Can you tell us about your early life, Mike? Where were you born and raised, and how did your childhood influence your musical journey?
I was born in South Jersey. My parents relocated to a Chicago Suburb, where I lived until I was 10. We then moved back to Jersey. While living in Chicago I remember when MTV first aired. As a little kid I was excited to see Michael Jacksons Billy Jean Video. My father was a piano player and a fan of the Big Band era of music. We had a baby grand piano in the house he would sometimes play. I now have that piano in my house. I remember break dancing was popular but I was more interested in melody and the music. Growing up back in Jersey, I fell in love with the guitar. I had lessons for a while with a few different teachers but it was when I hit the later years of high school when my playing and songwriting really began.
How did you discover your passion for music, and what were the significant milestones along the way?
One milestone fresh in my memory is when I was a junior in high school, I played guitar for a friend who sang ” Peaceful Easy Feeling” by the Eagles for his senior year chorus recital. It was in front of 300 people. He was a year ahead of me in school. He asked his choir teacher if I could play the guitar for him while he sang, essentially replacing the teacher. I remember the teacher being surprised I could play as well as I did. I didn’t much care for that teacher. The complements I received after the recital were so fulfilling.
What inspired you to create the single “Kicking Dirt,” and what is the story behind the song?
Kicking Dirt came to me when I was experimenting with open tunings. This is the first song I have written in Open C. I was focused on finding a guitar tone that sounded like the low growl of a motorcycle. When I finally found that sound , the lyrics came quite quickly. I love down on your luck underdog type movies and books, so I put myself in that type of mindset and created a narrative to fit the feel of the guitar tone. I wish I could tell you I was inspired by a true-life event, – (that would be so much cooler) – but the truth is, I locked myself in my home studio for 2 days and didn’t stop until I wrote a song, I was excited for and proud of.
Can you walk us through your creative process when writing and producing music?
For me, when it comes to writing, solitude is key. In the beginning I need to be alone to work out my first initial thoughts. Most everything starts on a guitar. I’ll play a chord progression or a riff that inspires me and then, no matter how silly it is, I’ll write every lyric that comes to mind. I’ll edit myself later. I usually sit with a thesaurus and replace words until I like how they feel coming out of my mouth. Later, I’ll cut a demo and then share it with band members and family for their feedback.
What challenges have you faced in the music industry, and how have they influenced your growth as an artist?
It’s challenging to build an audience. I think that’s my biggest issue right now. Money is another big issue. Also, my last name can be a problem. It’s FREUND, which I was always told is pronounced FRIEND. But try asking Siri or Alexa to play music by Mike FRIEND. If you want to stream my music you have to know the spelling, or pronounce it like the Germans do. FREUND. This makes it difficult for me to build an online audience. And before you ask ” why not change the spelling?”…That’s easier said than done. All in all, this keeps me grounded and true to myself.
What have been the most memorable moments in your music career so far?
I will never forget the recording of my 1st full length album. I had the best time. The producer / engineer and I became great friends. Also, playing at the North Charleston Performing Arts center in 2020 during covid. I was chosen as one of the local artists to do so. The house was empty obliviously because of covid but It was live on Facebook for the word to watch.
As an artist, how do you balance staying true to your unique style while also adapting to the ever-evolving music industry trends?
I can only be me. I can’t pretend to be something not. When that happens, the music suffers. I’m not an actor. I have a hard time faking things.
Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that your fans can look forward to soon?
I’m headed back into the recording studio this April. Until than I have several songs that I will be releasing one at a time as singles. The next in line is a song titled ” Lucky Ones”. It is the 1st song I ever wrote on a baritone guitar. I’m currently discussing schedules to shoot a live performance video to support its release. TBD
Outside of music, what are some of your hobbies and interests that people might not know about?
Well, it may not be a hobby per say, but I work out and lift weights and try to keep myself in shape, at least 3 days a week. I like to cook. I enjoy being in a kitchen. I enjoy American football. I am a Chicago Bears fan. I don’t carry a weapon but I do enjoy going to a shooting rage once in a while. And I like to vacation with my wife at the beach.
Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring musicians who are just starting their journey in the music industry, based on your own experiences and lessons learned?
My advice…… do it for you! because when it comes to success in the music business, the odds are stacked against you. We’re all basically playing the lottery. We’re not all going to be the next Taylor Swift. Most of the music you put out into the world won’t be heard but that’s ok! Celebrate the small victories, keep chipping away at the stone. Do this because it brings you joy. Don’t compare yourself to other musician. It good that we are all different. It’s ok if you need to keep a job to support your music. Make music you like to hear regardless if it sells or not. Money is a tool not a goal. Do it because you don’t want to regret having not done it when you’re 90.
