We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michael Bland. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michael below.

Alright, Michael thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

I feel like most people think being a successful musician is all sex drugs and rock n roll. While it’s true that people get into this business for different reasons, i was just imbued naturally with the gifts it takes to become sought after. I’m a drummer who has perfect pitch. Music is what i understand, live on and live by. Not just a great way to meet chicks. lol..

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m the youngest of four. We had a piano in our house, growing up. My father taught us how to play. That’s where my interest in music started. After a brief bout with baritone horn, i started drumming. Early on, i accompanied my father at church. I got into school band in high school. Shortly after, i started gigging around the city. At 18, i met Prince at a downtown nightclub. He courted me for awhile and eventually offered me a job. At 19, i was recording and touring with him. He really helped me refine my craft. He also pushed me to be confident and unafraid of musical experimentation. From there, i got to perform or record with artists such as Chaka Khan, Maxwell and The Chicks, as well as significant overseas activity. In 2005, i joined Soul Asylum. I am still a member.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Working for Prince, i saw a lot of people come and go. He was well known in the industry for firing people. On my first tour, i made my share of mistakes. And, that was unacceptable. Prince kept a very high standard, and was easily upset by inconsistencies. With the knowledge that i was on my way to being let go, i had to really dig deeper within myself and rise to the occasion. It worked. I stayed with Prince another 5 years.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

If i had known that all the real money in the music business is in songwriting, i definitely would have changed lanes.

Image Credits

Images by Christopher Maharry, Jesse Hayes, Sara Miscavage, Dan Michener, Peter Suttman and Neil Schloner.