"And the thing that you want the most,
you try to push it away.

Do you have a feel for it?
Reach out -
you can dream, but you can't think.

It'll drive insane,
leave you wondering how much more can you take.

Cause the way to love
is straight through pain."


Straight Through Pain
Freedom Ryder

Michael Southern hails from Washington State. He later spent many years in Chattanooga, Tennessee and parts of Colorado. He now lives, writes and performs in the Tampa Bay, Florida area.


His music
Around 15 years ago Michael began his journey with the Lakota people. High in the mesas of South Dakota he learned the teachings of a medicine man through rigorous ceremonies and sweat lodges. As it were, let's say, he made a trade. Michael chose to give up "a partying lifestyle" for the songs.

It was then that his songwriting really began to blossom and shine. Michael has been writing songs for over 25 years, but this new clarity brought new life and meaning to his material.




Musical Influences
Michael is originally a blues harp man but his musical background is extensive… everything from several hard working blues bands to traveling the country with Voice Orchestra & Singers. Some of his influences are Charlie Musslewhite and Paul Butterfield.

Michael's thought provoking style will leave you breathless and deep down your senses will be altered.