Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Middleton.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was a touring and recording drummer who moved from DC in 1987. Working with various artists professionally until about 2020. I still played for fun, but after my thirty year friend and bandmate Mojo Nixon died in 2024, I decided I wanted to record an album with my musical family that I have known and played with for forty plus years. I had thirty of these lifelong friends from all over the country play and sing on thirteen songs. I came up with the idea to do a record based on bands I saw when Austin became the Live Music Capital of the World. I called the project Liberty Lunchbox and it should be out in time for Christmas!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve recorded a lot in the past, but was never in charge. I surrounded myself with people who could collaborate without ego and had the talent and passion for the project. I had to learn a lot about the business aspect of which has been fascinating to find out how little I knew about the non-musical side of the record business.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I played drums all around the world. If you want to know what touring in a minor league band is like, watch Bull Durham or Slapshot. The brotherhood and camaraderie is what keeps you going when the road gets rough.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I’ve been here when you could get from Ben White to 183 in fifteen minutes. I miss that. There is no other city that has as many great places to eat as Austin. I would rank food as my favorite thing about Austin specifically
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Liberty_Lunchbox
