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Michael Lee Firkins Interview
Michael Lee Firkins
On this episode I speak with guitarist Michael Lee Firkins, born in Omaha, Nebraska. He first gained attention as the “next big thing” in instrumental rock with his impressive guitar skills. On his just released album “YEP” on the Magna Carta label, he puts his singer/songwriter skills on display, backed up by the legendary Chuck Leavell (Rolling Stones, John Mayer, Allman Brothers), and Matt Abts and Andy Hess of Govt. Mule.
This album draws on rock, blues, country, and even some heavy metal vituosity, and is impressive for a first vocal outing. We talk about his musical development, beginnings, the guitar (in the photo to the left) that he conceived, and his development as a singer and songwriter.
Interview with Chuck Leavell after his Grammy Award for Lieftime Achievement
In 2012 I caught up with Chuck again after he received a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement, and released Back To The Woods, his tribute CD to the early blues piano players with guest appearances by John Mayer and Keith Richards.
Chuck Leavell – Career Retrospective Interview
Chuck Leavell is one of the world’s premier blues rock pianists—a veteran musician who has recorded and toured with many of the best-known names in the business. He is perhaps best known for his work with the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Black Crowes, and his legendary years with the Allman Brothers Band in the ’70s.
He’s a phenomnal musician who’s been part of so much musical history. In 2008 Chuck did an extensive career retrospective interview with me for All About Jazz.