You may have heard us playing Welcome to Halloween by Mike Headtrip on our Rising Stars show – but who is Mike? We caught up with him to find out more …

Tell us a little bit about your yourself?

Just a regular guy. I traveled a bit as and Air Force brat when I was a kid. I live in Arkansas. The tornado of 3-31-23 took my house and my music studio. Somehow though, all of my instruments survived! My greatest accomplishment was getting off of opiates. It was a hell I survived. I really believed in myself after I made it through that. It was a present for myself on my birthday.

When did you first start to develop a passion for music?

I’ve always been fascinated by music and sound. My mom said that I was constantly making noise as a little kid. Pot and pan drums and such. I started playing guitar at 14.

Which artists did you listen to while growing up?

My first favourite song ever was “Uptown Girl” by Billy Joel. I was really poppy as a kid. Then and older friend turned me on to Judas Priest, Bang Tango and Guns ‘n’ Roses. I was a teenager in the 90’s and I spent all my money on Nirvana stuff. Lol.

What music have you recorded and released to date?

You can probably find something you like. I have so many different moods. Music is a release so whatever I need to get out is what the song is. Good, bad or beautiful, ugly.

Which artists do you enjoy listening to at the moment – and do they influence your work?

I’m a big Tool fan. A Perfect Circle. The Doors. Hendrix. Nirvana. AIC. Most of the time these days, like in the car, I’m listening to classical. Beethoven is my favourite of the well knowns. I’m sure it influences me. Nirvana is in my blood.

Who would your dream collaboration be with?

Tori Amos, Billy Howerdale, Sean Kinney and if Trent Reznor was to show up that would be ok too.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m just living. I have no aspirations in music. I play and record because I will hurt myself if I don’t. Also, I am in love right now. The first time I’ve let someone in a long long time. I am happy. I trust the universe. Try to be a good person, Follow the Golden Rule. As long as I can sleep at night and wake up in the morning things are ok.

Where can we find out more about you?

The best place to start is my official website which is at www.mikeheadtrip.com.