| About Mike Stewart-Lawrence | Mike was born in the North Country in Skipton, Yorkshire, UK. He has lived most of his grown-up life in Solihull, not far from Birmingham. He started playing the guitar at the age of 8 and by 12 he was playing in local clubs with his own band. Influences From a very young age Mike was fascinated by the music of American Blues greats including Howlin’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and Leadbelly. Later influences included Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Dire Straits and heavier music from bands such as Dare, FM ans even Iron Maiden. On leaving school Mike went on the road as lead singer and guitarist with Birmingham Rock Band, The Phantoms. In the late sixties and early seventies he toured with several well known Rock and Blues bands. Then came a complete U turn, Mike formed the pop folk band Cenotaph Corner, with singer Louise Hislop and later guitarist Martyn Hamm. The acoustic band played mostly Mike’s songs and made four successful albums. Back to rock music and electric guitars, the 1980s and 90s saw the forming of “Midnite Blue” and the heavy rock band “Out of the Storm”. Mike’s first solo album “The Lady and the Scarecrow”, a collection of his own songs was released in 2002 and is still selling today. Three more solo albums followed and a new backing band of quality musicians who accompanying Mike on concerts. But Mike and guitarist, Martyn Hamm, still enjoy doing the occasional acoustic performance in small clubs or theatres. Mike still lives in Solihull with his three large and loveable German Shepherd dogs. Mike fondly imagines he is looking after them, but the dogs know the truth!! |
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