Underground Interview With MJM

MJM

 

A magnetic new force in the rich and stirring world of Hard Rock and Metal, MJM are driven to become the genre’s biggest break through. 

 

MJM - representing the initials of the band’s front man and driving creative force, Michael J. Miller - are set to soar, stunning listeners with each new composition. 

 

 

Michael J. Miller, himself a talented musician known to his fans for being a veteran Rock-Metal Artist, began with his band Rapid Tears, releasing the albums “Honestly” & “Cry for Mercy” on Chameleon Records, which are currently distributed by European label (Sonic Age Records) Cult Metal Classics.  However, Rapid Tears came to a halt during production of their third album, and Miller’s musical journey took him towards new routes, forming a new group Adrenalin, releasing an epic album titled “Dedicated” which was released under German record label (Long Island Records).  Being a composer since an early age, Michael is a seasoned guitar maestro, who has successfully crafted a solid, heavy and original musical style, through his sensory compositions.

 

Exploring and evolving his musical tastes, Miller decided it was time to make an act that reflected the authenticity and the true origin of his creative music.  MJM first broke into the musical realm, with their debut album titled “Ascension”, which formed the launch pad for MJM.  Consisting of several classic guitar themed electric instrumental pieces such as “The Chase”, “Mountain Boogie”, and “Ascension”, the album enthralled listeners with unique richness and song writing prowess. MJM’s second album “Valley of The Kings”, featured singles “Dogs of War” and “Black Eyed Susan” mixed with an assortment of fantastic guitar themed instrumentals, underscored in poignant and powerful lyricism. This was followed by a third album, MJM “INSTRUMENTAL”, a dynamic collection of hard-hitting and captivating guitar instrumental songs, compiled from the albums “Dedicated”, “Ascension”, “Valley of the Kings”, and other original compositions.

Having garnered numerous accolades, MJM have been awarded Best Rock Song 12 times and Best Instrumental 5 times at the Akademia Music Awards in Hollywood. In 2019 MJM were honored with the highly acclaimed, Akademia Executive award. This brilliant feat was followed by their winning streak with the 2020 Akademia Artist Vision award, and the 2021 Akademia Rising Star award. In 2022 MJM released MJM IV which won over hearts and souls. MJM were granted the Rock Artist of the Year Award, and MJM were inducted into the Akademia Music Hall of Fame in 2023.  ‘MJM IV’- an outstanding and peerless offering to the Rock world. Produced by Tom Atom, the album features Michael J Miller on guitar, vocals, and song writing, complimented with Zsolt Henczely on Bass, Tom Eakin on drums, and Stephany Dudas on backing vocals.  MJM are recording music for their 5th album.  In October, 2023 MJM released the single “Live It Up”.  In 2024 “Live It Up” was released featuring Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens of Judas Priest and KK’s Priest.  Charged with massive internet radio airplay, the band is ready to tour the world, with the driving goal of becoming a household name.  Expect more great new songs from MJM in the near future.

What Musical Genre Do You Feel Best Describes Your Music And How Would You Describe Your Sound?

MJM is Rock/Melodic Metal. We are heavy, but pleasant to listen to.

 

How Did You Get Your Name? Is There A Story?

MJM - The Michael J Miller Band. I've been through too many name changes with bands. This time I gave it my own name. No one can change that! MJM

 

What Are or Have Been Your Musical  Influences?

Rock & roll from the beginning has influenced me. There's too many artists to mention but, here's a few - The Beatles, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest. I have been my own influence most of my life.

 

What Are You Working On  Now? Any Future Collaborations We Can Look Forward To?

MJM has a new song right now being mixed for release. It's called 'A.I. New World Order'.

 

What Is Your Ultimate Goal In The Music Industry? What Is Your Plan Of Action?

I've been making records for a long time. My goal is to become a Rock household name. MJM wants to tour the world.

 

What Is Your Favorite Track To Perform Live and Why?

We are an original music recording act. The songs we choose to do live are all great. The show starts off great and the excitement just keeps climbing. I can't say I have a favorite.

 

What Has Been The Biggest Challenge In Your Career Thus Far?

The music business itself, is the challenge. Being from Canada has made it more difficult, I'm quite sure!

 

What's Your Typical Songwriting Process?

I come up with songs at any time. The trick is to capture a good idea and then work on it. Fortunately, I have recording studio for pre-production before the song goes into the big studio with our producer. I ususally work out the arragement of the song before anyone gets involved.  All bandmates will have their input, but I like to have a strong song before the group listens to it for their first time.

 

How Has Social Media Influenced Your Career As An Artist?

Social media is a double edged sword. It is very handy to get our music out there, but it is so over saturated that it's hard to get noticed.

 

What Are Some of the Tracks and Artists Currently On Your Playlist?

Each MJM album is a separate spotify playlist. Our 'Live' Playlist on Youtube is a great sample of what people get at our shows.

 

What Did You Do Before You Started Making Music?

I was a paperboy

 

Any Advice For Young People, Men or Women That Want To Succeed In The Music World?

Give it all you got. It's gonna take longer than you think. Don't give up!

 

What Would You Change In The Music Industry If You Were A Top Music Executive?

Record company support is what every great artist needs. Labels seem to make artists prove themselves before they offer to help. Unknown musicians aren't rich, promo is very expensive. How can an artist get ahead without financing? I would offer development deals to artists that look promising.

 

How Do You Feel About Originality?

Originality is everything. Sounding like someone else is not as good as having your own sound. That's why it bugs me if some asks 'who do you sound like'?

 

Is There Anything Else We Should Know About You Or That You Would Like to Add?

I have along history in the rock/metal genre. I'm a world class pro musician/songwriter. People in this world need to know what I do. The world is missing out! Check out MJM's social media sites and my background with 'Rapid Tears' and 'Adrenalin'.