MIKE GILL – BEYOND PURPLE & LIVESAY
I had the pleasure and honor to interview one of Ct.’s rock legends and impending “International Man”, Mike Gill. One could say his voice is a gift from God, but it appears his clan of 13 are all blessed musically. Growing up in the Gill household, laughing, singing and entertaining the neighborhood was aplenty, as well as finding time to play harmonica and develop quite the skill for years to come.
Gill‘s humble beginnings started out with literally, home-grown bands consisting of multiple configurations of different family members to form the “band” of the moment, although he will not quite disclose what sibling has the best voice! If I had to guess, Mike‘s nonagenarian dad fits the bill.
Mike has been a solid front man for many household bands including RTM, Magnum, Equinoxx, Beyond Purple and Livesay. When asked about his favorite style of music to “sing”, without hesitation, it is the Deep Purple songs he connects with the most: due to style, harmonies and lyrics. Both Gill and monster lead guitarist for Beyond Purple Jimi Bell, who is also no stranger to fame provide their audiences that deep connection to the musical influences that helped mold and shaped them to the artists they are today. It’s a lot of fun watching these two, they have way too much fun!
For those fans who have heard Beyond Purple perform, undeniably, Gill‘s voice ranks with those of his predecessors and Fathers of rock like Aerosmith, Alice Cooper and Led Zeppelin. Beyond Purple having performed for the last few years and most notably at Daryl’s House, is a household name in the Northeast corridor. The tribute band has been recently scouted by several esteemed talent agents and Mike and the band look forward to new opportunities afforded to them.
The last several years have been extremely generous to Mike, despite the unprecedented pandemic and the far-reaching effects not only on a national health level, but for our artists as well. The new norm literally has been high-octane for Mr. Gill. One of Gill‘s newest love is writing lyrics. “International Man” was his sophomoric debut and was birthed at the Rock and Skull Fest in Illinois. The single release was met with much attention and received critical acclaim. As the current front man for the heavy metal band, Livesay, Mike will be putting pen to paper and add songwriting to his vast musical repertoire as Livesay returns to the studio this summer to begin the recording of their 6th album.
Between Gregg Livesay’s neoclassical influence, extraordinary and gifted talents and collaboration with engineering guru, the great BJ Zampa (House of Lords/Dokken), I would have to venture we have a lot to look forward to from Livesay. Much anticipation to see what these wildcats treat us with. They have a solid three songs recorded for the next album.
Married to his high school sweetheart, Linda, prioritizing family and enjoying the simple things in life like golf, music and his perfect yard and pool, Mike Gill is just an all round awesome human being. He is particularly thankful for the love and support of one of his greatest friends and mentor, Mark Zito, keyboardist extraordinaire. Their 10+ history has contributed and influenced Mike‘s ability to become a songwriter and expand his musical knowledge. Undeniably, their chemistry on stage tells the story of mutual respect, admiration and friendship.
Mike is looking forward to the future. He is thankful the “Glam-Hair, Punk Rock and Grunge” periods are over with…so he does not have to worry about hair, makeup or wardrobe and just focus on music. He is thankful to be doing what he loves. Stay tuned and keep Mike Gill on your radar, Valhalla, he is coming!!
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