3 Reasons You Should See Micky James Live

The music of NYC-based rock artist Micky James has an authenticity to it that’s almost tangible.

In a rare confluence of qualities, he can be seen as both a rock star, and an everyman. On the one hand, he has just enough glam rock sensibilities to let people know he’s definitely front and center. On the other hand, he has a songwriting, and performance style that will have you rocking out to songs that are remarkably relatable.

The way he flips a friend’s depressive state into something wholly supportive on “Not Okay” is a prime example of the latter. On the song he sings – “I got your back while you’re falling apart / If you wanna get drunk, call me so you’re not alone / If you’re not okay you can say so / If you’re not okay it’s okay.”

With all this in mind, I was stoked to see Micky at Arlene’s Grocery in NYC, and lemme tell ya, the next time he books a show in the city I’ll be in the crowd again.

Here are three reasons why you should join me in that crowd, and see Micky James live.

1. He’s a force of nature on stage 

On this particular night Micky was sharing the bill with two other acts, both of whom put on great performances, to the point where I’m going to make sure to see them again the next time they’re at one of my local haunts. That said, as soon as Micky took the stage it was abundantly clear who the headliner was.

His raw energy, enthusiasm, and desire to turn what was already a great night into an even better night was incredible. He was like the living embodiment of a gallon of Red Bull.

Micky also possesses something rare – he has the “it factor.” Yes, I know that’s a bit of cliche, but when you watch him perform you just know there’s something special there. Once he hits the stage, all eyes, and ears, are drawn to him, and they stay there until the final note of the final song in the set.

2. He’s a force of nature in the crowd 

In addition to tearing it up on stage, Micky took some time to jump into the crowd to sing, and dance with fans. At one point this almost caused a minor calamity when his microphone cord started wrapping around a monitor, but his saxophone player made a covert assist to free the cord, and help Micky avoid taking himself, or any equipment, out.

When in the crowd, Micky was having a blast, and the feeling was infectious.

3. His shows are truly for everybody 

If I were to use just one word to describe the environment of a Micky James show, it would be – welcoming.

The vibe he creates is one where everybody feels like they belong. There are no cliques, there is no exclusivity, there are no “cool kids.” It’s like the entire world is his tribe, and he’s ready to use his music to relate to each person on the most human of levels.

By the end of his set I think everyone in the crowd had a smile on their face, and felt a connection to the man they’d just seen on stage.

 

To find out when, and where, Micky James will be performing next, check out his website for show dates.