Music Mike

Once in a while, if very lucky, some of us are touched by the hand of God. Whilst scouring the interweb for old blues related footage, my thoughts turned strangely towards the 60/70s country rock singer-songwriter and session musician Leon Russell. A man who achieved fame for his collaborations with Joe Cocker, and worked with Phil Spector, Jerry Lee Lewis and Glen Campbell. He also wrote the song "Superstar" which went on to become a major hit for The Carpenters. However, it turns out that Leon Russell was a mere warm up act to the main attraction... that attraction being Music Mike!

It was exactly 17 seconds before I realised that the above segment was not a joke, but instead presented in good faith with the most sincere intentions for both its audience and subject. Firstly, 'Music Mike's' appearance and delivery swiftly turned my bemusement to incessant giggling, as I had, no doubt about it, struck comedy gold. If the introduction wasn't enough, then stay tuned for Mike's presentation of Russell's somewhat dismal 80s rendition of Danny O'Keefe's "Good Time Charlie's Got The Blues" which Mike describes as "polished" and "really good". This is all delivered with the kind of swagger only Music Mike can pull off without breaking sweat.

Music Mike's wardrobe is renowned for elegance and style, and this is demonstrated wonderfully by a simple creamy white turtle neck and some classic dark denim boot cut jeans. His pose is also never in doubt. Music Mike is a seasoned professional at the wide stance, with one leg perched on a support, and a 45" sleeve resting on his lap... he just makes it look all too easy.

The record playing sequence, with it's sophisticated editing, is something which just has to be seen to be believed. The whole thing was obviously put together quickly whilst Music Mike's wife (Mrs Mike) was on the golf course. His parents also must have been some sort of prophets to name their son Music, considering it would later become his number one passion.