That's What I'm talkin 'bout!

Mike, what’s your story on learning to play piano?

Answer: Coming from a divorced family, I use to go out to my father's house every other weekend. He had a small spinet piano and I use to pick out some one note church songs by ear while out there. At about age 17, my mother asked me if she bought a piano, would I take lessons and learn to play ? I said yes! It was a rainy Sunday afternoon and we went and bought a $1000 Aeolian spinet piano. As soon as I graduated high school, I opted not to play summer baseball anymore and started lessons with a teacher who lived underneath my grandmother's apartment. Most people are surprised I started as late in life as I did. My teacher recognized I had a good ear for the piano and I accelerated really fast. And now today, I am having a great time playing and singing as often as I can.

Question: Why do you do this?

Answer:  I LOVE  music and love people. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing people enjoy your music and have a good time. Life is too short not to enjoy  yourself and those around you. Music is something that seems to help me thru the day!

Question:  Mike, if I want to book you for a party, can you give me more music than just piano?

Answer: YES. I can work with backing tracks (drums, bass, guitar-minus keyboard) or I also work with several great guitarist that can sit in with me as well. A duet is a lot of fun to have. Also, I  am a member of the Gecko Brothers Band, the hottest entertainment band in the Mid-South!

Question: How far in advance do I need to book you?

Answer:  6-8 weeks is preferred, especially if I am booked regular somewhere playing, but, you can always give me a buzz or an email and try if you have a spur of the moment occasion. If you are looking for a whole band, I may need 8 weeks.

Question: Will you play for my pool party outside?

Answer: YES, unless it is like 115 degrees or freezing outside!

Question: Mike, are you expensive?

Answer: I don’t think so! I will try and work with your budget for your event/party. The more difficult the set-up and the more players involved naturally will be more money. I really enjoy working with at least a duet but am not afraid by any means to go solo. In other words, I think you will be pleased with the value you receive.. Keep in mind, if I bring my entire setup of gear, I have in excess of  $10K worth of gear. Also, I do not fudge on my clothing. I will dress the occasion for your venue. If you are formal and need me in a coat/tie/suit, I can do it. doing a poolside/patio event- I've got the khaki shorts and beach shirt along with the coolest hat you have laid your eyes on!

Question: Mike, who do you sound like when you sing?

Answer: ME…LOL. Someone once referred to me as a “white” Ray Charles. I do have a demo available if you need one. Many have said I have a very passionate style of singing and playing, especially when it comes to party music. Others have told me how "smooth" I sound when playing for a quiet restaurant. so, vocally, i think you will enjoy me as well. I can even pull off a good ole Mickey Gilley bar room cheatin' song!

Question: Can you provide me with a couple of references?

Answer: YES

Question: What type music is your style?

Answer:  Check the SONG LIST for partial listing of songs.

Question:  Mike, I am having a cocktail hour and a dinner for my company party and we really just need some laid back background music on the piano, and not really any vocals. Can you do this?

Answer: Yes. For your event, I am there to help as much as possible and help set the mood as best I can. Trust me, I have no ego and feel no need to "show out" and grab the attention. It is almost like you want to hear the piano in the background, but "not really" hear it... does that make sense?