Michael Schenker
Michael Schenker
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Michael Schenker's full name is Michael Emil Werner Schenker. He is often referred to by his nickname "Mad Ax" due to a guitar tuning that was peculiar for its time.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on January 12, 1945, in Munich, Germany, Michael Schenker passed away on May 8, 2023, at the age of 78.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Michael Schenker holds German nationality. As a renowned musician, he is best known as a guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in a family steeped in music, Michael's father, Rudolf Schenker, was the founder of the Scorpions. This exposure to rock music at an early age instilled in him a passion for playing the guitar. His musical talent was evident from childhood, and he began performing professionally as a teenager.
Major Accomplishments
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Michael Schenker's illustrious career spans over five decades. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Founding UFO in 1968, along with Pete Way and Phil Mogg.
Forming the Michael Schenker Group (MSG) in 1979, which featured some of the most talented musicians in rock history, including Gary Barden on vocals and Vinnie Moore on guitar.
Recording several successful albums, such as "The Michael Schenker Group" (1980), "One Night at Budokan" (1981), and "Built for Revolution – Live in Japan" (1997).
Being named one of the greatest guitarists of all time by Guitar World magazine.
Notable Works or Actions
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Throughout his career, Michael Schenker has been involved in numerous projects that showcase his musical versatility. Some notable works include:
Collaborating with other rock legends on various albums and tours.
Founding the band Scorpions' sister act, UFO.
* Recording a series of acoustic albums, including "In the Still of the Night" (2000) and "Chrysalis – The Best of Michael Schenker Group" (2008).
Impact and Legacy
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Michael Schenker's impact on rock music is undeniable. He has been credited with influencing some of the most iconic guitarists in history, including Tony Iommi and Eddie Van Halen.
His innovative playing style, which combines melodic sensibilities with technical prowess, continues to inspire new generations of musicians. His legacy extends beyond his own music as well; he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of hard rock and heavy metal for decades to come.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Michael Schenker's quotes often reflect his passionate advocacy for the importance of creativity in music. His insightful comments on songwriting, performance, and collaboration have resonated with fans and fellow musicians alike. As a highly respected figure in rock history, Michael Schenker's opinions carry significant weight within the music community.
His legacy is not just about selling records or performing sold-out shows; it is also about inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams and forge their own paths in the world of rock 'n' roll.
Quotes by Michael Schenker

I play with feeling so I need to hear what is coming out of the amplifier to inspire me; I don't just play mechanically. I need to hear what I am doing in order to create the next note. If I don't hear it then I can't feed myself.

If you are a musician and you dont show any interest on the business level then you are actually vulnerable and people will rip you off. They will sweet talk you into anything.

Phil has always been a fighter. He was getting in fights all the time. I told him that if he ever hit me then I would leave the band. He wanted to find out if I was telling him the truth. He hit me so I left and that is how UFO split up.

I have always known that it comes from deep within myself. I always knew what sound I wanted, and how I wanted to play. I knew everything, it just had to be developed.

It would be a dream come true if I could just go from studio to studio and play solos.




