Ryan Michael

Despite big challenges in Ryan Michael’s life he has proven to be a natural born drummer. Before he was eight years old, Ryan had faced serious hearing loss and the death of his Dad. Using his natural talent and personal determination, Ryan is the driving force behind The Trouble With Boys. Despite having lost his hearing completely in his left ear when he was only 5 years old, Ryan sings on key and features his vocal chops during every gig. Ryan didn’t let hearing loss stop him – he is an honor roll student in school, a mid-fielder for the Southern Indiana United, a competitive soccer club, and a gifted musician even though he has hearing in one ear. Ryan faced further obstacles when he was seven years old when his Dad died unexpectedly. Ryan and his twin sister, Rachel, who is a competitive dancer, have persevered. They continue to be high achieving pre-teens and are closely supported by their mother, Debi, who coordinates their busy lives. Ryan started taking private lessons at a local music store, Mom’s Music, when he was 8 years old. He learned to play the drums quickly and soon was pounding so hard on his toy drum that it had to be replaced with his first Yamaha Drum Kit. A year later, he began Rock School, and played through five Rock Schools Sessions. This experience at a very young age gave Ryan the opportunity to play in front of large audiences at popular venues in Louisville, KY, including Jillian’s and Fourth Street Live. During a performance at Fourth Street Live in October 2006, Ryan stood out among all the drummers and was asked to audition for The Trouble With Boys. It was quickly evident that Ryan had the power and talent to drive the pre-teen rock band. Ryan loves to perform and studies other prominent drummers to learn techniques and performance tips. He is influenced by Stewart Copeland of The Police, and he likes to listen to a variety of artists ranging from John Mellencamp to Guns N Roses. In his free time, Ryan enjoys playing Guitar Hero, shooting pool, and burning CD’s. Ryan’s Dad loved rock and roll and would play music on the stereo while Ryan danced and sang along. Ryan’s Dad encouraged him to enjoy and appreciate all types of music, so Ryan is carrying on his Dad’s love of rock and roll through his journey with The Trouble With Boys.

Nickname: Hermy
Eye Color: Blue
Hair Color: Brown
Age: 14
Where were you born: Louisville, KY
When did you start playing music: Age 8, second grade
Favorite Band: The Police
Favorite song: What's It Feels Like To Be A Ghost - Taking Back Sunday
Favorite Movie: The Comebacks
Favorite TV Show: Ninja Warrior
Favorite Sport: Soccer
Favorite Sports Team: Brazil Soccer Team
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite Candy Bar: Reese's Cup
Favorite Subject in School: Social Studies
Favorite Drink: Pepsi
Favorite Book: Soldier X
Do you have any pets? If so what kind: yes, Beagle, his name is "Hershy"
What is your dream pet: A Great Dane of my own
Do you have any siblings? If so how many: Yes, a twin sister
What do you do in your spare time?:Talk on the phone, listen to music, and get on the computer
Besides a Rock Star what would you like to be when you grow up?: I would like to work in a recording studio, own a music store, or work with computers.