About Michael Schenker
MSG is a legendary name. After two phenomenal records under the guise of Michael Schenker Fest, a true guitar hero is returning to his roots. By forming Michael Schenker Group (MSG) back in 1979, Michael Schenker laid the foundations for one of hard rock’s most glorious solo careers of all time. And while nobody expected anything less from a former guitarist for Scorpions and UFO, it’s close to impossible to mention everything Michael has built over the past 50 years, or the countless people he influenced or played with. This, truly, is the stuff that hard-rocking myths are made of.
I never looked back is how Michael dryly sums up an extraordinary career. Due to this mindset, he only realised much later what a huge impact his playing had made on the world of metal and hard rock. Very few guitarists can be cited as a primary influence for the likes of James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Dave Mustaine, Dimebag Darrell, Slash or Kerry King. However, to understand Michael Schenker means to understand one primary thing: he’s not here to be worshipped or adored; he’s not here to get rich; he’s here to play. And at 71, he’s doing it with the same swagger, verve and dizzying artistry as always. “I’m still 16 in my head,” he laughs.
I never wanted fame or success. I was always happiest when I was left in the sandbox with what I liked the most. Without rivalry, without competition, only focusing on pure, unfiltered creativity. And at that, nothing tops a guitar. It’s the best instrument to truly express something. There isn’t a sound out there that’s more complete.
Michael Schenker doesn’t live to play; he plays to live.