Mike Hellman isn't just making great music, he's building a movement. Slinging songs with substance, conviction and grit, he’s on a mission to tell his truth and he insists on being heard. While firmly rooted in the rich country and blues traditions of his home state of Texas, he refuses to pander to cliché and his sound is anything but predictable. For over a decade, he has built his loyal following through rousing live performances that swing from heart-rending ballad to blistering barn burner - his rich baritone conjuring earnestness and humor while dealing head-on with all facets of the human condition (and with a not-so-subtle nod to the downtrodden). An “outlaw” for outlaws, Mike proudly bucks the boundaries of the mainstream country music establishment and boldly reclaims the genre for the working class.
Mike has performed at large venues, honky-tonks and intimate listening rooms across the US, building a dedicated following along the way. Mike has kicked ass at Americanafest, taken names at Folk Alliance conferences, and has been featured in No Depression. He’s shared the stage with prominent americana artists Jason Eady, Melody Walker, Gabe Lee and countless others. He tours widely and is confidently in his element whether crooning for an intimate listening room, or burning down the house with his killer band, the Banned Books.
His 2024 full length release "Trials and Triumphs" has enjoyed enthusiastic reception and features a who’s who of talent: guitarist James Deprato (Chuck Prophet), pedal steel player Ian Taylor Sutton (Vincent Neil Emerson), multi-instrumentalist Chuck Bradley (Hellbound Glory) and mastering by Michael Rosen (Santana, Green Day, etc). Mike is touring widely to support the release, and plans are underway for a sophomore album in early 2026.
Construction worker by day and troubadour by night, Mike somehow still makes time for his many other passions including the outdoors, heavy metal and union organizing. He splits his time between Houston, TX and Santa Cruz, CA.