Clarkston High School graduate Mike Moran is continuing his dream to make it in the music industry. However nowadays, he has a different group of band members helping him.
A year ago, Moran was playing with Clarkston residents Chris Haag, Billy Perkins and Ron Ledwell. The group was looking forward to releasing their first compact disc and also set to tour the Midwest over the summer.
While much has changed with Moran (he currently lives in Traverse City) much has stayed the same as he is anticipating a CD release and a tour.
‘That last group just sort of fell apart,? Moran said. ‘We were going in different directions musically. We just kind of split up.?
When Moran’s parents moved to Traverse City, the singer followed. After shopping his music to numerous companies, he got a call from a studio looking to collaborate with Moran. The studio, called Quarter After Records, got Moran in touch with some local musicians.
‘This was the best decision I ever made. I found some cats that I really love to play with,? Moran, who at the time was playing solo concerts in the area, said.
Current band members include Josh Havens, lead guitar, Dale Swords, bass guitar, and Sterling Hills, drums.
‘The members are some of Northern Michigan’s most experienced and noted musicians,? Moran said. ‘We are putting together the best possible CD.?
The group is currently finishing their debut album titled, ‘Where Were You? The plan is to release the CD on July 9. The group is also planning a Midwest tour to promote the 12 song CD release.
‘I am really happy with how the CD is coming along. It has taken about seven months to make,? Moran said. ‘I have learned so much in the past seven months it is incredible. I have probably learned more in the seven months than I had in my entire musical career. This CD sounds a lot more professional.?
The group is currently booking gigs and Moran would look forward to coming back home for a concert.
‘I would love to come back and play but there is not any place in Clarkston for us to do that. Mr. B’s only allows you to do cover music,? Moran said.
Even though the CD has yet to be released, there is a buzz about the music. Three Oakland County High Schools have voted Moran’s song ‘This is Goodbye? as their Senior Class song.
Moran, who first began playing guitar upon his graduation from CHS, is set to play at the Davison High School graduation.
Anyone interested in the band can go to MikeMoranmusic.com where the CD will be available for purchase after the July release.