Mike Wallz, hailing from Silver Spring, Maryland, has lived a life intertwined with the worlds of sports and music, forging a path that’s uniquely his own. Born to a father who was a multifaceted athlete and a mother who was a performance artist, Mike was raised in a household where sports and music coexisted harmoniously. It’s this dual upbringing that has shaped his remarkable journey.
A Childhood of Dual Influences: Mike’s upbringing was a testament to the harmonious coexistence of sports and music. His father’s passion for athletics became a guiding force in his life, instilling in him the values of discipline, dedication, and teamwork. Meanwhile, his mother’s artistic pursuits in music provided a creative counterbalance, nurturing his love for melodies and rhythms.
The Transition from Music to Sports: During his formative years, Mike dabbled in both sports and music. He played instruments throughout middle and high school, but his athletic talents couldn’t be ignored. He pursued a Division One football scholarship at Penn State, where his dedication to sports took center stage. Yet, even as he excelled on the football field, Mike’s passion for music never waned.
A Rising Star in Music: While at Penn State, Mike capitalized on his growing popularity as a student-athlete to promote his music. He became a sensation in the 2009 to 2012 era of music, sharing stages with renowned artists like Mac Miller and Big Sean. His journey through college, which included producing his student-radio show “Off The Wallz Radio,” allowed him to build a network that would eventually facilitate his move to Los Angeles to pursue music full-time.
The Unforgettable Kanye West Show: One pivotal moment that solidified Mike’s love for music was his first-ever show, which happened to be for Kanye West’s “Glow in the Dark Tour” alongside NERD and Rihanna. The experience left an indelible mark on him, serving as a constant reminder of his musical aspirations.
Navigating the Music Industry: Mike’s post-college years were marked by the challenges of adulting and navigating the complexities of the music industry as a 22-year-old newcomer. While he encountered setbacks, his passion for music remained undiminished.
From Musician to Entrepreneur: During his time in LA, Mike ventured into the digital media field and found success as a creative entrepreneur. He partnered with 1500 or Nothin’ and immersed himself in the music business from a different perspective—behind the camera.
A Journey on the Road with Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj: By working behind the scenes, Mike’s journey took another exciting turn when Rance Dotson provided him with an opportunity to tour with Jay-Z during the “4:44 Tour,” which led to a stint on Nicki Minaj’s World tour. His experiences on the road only deepened his connection to music.
A New Song and an MBA: Recently, Mike released a new song called “KIN” featuring Cardigan, accompanied by a captivating video. He has plans for a merchandise collection and is excited to promote the song during the holiday season. In addition to his music pursuits, Mike graduated with an executive MBA from Penn State, equipping him with an executive viewpoint to approach his music career.
A Vision for Independent Music: Mike’s goal for the future is to grow his community by consistently executing dynamic music campaigns, proving that the independent music business is not only achievable but thriving. He’s elevating his company Free Life Entertainment.
Acknowledging the Support System: Mike Wallz is quick to recognize the support system that has been instrumental in his journey. From his manager, Alex Storm, to his life partner and business partner, Selena Watkins, and his talented collaborators like Cami on the Cam and Lightfoot, Mike’s journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and community.
Mike Wallz’s journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities that arise when one embraces their passions and refuses to be confined by traditional boundaries. From sports to music to entrepreneurship, Mike continues to push the envelope, driven by his unwavering love for music and his desire to make a mark on the world. As he sets his sights on a future filled with independent music success, there’s no doubt that Mike Wallz is a name to watch in the ever-evolving music landscape.
Follow Mike Wallz:
Instagram TIKTOK Youtube Linktree Spotify
“KIN” – Mike Wallz ft. Cardigan
Spotify Apple Music Music Video KIN Merch
Find Cardigan
Instagram Group 3BLACKKIDS Linktree
