Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Wolf.
Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up, my parents were lovers of music, and always had music playing. I was introduced to various genres of music at a young age. Being a dancer since the age of 7, also connected me to music in many ways. I wrote my first song at 11 years old, and at 13 years old, my brother started teaching me how to play guitar. Throughout my early years, my brother and I would have jam sessions, playing instruments and singing our favorite rock songs. In my early teens, I performed in talents shows, and different school contests. Later in my teens and early twenties, I started performing at different fundraisers and coffee shops. I also started recording my original works at local recording studios. My twenties brought releasing my first album, being the front woman for various rock/alternative/experimental bands, and collaborating with many other musicians and friends. Now in my thirties, I have honed in to my craft- still writing, recording, and performing around the Metro Detroit Area- sharing and bearing my soul with the world through music as a solo artist. Forever aspiring to inspire!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think its all about perspective. When you’re deep in a rough patch or bump in the road, it’s hard to see a way out. It takes constant persistence and grit to be an artist of any kind. It takes complete vulnerability to share you soul with the world, and everyone has an opinion about it. But in those times of struggle, I just kept going. I kept putting one foot in front of the other, and did the next best thing. Rehearsing, booking shows, networking, meeting other people in the industry- all of that can be challenging, especially at times when you feel like you aren’t “getting anywhere.” But then one day- you’re booking shows at venues you never thought you would, inspiring complete strangers, and feeling good about the music you are sharing, and it all seems worth it. In times of doubt, I always ground myself, and remember why I do it. It’s my therapy, the way to share my life story with the world. It’s not one single moment of success- its thousands of tiny moments (sometimes unnoticed) that make the JOURNEY successful.
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 am a Singer, Songwriter, Acoustic Guitarist. My original music shares the experience of life through my own eyes. My songs share my life experiences- trauma, pain, heartbreak, but most of all hope. I think people can connect with my music because we are all living the human experience. Though our experiences may be different- I think we all share the same emotions trying to navigate our own lives and relationships. I think listeners also connect to the songs I choose to cover- because some of those songs take them by surprise, or brings them back to a place they once knew, and can still feel. Music is all about a moment. A single moment in time where you hear and feel memories. And I get to experience that over and over again, with every song. And I think listeners can feel that too. I think my vulnerability, and raw/real performances are what draws in listeners. You can’t fake real- I am genuinely me. I am most proud that I am still going! I’ve been a working performer for over 12 years, and I could have never dreamed this when I was a pre-teen, belting out songs in my bedroom. I’m proud of my progress as a musician, and the simple fact that I just keep going, no matter the obstacles I am faced with. I only want to become the best version of myself every single day.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I think first and foremost you have to be your own mentor. Be your own cheerleader. When you sit within yourself, and are creating your art, you have to believe it. You have to have the guts to bear your soul and believe in it, even if others don’t. I think it’s a great balance though- you have to stay true to you, but also be moldable, be coachable. Results aren’t instant- and I can truly say that different experiences throughout my musical journey didn’t always make sense until years down the road. Remembering its a journey is a great tool. I am grateful for the support of my family, friends, and loved ones- they have always rooted me on and believed in me. But it’s ME that really believes in me. Meeting other musicians, sound engineers. etc in the music business has been a great inspiration to me as well. Creating relationships and being open to feedback, and learning from others who are more talented than you- it’s all going to make you better. There’s always something to learn from every soul you meet. Never stop learning. Keep the hunger to always be better than you were yesterday. Never put a cap on your potential.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellewolf_music
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellewolfmusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@michellewolf_music
- Other: https://www.linktr.ee/michellewolfmusic
