Silver Spring, Maryland, has been home to many talented individuals, and one of its native sons, Mike Wallz, has forged a unique path that weaves together the worlds of sports and music. His upbringing, guided by his father’s athletic influence and his mother’s passion for performance art, has set the stage for a remarkable journey of self-discovery. Mike’s childhood was marked by a harmonious blend of his parents’ passions. His father, a multifaceted athlete, imparted valuable lessons in sports, instilling in him the values of discipline, teamwork, and dedication. Simultaneously, his mother’s artistic pursuits in dance introduced him to the enchanting world of melodies and rhythms, igniting a lifelong love for music.
In fourth grade, Mike took his first steps into the world of music, starting to play the trumpet. It was in middle school that his music teacher, Mr. Lucas, introduced him to The Youngblood Brass Band and a song featuring Talib Kweli called “Y’all Stay Up.” This transformative moment inspired Mike to switch to the tuba, an instrument he continued to play throughout middle and high school.
During high school, Mike found inspiration in the form of Stanley and Steven Spotswood, who invited him into their home studio. Their father, a recording artist and Choral Teacher at Good Counsel High School passed on his extensive knowledge of music to his sons, who, in turn, shared their wisdom with Mike. This experience not only expanded his musical horizons but also introduced him to the world of recording and engineering.
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Mike Wallz’s journey encompassed both sports and music throughout his formative years. While he continued to excel in sports, securing a Division One football scholarship at Penn State, his passion for music remained a constant force in his life. He astutely used his growing popularity as a student-athlete to promote his music, becoming a sensation between 2009 and 2012, sharing stages with prominent artists like Mac Miller and Big Sean.
One of the pivotal moments in Mike’s musical journey was his very first show, opening for Kanye West’s “Glow in the Dark Tour” with NERD and Rihanna. This unforgettable experience left an indelible mark, reinforcing his deep connection to music.
As Mike transitioned into adulthood, his journey led him to Los Angeles, where he grappled with the intricacies of the music industry as a 22-year-old fresh out of college. Facing the realities of adulthood head-on, this period was characterized by challenges that only served to keep him close to his music. Later, venturing into the digital media field, Mike began achieving success as a creative entrepreneur. His partnership with 1500 or Nothin’ opened doors to the music business from a behind-the-scenes perspective, giving him a new lens through which to view his passion.
Mike’s journey took an exciting turn when Rance Dotson provided him with an opportunity to tour with Jay-Z during the “444 Tour.” This significant experience led to further touring, including a stint on Nicki Minaj’s World Tour. Music remained the constant that filled a vital void in his life.
In 2015, Mike crossed paths with Cardigan, a fellow musician who played a pivotal role in reigniting his music career after a setback. They met through a collective called Afrohouse, where musicians gathered to network and collaborate. Two years later, a surprising revelation connected them even more deeply. While examining his family tree, Mike discovered Caribbean roots in his father’s lineage, and Cardigan’s last name, “Barrow,” appeared on the tree. It turned out they were long-lost blood relatives. This newfound kinship fueled their creative collaboration, resulting in the release of their new single, “KIN.”
Mike Wallz’s musical journey is far from over. With plans for a merchandise collection and the excitement of promoting “KIN” during the holiday season, his passion for music continues to burn brightly. In addition, Mike recently graduated with an executive MBA from Penn State, equipping him with an executive viewpoint to approach his music career.
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Looking ahead, Mike’s goal is to consistently release music centered around dynamic campaigns, demonstrating that an independent music business is not only attainable but thriving.
Mike graciously acknowledges the invaluable support system that has been instrumental in his journey. From his manager, Alex Storm, to his life partner and business collaborator, Selena Watkins, and his talented collaborators like Video Director Cami on the Cam and Music Producer Lightfoot, Mike emphasizes the power of synergy and community.
Mike Wallz’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring bonds of family. From his Silver Spring roots to Los Angeles and beyond, Mike’s path has been marked by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering passion for music. As he continues to create and inspire, Mike Wallz is a name to watch in the ever-evolving world of music.
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“KIN” – Mike Wallz ft. Cardigan
