Michael is currently a member of the legendary band, The Guess Who. The band is currently gearing up to release its latest creation, Plein D’Amour. Band members Derek Sharp, Michael Staertow, Leonard Shaw, Michael Devin, and founding member, Garry Peterson have crafted a collection of songs that raises the bar and continues to take things up a notch both musically and sonically.
Michael expressed it best when he said, “We couldn’t think of a better time to introduce the world to an exceptional collection of songs that exude positivity and cohesive energy, a much needed cultural antidote. Now we ARE love -- Plein D’Amour!”
Michael's Gear
Before The Guess Who, Michael was the guitarist for Lou Gramm. Michael is one of only a few guitar players to work with Lou Gramm, the voice of “Hot Blooded,” “Head Games,” “Juke Box Hero,” “I Want to Know to What Love Is” and other signature songs of the classic-rock era. That makes him a full-fledged member of a significant guitar-playing fraternity that also includes Foreigner founder Mick Jones, Nils Lofgren and Vivian Campbell.
“Lou allows me the latitude to insert some of my personality into the songs,” Michael says. “But I still respect this music, which has stood the test of time.”
Michael’s work with Lou has boosted his status in the guitar community. He’s been the focus of articles in Guitar World, Guitar One and Vintage Guitar magazines, and he was featured in Gbase.com’s Gearhead Gazette as well as being the featured guest on many different podcasts. Michael has become an aspiring vlogger, too, capturing short scenes from life on the road with Lou Gramm and artists like Dennis Elliot and Deen Castronovo. (Look for the videos on social media.) Michael has also added Rock & Roll Fantasy Camp “Rock Star Counselor” to his pedigree.
“I really appreciate where I am,” Staertow says. “I’m the luckiest guy in the world getting to do what I love most.”
1) Since the last time we spoke you started working with The Guess Who. What do you have upcoming? Any new releases or tours for 2023?
I joined The Guess Who in mid 2021, just after our industry was opening back up from the pandemic. Since then, we’ve been touring steadily and I’m very happy to be back to work! In July of 2022, we entered the studio to record a new Guess Who LP. The first single/video from that effort was released this past February 10th, which is called “The King”. The second single/video is slated for an April 7th release- this will be the title track from the full length LP called “Plein D’Amour”. I believe the full album will be released sometime in early June and we’re currently in the middle of the tour to support its release.
2) You've toured and recorded with Lou Gramm and now The Guess Who. Can you tell us how you prepare?
Well, interestingly enough they’re very different gigs. But similarly, they’re very diverse catalogs spanning many years and incarnations, meaning members changes and musical style variations. With Lou there was the “guitar driven” era, leading to the ballad keyboard heavy era. Both of which I enjoy. In the Guess Who’s case, this is a band that’s been around for sixty plus years, and has had success with each version of the band. Those versions had guitarist changes, which led to sometimes very different styles. So, to answer your question - in both situations I’ve had to dig into the styles of their respective guitarists to try and capture the essence of the sound that’s defined the band in each version. This has been facilitated with gear adaptations and attention to detail. While trying to be as open minded and as versatile as possible. Best part is it’s enabled me to continue to grow as a guitarist and overall musician.
3) What have you learned from working with these artists that you didn't learn while studying guitar and just staring out?
There’s nothing as valuable as practical and tangible experience. What’s the famous saying? A gig is worth a thousand rehearsals? Being on your toes, being able to adapt to varied circumstances- but the most important is how impactful each artist’s catalog is. There’s a reason their music has stood the test of time. It’s also very rewarding to be an ambassador of their music. Starting out way back, I would’ve never imagined myself playing with either artist, but here I am…full of gratitude and humility.
4) Speaking of starting out, at what age did you get your first guitar and how soon after that did you know that's what you wanted to do?
I got my first guitar at around 7th of 8th grade. It wasn’t my first choice of instruments as I played several different ones from about the age of 6. When I finally picked it up, it was apparent that this was destined to become a lifelong passion and I haven’t put it down since. I kind of knew that I wanted to do this, but the guitar was the key to making it happen. It wasn’t long after I got the guitar, that I was playing in bands and focusing on my future. And here I am!
5) Why do you play Nobels pedals?
Because they’re great! I absolutely love the ODR-1 and it’s such a vibey and versatile pedal capable of a wide range of tones. And in my situation, I need something that’s able to provide that. Not to mention that you’ll see one on just about every reputable players rig! Honored to a part of the club!
Exclusive Interview with Michael Staertow 2018
1) What are you working on now?
Currently I’m entering my sixth touring season with Lou Gramm (Original Vocalist of Foreigner), as well as working on finishing an instrumental EP of cover songs where I replaced the vocal melodies with guitar versions of them. The first single is looking like it’ll be Christina Aguilera’s “Beautiful”. I’m super happy with how it’s turning out too!
2) What is your musical background and influences?
I come from a musical family, where everyone at least sings as well as plays an instrument. Whether it’s guitar or piano, there was always music happening. The guitar wasn’t my first instrument, it was actually the drums at the early age of five. That led to a short stint with violin, then trumpet, until I got braces. Switched to Saxophone, but only for a short time... ultimately the guitar was chosen as an elective class in middle school. It was either that or the piano. The guitar just seemed cooler at the time. So glad I made that choice! My musical influences guitar-wise range from players like Ace Frehley, Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads and Neal Schon. Even the likes of Angus and Malcolm Young. Taking little bits from each to develop my own style. Playing in cover bands from the age of 15, slugging it out in clubs, led to opportunities along the way. Eventually getting “the call” from Lou to fill in for the guitarist he then had, turned into a permanent gig playing a catalog that had sold 100 million records. Almost like a scene from the movie “Rock Star”. Having grown up in the same town as him, I always admired his success - now I get to stand on stage, every night and deliver hit after hit! His influence on my career has been substantial, and I’m grateful for the opportunity and his confidence in me as a guitarist. Ever show I get to literally be his “right hand man”.
3) What is the role of education in music?
I believe the role of education in music to be big! Understanding the rules and parameters you have to work with, then being able to creatively “break” the rules artistically is a pretty powerful tool. Having said that though, there are some incredibly talented, successful musicians and songwriters that have little to no educational background. But their innate ability is incredible. So, I support whichever yields the most beautiful fruit. You can never go wrong with some basic theory to stir up your creative juices. I also taught guitar privately to fifty plus students a week regularly, before I started touring. I always encouraged an understanding of the language of music. Tossing around the idea of a Skype/Facetime Master Class for guitar has been in consideration as of late. Details will be on my website soon!
4) How do you feel about the current ‘state of the music industry’?
It’s in an interesting state that’s not necessarily beneficial to the artist.
5) Why do you play Mooer pedals?
I absolutely love the Mooer product line, especially the mini pedals! There built well, reliable and sound absolutely amazing. We do primarily “fly dates”, so the convenience of their size really makes it quite a simple choice for saving space in an overhead bin, or under the plane. They sound amazing, and can really bring a lame back line to life. A lot of times, the back line we rely on for “fly dates” is not maintained well. Having the ability to plug your Mooer equipped pedal board into these amps makes all the difference in an inspired performance versus the "so so" alternative. I’m looking forward to further exploring all the cool things Mooer currently has to offer, as well what’s up their sleeve!