MJR
Michael J. Rortvedt is the label's first band, and also its namesake. Michael began playing guitar at the age of 15, picking it up from his brother, Dan. With no formal lessons or training, Michael has relied on listening and learning from some of the greatest. His influences include: Jimmy Page, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, David Gilmour, Alex Lifeson, and many more.
At the age of 16, Michael began writing his own music. Songs which would later surface on his freshman and sophomore LP's ("Today We'll Make It" and "When Tomorrow's Gone"). When he turned 18, Michael began playing local blues clubs and made a name for himself amongst the regulars at such bars as JT Whitney's and Murphy's Tavern in Madison.
It was during this time that he met Greg Ellis, with whom Michael started ER Studios. To this day, all of Michael's releases have been recorded and produced at ER Studios.
Check out the store to purchase some of Michael's music.
For booking information, contact booking@mjrproductions.com
Forty Skylight
Forty Skylight is a band formed by Michael. The band consists of Michael and his brother Dan on vocals. The duo have worked together on several projects in the past, most notably their work in the band "Briton", along with bassit Matt Wisniewski and drummer Nathan Gerdts. Their forthcoming album, "Fear of Mirrors" will be released in the Spring of 2010.
Current lineup:
-Michael (guitars, bass, drums, piano, backup vocals)
-Daniel (lead vocals and guitar)
Forty Skylight has recorded several tracks, a number of them being derivations from each member's previous solo work. In most cases, Michael performs the music while Daniel writes the lyrics and performs the vocals. Most recently, the duo collaborated for an Christmas EP, available for purchase on the " Home" and " Store" pages.
A number of singles from their self-titled EP are also available for purchase in the store.
For booking information, contact booking@mjrproductions.com