Mike June makes decidedly timely music, but he does far more than document an era of unease. He has mastered the precarious balance between despair and hope and rendered it melodic across six albums, including Poor Man’s Bible, Exile on Wilson Street, and Lovesick. “It’s discovering artists like Mike June that makes this all worthwhile; he can certainly write a song; and the theme throughout of the ‘working man of all colors and persuasions is being trampled on’ and his execution of those songs is second to none,” writes the Rocking Magpie music blog of Poor Man’s Bible. They add that June “certainly has his finger on the button in a way Bruce hasn’t had for 20 years or more.”
With a voice that resonates with raw emotion and lyrics that paint dark pictures of America’s soul, Mike June stands as a powerful storyteller in contemporary American music. Whether his songs are being dressed in roots-rock (Poor Man’s Bible), or string-band Americana (Exile on Wilson Street), June retains his singular voice, insightful lyrics, dark humor, and heartfelt style no matter the setting.
Hailing from northern New Jersey, in the shadows of New York City, Mike June's journey as a musician began learning Hank Williams songs from his grandfather, who played at the weekly square dance at Bear Mountain, New York in the late ’40s and early ‘50s. June started his first bands after high school, playing in the New Jersey and New York City club scene before striking out as a solo artist with 2001’s Crooked. After several years of gigs and two critically acclaimed records, he made the move to Austin, TX where he toured relentlessly around the world for a decade, before settling in North Carolina.
June’s musical style is a fusion of folk, rock, blues, and country influences, creating a sound that is both classic and contemporary. His lyrics often document America’s era of unease, mastering the precarious balance between despair and hope. Having honed his craft through years of touring and performing, Mike June has garnered a dedicated following across the country. His energetic live performances captivate audiences, transporting them to the heart of his stories with every chord strummed and every word sung.
With several critically acclaimed albums under his belt, including "Exile on Wilson Street" and "Poor Man's Bible," Mike June continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, delivering music that resonates with audiences on a deeply personal level.
As he continues to evolve as a songwriter and performer, Mike June remains committed to his craft, channeling his passion for storytelling into music that leaves a lasting impression on all who listen. His latest record, Modern American Folk Music, a combination of June’s signature style of rock blended with modern rhythms and sounds, was released in August of 2024. It was hailed as a visionary record that foresaw many of the issues plaguing America today. The concept of a political-dance record has since been adopted by several current artists.
June also decided to separate himself from the exploitative streaming-system that now dominates the music industry, in an effort to align his business practices with his deeply held beliefs. All of Mike June's music is exclusively available on his Bandcamp Page.
“His music is what my generation needs, and what older generations need to remember. He sings love songs about the human experience – sometimes his own,” writes The Austin Chronicle, “I consider him a storyteller of the revolution.”
For press inquiries, interviews, or booking information, please contact mike@mikejune.com
