Mike Delp is the guitarist and backup vocalist for the emerging rock, pop/punk band, Power Take Off. With a sound rooted in punk and rock influences, Power Take Off has been making waves in the music industry with chart-topping singles and exciting live performances. As the band prepares for a busy October tour across the United States, including a notable appearance at the Launch Music Conference and Festival in Dallas, it’s a perfect time to dive deeper into the life and musical journey of Mike Delp.

From Humble Beginnings to Rock Stardom

Photo Courtesy: Power Take Off

Mike Delp’s story starts in the small town of Gratiot, Wisconsin, where he grew up surrounded by a tight-knit community. With a population of just 207, it wasn’t easy for Delp to keep his personal life private. A self-proclaimed introvert, Delp always felt a strong desire to break free from his small-town life, dreaming of something bigger. His early ambitions centered around becoming a professional basketball player like his hero, Michael Jordan. However, his passion for the arts gradually overtook his sports aspirations, and he soon began exploring the world of music.

As a child, Delp was drawn to sketching and doodling, a hobby encouraged by his father, James, who had a significant influence on his artistic development. The desire to create through visual art soon transitioned into a love for music. By the age of six, Delp had already started listening to rock bands like Van Halen and Bon Jovi on the radio. This sparked a deep desire to learn to play guitar, a pursuit that would shape his future.

The Journey into Music

Although Delp’s mother, Roberta, a grade school English teacher, initially encouraged him toward piano lessons, it was clear that his true passion lay in the guitar. After six years of piano training, Delp received his first electric guitar—a green Ibanez—for his 15th birthday. This gift marked the beginning of his musical career. Delp quickly formed his first band, Redial, with a couple of school friends. Despite limited performances, the experience was formative, and Delp was hooked on the thrill of live music.

A wide range of genres and artists heavily influenced Delp’s musical journey. His early musical influences included Kenny Rogers, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Van Halen. However, as he grew older, punk rock bands like Green Day, The Offspring, and Blink-182 became his primary focus. Delp developed a particular fondness for the raw energy and DIY spirit of pop-punk and ska bands such as Less Than Jake, Reel Big Fish, and No Doubt.

Finding Mentorship and Bandmates

Throughout his musical career, Delp has consistently been surrounded by mentors who have played pivotal roles in his artistic development. His most excellent mentor has been Scott Theis, a fellow musician he met during high school. The two formed several bands together, including Johnny Rocker and the High Rollers and Pine, which helped solidify their lifelong friendship. In the years that followed, Delp and Theis would reunite, forming Power Take Off.

As a band, Power Take Off has become a close-knit family, and Delp’s connection with his bandmates has only strengthened over time. He reflects on his bond with his bandmates, especially Scott’s son Ayden, who has continually impressed Delp with his guitar talent. Delp also shares a special relationship with his other bandmates, Ethan Schluter and Jakob Ripp, both of whom have brought a unique energy to the group.

Power Take Off: A New Chapter in Delp’s Career

Photo Courtesy: John Flores

With Delp’s steady dedication to his craft, Power Take Off has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the rock scene. In September 2025, the band’s single, “Revolution,” charted at number 23 on the SMR Top 50, marking their fourth consecutive hit on the chart. The song, recorded in Nashville with Malcolm Springer, is a testament to the band’s hard work and musical prowess. It’s a sign of bigger things to come, as Power Take Off is set to hit multiple states in October 2025, including several dates across Texas, the Southwest, Mississippi, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

The band’s plans extend well into 2026, with several tours lined up alongside major headliners across the U.S. The collaboration with multi-platinum producer Chuck Alkazian in Detroit shows that Power Take Off is poised for greater success, with hopes of a Billboard Top 40 push. Their work with Stryker Records and Virgin Music Group has further cemented their place in the music industry.

Delp’s Musical Legacy

Beyond the stage, Mike Delp’s love for the arts has shaped his life in many ways. He has a deep connection to film, particularly the Star Wars franchise, and his collection of Star Wars and Marvel memorabilia reflects his lifelong obsession with movies. Delp’s passion for collecting comic books has only intensified over the years, with his collection of over 300 comics serving as a testament to his dedication to the medium.

Although Delp has had his share of struggles, he remains committed to living a balanced life. His work with Power Take Off is not just about making music, but about continuing the legacy of artists who have influenced him throughout his life.

Wisdom and Wit from Mike Delp

Two quotes immediately come to mind for Mike Delp:

• “Your focus determines your reality” by Jedi Master Qui Gon Jinn. This is one of Delp’s all-time favorites. He finds it immensely applicable and much more profound than a quote from a kids’ movie has a right to be.

• “Don’t drink sober” – a phrase Delp recently muttered while recording in Nashville.

Moving Forward: Power Take Off’s Bright Future

As Power Take Off continues to climb the ranks of the rock scene, Mike Delp remains at the heart of the band’s success. The band’s chart success, growing fan base, and upcoming tours are a testament to the hard work and dedication that Delp and his bandmates have put into their music. With future collaborations on the horizon and a deepening connection to their music, the band is poised for an exciting future.