Michael Lane releases the happy upbeat indie folk single "Good Times" on April 30th. „Although 'Good Times’ is a very upbeat and happy song, it still has a more serious and deeper meaning. Without getting too much into it, in the song I’m basically saying that, just because you surround yourself with a new house or nice car, doesn’t mean it will give you more happiness in the long run.“ - Michael Lane explains.
If there is a modern folk-pop artist who has seen the harsh realities in life, it is Michael Lane himself. As a US soldier in his twenties, sent to Iraq and Afghanistan, Michael was forced to live at cruelty. And if his previous albums were like a kind of musical diary in which these experiences were reflected, Michael Lane's regained ease and joy can clearly be seen in „Good Times“. The song is a message of hope and positive certainty that a time of crisis will lead people back to the important things.
Successes such as two top 50 songs in the German charts, four albums, international tours and the single "Liberty" as the official song of the 2015/2016 Four Hills Tournament, Europe’s biggest international ski jump event, have made the German-American known to the public. In addition to his work as a musician, Michael Lane is currently also active as a songwriter for production music and as a music producer in his remote "Studio Waldblick“.
Michael Lane is...?
A down to earth dude who likes to play his sitar and pet his kitty. I also have the Talent of not giving a shit when it fits my needs
Who inspired you to make music?
That’s a tricky question. I don’t think it’s a who, but more of a „what inspires me to make music“ ? In that case, I would have to say life and all it’s surprises.
What or who inspired you to "Good times"?
My ex wife. I’ll just leave it at that haha!
What is your creative process like?
It’s not very complicated that’s for sure. I’ll start with some chords or guitar, maybe hum a melody along with whatever I’m playing. If I like it, I’ll record it on my phone and save it for later.
Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Boards of Canada. They are my favorite band. If I had to choose someone else, then Sam Beam from iron and wine.
What is the most useful talent you have?
Probably being able to do many different things. I’m pretty good at getting good at something, if that makes any sense.
...and of course your most useless talent is?
I can make my eyes twitch back and forth really fast which usually freaks people out :D
If you could change anything in the past, what would it be?
I would have started making music at a much younger age.
How do you feel the Internet (especially Social Media platforms) has impacted the music business?
People can share music faster. Artists can get better exposure and have the means to accelerate their growth and reach.
What do you know about Austria?
I’ve toured in Austria before, it’s an amazing country, beautiful landscape, hope I get to visit again!
What’s next for you?
Producing lots of music, and when corona is over hopefully play some shows again!
