Mick Blankenship – Rule The World

By starrymag | December 10, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) HARD ROCK or perhaps “post-nu metal” roots but with a unique, fresh sound.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Queensryche, Disturbed, STP, Sevendust and Alice in Chains are prob my Top 5.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Rule the World.”

 

A) It was inspired by social media. I became disturbed by the amount of young people sacrificing their dignity (or worse) for what they perceive as “fame.”

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) It’s a high energy song with catchy riffs with a bit of ironic truth. I think its super relatable to many people.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) There are some hidden messages for sure. I think the theme says it all. I wanted to portray my anger about the subject as well as expose the truth about it.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) Lyrics are ALWAYS last for me. Everything starts with a beat and the song tells me what it wants. The hardest part is removing my selfish wants so I can listen the spirit of the song. I am simply an interpreter of the spirit.

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) Usually, it’s just me. I have collaborated with John Moyer from Disturbed on a few songs on my first record. However, “Rule the World” was 100% me

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) YES! – The new record is done on my end. I am currently looking for label support to release it.

 

Q) With concerts currently on hold, do you have any plans for live streaming performances?

 

A) Absolutely NOT! I do not believe or support the idea of “live video performances.” It defeats the entire purpose of what I am doing. If the world comes to that, my time as an entertainer is done. The human connection must be present for me. Besides, social media giants penalize artists now for trying to do just that. They make it IMPOSSIBLE for indie artists to even try to survive.

 

Q) What do you miss most about being on stage?

 

A) Connecting with people through energy and being a part of something. Having purpose in music is everything to me.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) I always enjoy playing my hometown, but I’m a big fan of the south! I love FL, GA, AL etc…

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) Brendan Urie from Panic! at the Disco. I feel a massive connection to his music but it is so different than what I do. I think a song with that guy would be so much fun!

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) I have been listening to the band Kamelot quite a bit lately. Just love their Queensryche vibe, but with a great connection to inner music presence. It just feels so good!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) Necessary evil. Right now it’s my ONLY tool for marketing and distribution. Its technically free as long as you play by their rules. LOL! But how else does an independent Rock artist get their music out there in 2020?

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) THANK YOU – There is no way I could do this without them. I want them (every single one) to understand how vital and important they are to my career. I love you all and I try my absolute best to connect with them and remember each one.