Since the age of three, I have wanted to be a professional musician. I recall doing an aptitude and rhythm test in order to be able to start learning guitar at such a young age. The first question was, "Why do you want to learn to play the guitar?" My answer then, was, "Because one day I want to be a rock and roll star." I completed 12 years of guitar lessons in 5 years and competed in many guitar soloist competitions in Ontario where I won first place through to third place awards. That remains my answer today. I was born and raised in London, ON. At age 12, I formed my first band. We won a trophy for our open band competition in Toronto through the Ontario Conservatory of Music. After many players and periods of withdrawing from music, I formed Mixed Trix. We played at the Picadilly Palace, and were supposed to back up John Cougar Mellencamp, but he failed to attend the venue and so we ended up being the main act. We backed up Red Ryder at Le Bar Privilege, in Quebec City. We toured extensively across Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, PEI and New York State.
Many years ago, I retreated from the music scene, for many reasons that I need not go into now... because the most important fact is that I have been actively back in music, pursuing my dream for approximately three years now. The name of my band is Becoming Dawn (new project) and Darkest Dawn. Definitely worthwhile checking out! We have a site on YouTube, Reverbnation, Facebook and more, which are contained in the links below.
I am the founder of the band, Darkest Dawn and Becoming Dawn, and am the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, backup vocals on studio tracks. The universe has given me well-meaning day jobs in the interim while pursuing my music and while they could never come close to fulfilling my life as much as performing on stage, they do offer many inspirations for song writing purposes.
Vocally, I have many idols... but if I have to choose one, it would be Stevie Nicks. I love her song writing and lyrics. I am also influenced by Hole, Concrete Blonde, Joan Jett, Toronto, NIN, Sinead O’Connor, Marilyn Manson, Pink Floyd, and the list goes on, of course. Q108 FM – Kingston is currently airing my solo material and my single “Just Like Me” made number three on the Top 10 Charts!
Writing songs is something that has always come naturally to me since the age of nine years old. Some who know me, have encouraged me to write an autobiography of my life. I chose to write songs, and I know they will be easily identified with by many listeners. My songs tell my story. Sometimes, we have tunnels we have to face... dark tunnels. I want to be that light at the end of the tunnel.
Becoming Dawn is my solo show ramped up with an awesome drummer, Michael Hackman, who is my drummer in my other band, Darkest Dawn (currently not active). Both my solo show and my two-piece band play a variety of well-known yet not overplayed cover songs as well as originals. I have included the bio and links for Darkest Dawn for reference purposes only as it is not a viable act at the moment. The drummer featured in that band is the same drummer in Becoming Dawn. I promise you an energy-filled show!
Becoming Dawn plays all the popular cover songs you know with their own flavour as well as originals. I am very excited about this new project! We debuted at The Corktown Pub, in Hamilton, ON., a couple of weeks ago and have a couple more gigs lined up in Simcoe, at The Place 2 B... a venue I have already performed at as a soloist.
We have a high energy performance you do not want to miss and unlike any two piece band you have seen! It's a show you don't want to miss!
LOCATION: London, Ontario
Michael Hackman - Drums
Web/Social Links