We’re heading into year two of Big Kansas City, and looking forward to sharing your stories and those of our speakers over the next few weeks. All of this wouldn’t be possible without our content partner, Pinsight Media+. They are a pioneer in mobile media with deep entrepreneurial roots. Their team brings leadership, experience and global awareness to Kansas City’s booming startup community. To learn more or talk with our friends at Pinsight, email Serge Bushman, sbushman@pinsightmedia.com.
Mike Johnston is considered one of the most skilled drummers in the world. I know—that’s a bold statement. But Mike began playing at the age of five, receiving private lessons from drummers who have played for the likes of Journey, Eric Clapton, Chaka Khan and Johnny Cash. His band Simon Says was signed to a major record deal when he was only 21. Over the course of the next five years, he would tour the world and set the stage for a great career ahead.
In addition to his skill and extensive history in the music industry, Johnston has another distinguishing characteristic. It is his entrepreneurial spirit that sets him even further apart.
A few years ago, Johnston began uploading lessons to YouTube for students to have access to new material while he was touring. The videos quickly racked up thousands of views, and Johnston quickly realized that he could capitalize on this early online success.
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Flash forward to today, Mikeslessons.com is one of the most successful online teaching websites for music. The platform makes it easy for students to learn, giving them the ability to access lessons through any device. In addition to the more than 150 videos on the site, live lessons are offered six times throughout the week. His YouTube channel has now garnered nearly 8 million views, and Mikeslessons.com has attracted thousands of subscribers, continuing to grow every month.
Join us at Big Kansas City in October to hear more of Mike Johnston’s story. (Ahem: Rumor has it he might be bringing his drums). See below for a sampling of what he can do, and help us welcome Mike on Twitter at @mikeslessons.
Credits: Photo by Mike Smith
