Mike Freund’s “Lucky Ones” – A Gritty Anthem for the Fighters, Dreamers, and Survivors
In the often unpredictable journey of life, few artists embody resilience quite like Mike Freund. From the chaos of his first paying gig ending in the ER to the heartbreak of a studio burglary stripping him of his equipment, Mike’s path has been anything but smooth. Yet, these challenges have not defined him—they’ve refined him. His latest single, ‘Lucky Ones’, stands as a triumphant testament to grit, passion, and the unyielding spirit of a blues-rocker who’s found his groove.
Mike Freund’s passion for music is rooted in his New Jersey upbringing, where he grew up watching his father, a pianist for America’s Navy Admirals Band, craft melodies with discipline and finesse. By the age of 12, Freund had fallen for the guitar, channeling the raw energy of legends like The Allman Brothers Band, Guns N’ Roses, and Bruce Springsteen, blending these influences with the funky grooves of The Meters. But it wasn’t just his family or idols who shaped his artistry. Freund’s high school English teacher, Scott Sacs, introduced him to the art of storytelling in songwriting and icons like Paul Simon, laying the groundwork for the profound narratives that now define his music.
With ‘Lucky Ones’, Freund dives deep into the human experience, exploring themes of disparity, perseverance, and gratitude. The song isn’t a lament for what’s lost but a fiery celebration of the fighters—the people who, despite all odds, carve out their place in the world.
At its core, ‘Lucky Ones’ is unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll. Its foundation rests on the rich, resonant tones of a baritone guitar, which adds a darker, almost brooding texture to the track. This instrument choice sets the tone, creating a sonic landscape that feels weighty and raw, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of struggle and triumph.
The instrumentation crescendos into a slide guitar solo that could be described as nothing less than electric. Drawing inspiration from the powerhouse stylings of Gov’t Mule and the gritty dynamism of Clutch, this solo is the song’s heartbeat—a climactic moment that encapsulates defiance, passion, and triumph.
Backing Mike’s commanding vocals and guitar work are his bandmates—Tad Fletcher’s pulsating bass lines, Jonathan Alcon’s thunderous drums, and Jake Henry’s soulful keyboard harmonies. Together, they forge a sound that is both meticulously crafted and refreshingly organic.
To make ‘Lucky Ones’ more than just a song but an experience, Freund has devised an ambitious release plan. Fans will not only hear the song but see and feel it in two distinct ways: A Live Performance Video. Shot in a one-take, live-to-tape format, this video captures the raw energy of Freund and his band in their element. The chemistry among the musicians is palpable, their passion unmistakable. It’s the closest thing to a live show without being in the front row.
A Lyric Video. Designed to amplify the song’s narrative, the lyric video provides a visual gateway into the song’s message. The words leap off the screen, engaging listeners and encouraging them to connect with the story on a deeper level. Both videos debut simultaneously with the audio release, ensuring a multifaceted introduction to a track poised to resonate with fans of blues, rock, and soul.
Mike Freund’s ‘Lucky Ones’ is a defiant shout in the face of adversity, a soulful anthem for those who refuse to back down. With poignant lyrics, dynamic instrumentation, and an unforgettable slide guitar solo, the track is a celebration of resilience and gratitude.
For fans of authentic, heartfelt blues rock, ‘Lucky Ones’ is both timeless and timely, a track that feels as relevant now as it would have in the golden age of Southern rock. Freund’s storytelling is compelling, his musicianship impeccable, and his passion undeniable.
Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Mike Freund’s work or a newcomer to his journey, ‘Lucky Ones’ offers something profound: a reminder that, no matter the odds, it’s not about where you start—it’s about how hard you fight. So, turn up the volume, let the guitars wash over you, and celebrate life’s fighters. Because in the end, aren’t we all just lucky ones?
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