As the old Nashville adage goes… Michael Krejci (“Kret-see”) drove 850 miles to Music City in an old pickup truck, with a college degree and a dream. He arrived feeling the utmost sense of excitement and eagerness… and nearly nine years later, his passion to create music is as strong as ever. Now, with two full-length albums under his belt, a well-honed stage show, and a plethora of original material, Krejci is proud to consider himself a seasoned singer-songwriter among Nashville’s ever-budding music community.
Born in Chicago and having grown up in Zionsville, Indiana, Krejci’s small town upbringing is transparent in his lyrics. He writes introspective songs with poignant content and memorable melodies. His music tugs at your heartstrings, often referencing the very essence of country music: love, loss, and everything in between.
Influenced by the likes of early Alan Jackson and Garth Brooks, to Hank Jr., Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard (on the country front), combined with songwriter legends such as John Fogerty, James Taylor and The Beatles (on the rock front)… Michael Krejci’s music is best described as “acoustic country with an Americana edge.” He sings like he has something to say, something to get off his chest… something you need to hear. It’s no coincidence his honest delivery and charismatic vocals have been compared to some of his favorite singers: Bruce Robison, Radney Foster and Lyle Lovett.
Krejci’s critically-acclaimed debut solo effort, Out of the Blue (January 2007) is a blend of country, folk, bluegrass and roots styles. Simply put, it’s is a tasteful mix of tunes that sifts through the ups and downs of everyday life, all the while respectfully transcending multiple genres. Such mass appeal is evident by the diverse cast of musicians chosen to contribute to the project, including guest appearances by guitar slinger, Eric Heatherly (Flowers on the Wall), and The Infamous Stringdusters’ Jeremy Garrett and Andy Hall, among others. Ten of the eleven tracks are original songs (the lone cover is a unique bluegrass arrangement of Travis Tritt and Jill Colucci’s country hit, “Anymore,”), and there is indeed something for everyone on Out of the Blue.
Disc Makers, the nations leading CD/DVD duplication company, chose the project to grace the cover of their June catalog, reaching millions of consumers and music fans alike!
In July of 2010, Michael teamed up with duet partner, Becca Hadzor, to independently record and release their highly anticipated debut, Lovesick, already selling over 1,000 physical copies. The full-length, ten song project features all-new original music including seven tracks written or co-written by Michael; this time, reflecting upon a new found spirit of love, and loss. The poignant lyrics examine the delicacy of relationships, whether it’s a girlfriend and boyfriend, husband and wife, or father and son. A powerful example is “Get Through,” the imagery-laden, lead-off radio single focusing on the trials and tribulations of everyday life overcome by the bond of human relationships.
Female lead vocals shine on “Love Again,” a remorseful Alison Krauss-like gem written by Michael and fellow Nashville artist Sara Kelley, as well as a countrified version of alt-country guitar slinger, Tim Carroll’s “If I Could,” featuring guest fiddle/mandolin player, Andy Leftwich (Ricky Skaggs/Kentucky Thunder). The duo also honors the late Eddie Rabbitt with an authentic interpretation of his hit classic, “Drivin My Life Away,” along with a song that has always been a fan-favorite, “Wagon Wheel,” popularized by The Old Crow Medicine Show (with choruses originally penned by Bob Dylan and verses later expanded upon by OCMS’s Ketch Secor).
While Lovesick reflects the more Americana side of country music, “Love Out of Left Field” surfaces as the most commercial-sounding track, easily imagined on more contemporary radio or even over the loudspeakers at a ballgame. Michael’s lyrics draw on descriptive comparisons and anecdotal metaphors, not to mention a dose of his favorite past time (baseball), to get his point across.
If there’s an early fan-favorite on the album, it’s “Love of My Life,” a touching ode documenting a couple’s long-distance correspondence and hopeful yearning.
“It’s twelve o’clock where I am, it’s seven where you lay. You’re probably just waking up, I’m hittin’ the hay. Driftin’ off to dream and hoping that you’re there, maybe we’ll meet in Venice at St. Mark’s Square”
Lovesick brings to life the reality of love and the transparency of two characters, all the while portraying an open minded, musical spirit. Whether you call it “Americana,” “Country,” or “Folk-Rock,” it’s just good music. It’s melodic, it’s passionate, it’s lyrical, and it’s well-produced.
Distinguished Nashville Recording Engineer, Marc Lacuesta (Kenny Rogers, Jim Lauderdale), discerns that “cutting through all the bells and whistles of the one hit wonders that march in and out of the factories on Seventeenth Avenue, Michael and Becca have crafted a great album, a straightforward yet graceful debut with unique songs and honest voices that honor the legendary country icons that preceded them.”
With a knack for songwriting, a love for harmony, and a genuine appreciation for storytelling, Michael Krejci continues to carve out his own path in today’s ever-challenging musical landscape. Whether he’s performing solo-acoustic, as an acoustic-duo or backed by a full band, be sure to stop and take a listen. You’ll be glad you did.