When you mention rock ‘n’ roll, it often surfaces memories of iconic songs and artists from the past. Is rock ‘n’ roll just a distant part of history? With one listen of Sanjay Michael’s new single “Rocking into Midnight,” the answer is most certainly not. It is alive and well, and Sanjay, who is based in Singapore, is bringing us back to the heyday of classic rock and hard-driving blues. It’s got it all, punchy riffs, a catchy chorus, and so much heart.
“Rocking Into Midnight” serves as the lead single for Sanjay's upcoming album of the same name. Each track on the album has its own unique vibe and place within the collection, but they all share a common thread—a dedication to old-school rhythm and stripping things down to their core. Sanjay's musical instinct is to take the groove back to its raw and primal origins, ensuring that every song pulsates with that unmistakable rock 'n' roll energy.
Sanjay's musical journey has been nothing short of unique. Growing up in exotic Malaysia and the diverse landscape of Australia, he was exposed to a myriad of musical influences. However, it was rock 'n' roll that made the biggest impression. Over the years, he honed his skills everywhere, from small bars to professional studios, and played alongside fellow musicians covering the classics. But as time went on, he couldn't help but notice a lack of fresh and fun new rock songs hitting the scene. In the midst of the pandemic in 2020, Sanjay realized that the stillness around him presented the perfect opportunity to write his own songs and inject new life into the genre he holds dear.
Sanjay is on a mission to bring back the holy trinity of the rhythm guitar wall of riffs, the classic blues leads, and the captivating singer-songwriter narratives that defined rock 'n' roll's glory days. With “Rocking Into Midnight,” he's well on his way to achieving that goal.
But Sanjay's contribution to rock 'n' roll doesn't stop there. His upcoming album promises to be a modern rock masterpiece, carrying the genre's torch while pushing its boundaries and evolving its sound. In a world where rock may not be the most popular offering in the mass music market, Sanjay remains steadfast in his belief that its power and allure are unmatched.
When asked about his creative process and the inspiration behind the album, Sanjay opened up about his desire to recreate the monster albums he grew up listening to. Each song was meticulously curated and arranged to take listeners on a journey, with surprises at every turn. While many artists today rely on emulators and simulators to explore their sonic palettes, Sanjay stays true to the roots of rock by employing tube amplifiers. The tried-and-true combination of a Les Paul through a 100w Marshall forms the foundation of his sound, just like the first time he heard Def Leppard's iconic album Hysteria.
Anticipation is building as the release date for the album Rocking Into Midnight draws near—July 7 to be exact. Anticipation continues to build. Sanjay Michael's passion and dedication to rock 'n' roll are palpable in every note he plays and every lyric he sings. His commitment to keeping the genre alive and relevant is commendable, and his music serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless appeal and energy of rock 'n' roll.
Listen to the single “Rocking into Midnight” and get the latest news and updates on Sanjay’s rock ‘n’ roll journey
here.
