been Your Musical Influences?
Wide spectrum. Early influences – The Eagles, Rolling Stones, John Mellencamp. Over the years, John Mayer, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney.
What Are You Working On Now? Any Future Collaborations We Can Look Forward To?
I’m on the verge of rolling out 5 new singles, starting with my next one on October 8th and then a new one every four weeks after that. I’ll also have music videos released a week after each new song comes out.
What Is Your Ultimate Goal In The Music Industry? What Is Your Plan Of Action?
World peace! OK, maybe that’s a bit ambitious. I’d love the messages in my songs to reach a wider audience. I write & sing about topics such as social justice, inclusion, the environment and parenting, among others. I’d like to think these topics can have broad appeal. Regardless of their ultimate reach, I’m passionate about songwriting and performing and will continue on for as long as I’m able.
What Is Your Favorite Track To Perform Live and Why?
‘Eagle’ – it’s a piano rock ballad and has become my biggest streamed song as well as most viewed video.
What Has Been The Biggest Challenge In Your Career Thus Far?
Expanding my audience base during COVID. I’ve been performing weekly livestreams from home, which has been a lot of fun. However, the challenge of reaching new fans continues.
What’s Your Typical Songwriting Process?
I’m not really sure what ‘typical’ is as it could mean different things to different musicians. For me, sometimes I get a theme in my head to start. Other times, I stumble upon a riff on the guitar or piano. Ideas can strike me at anytime, so when they do, I just roll with it.
How Has Social Media Influenced Your Career As An Artist?
I’m learning a lot about how to market myself in this current social media environment, but I still have so much more to learn. Social media puts so much control into the hands of the independent artists.
What Are Some Tracks and Artists Currently On Your Playlist?
100 Years (Five for Fighting), Peace (O.A.R.), Name (Goo Goo Dolls), Wildflowers (Tom Petty)…..and much more.
Any Advice For Young People (Men or Women) That Want To Succeed In The Music World?
Do it for the love of what you do, not for the prospects of fame & fortune. You’ll enjoy the journey so much more.