Second Album
Out Now!
“New Perspective”
A journey through mental health, world travels, and positivity.
Bio
Michael Blakey
Michael Blakey is an American rock singer-songwriter. Inspired by the 90s rock and grunge scene, and more recent British folk-punk. With his powerful lyrics, raw energy, and driving guitar playing, His storytelling abilities bleed into his songwriting, taking audiences on evocative journeys, either to distant places in the world or into the depths of the human mind. He carries out explosive live performances as a solo, duo, trio, and full band act.
Music
“ New Perspective”
Video
Featured
Juu Ya Mawingu - Lyric Video
New Perspective Music Video (May 31)
Live
Performance
Full Band Demo
Solo Live Looping Demo
2024 Full Band Highlights
EPK
New Perspective
In 2012, Michael took a leap of faith and left St. Louis, MO behind, setting out on an adventure that would take him to every corner of America and across 13 countries. He embarked on a voyage of self-discovery and artistic evolution. With each new place, he collected stories, savored new dishes, made new friends, and gathered life lessons, all while stepping out of his comfort zone. These experiences have been channeled into his most recent album, 'New Perspective.’
'New Perspective' promises a tour through musical landscapes, blending energetic rock, Jack White inspired riffs, and soul-soothing melodies that nod to the likes of John Moreland. It's an album charged with a zest for life, urging us to stay positive even when times get tough, and serves as a reminder of the shared ride we're on in this whirlwind called life. If this album's essence could be crystallized into a single concept, 'empathy' would be its cornerstone. New Perspective is a testament to how a little understanding and kindness can’t just change a day - but can transform the world.
Michael's musical journey began with a Black Dan electro guitar, a gift from his dad when he was 14, and a Goldfinger tune, '99 Red Balloons.' Those early days were filled with the excitement of creating music with all his friends around bonfires. His early influences were as varied as they were vibrant, ranging from the alternative sounds of O.A.R and Incubus to the punk energy of Sum 41 and the introspective melodies of John Mayer, not to mention the bedrock of classic rock and blues instilled in him by his father, John Blakey.
College brought a whirlwind of concerts, late night jam sessions, and road trips all resonating with the sounds of Phish, Moe, Yonder Mountain String Band, and many more. Amid this musical backdrop, Michael played with several bands and kindled a deep fascination with the art of songwriting and musical storytelling. Michael's hunger for adventure swept him away to Bucharest, Romania, where the energy and spirit of living abroad with so much to discover infused the creation of his debut album, "Prisoner of Freedom." As he journeyed around the world, his voice found its true calling, echoing his message of positivity to the world. His work resonated back home too, catching the airwaves on The Hudson Valley's Alternative WRRV and spinning across various Spotify playlists.
It was love that ultimately called Michael back to the U.S., where he and his wife spent a few years in Nyack, NY, absorbing the Northeast's beauty and calm. That period was a reflective one, allowing Michael to look back on his travels and recognize his personal and artistic growth. With this renewed insight, he began crafting songs for his second full length album “New Perspective.”
Now, Michael's back in St. Louis, MO, where he’s preparing for a future filled with music, from full band shows to regional tours. He is ready to share his journey, one song at a time, with his roots firmly planted in his hometown soil. For a chat with Michael or to learn more about the stories behind 'New Perspective,' you're welcome to reach out him at Michael@Michael-Blakey.com
SXSW - Austin, TX (2014)
Jazz In The Street - Cluj, RO (2017)
Weight of the world from his Debut Album was featured on the NY radio station WRRV The Hudson Valley Alternative. (2021)
Recorded his second studio album, “New Perspective” (2023)
Opened for Steve Ewing Of The Urge (2023)
Notable Stages / Accomplishments
What Lies Ahead
Michael is currently living in St. Louis, MO. He is performing both as a solo act and full band with shows locally and regionally around the midwest.
Interviews | Quotes
Press
Interview w/ Bands Around Town at Park Hills Underground - May 2023
“The Heaviest Acoustic Player Around”
- Allen Smith - Park Hills Underground Booking.
“It's excellent to hear a song with such a positive and real message behind it as well as you don't get to hear that too often anymore. “ Olivia Dolphin