MiG Ayesa LIVE in New York - Part 1

I consider myself fortunate to have seen MiG Ayesa perform live many times since his popular days in We Will Rock You and on CBS-TV's Rockstar: INXS, but now MiG Ayesa has completely outdone himself. MiG pulled off a whirlwind week of performances in New York City and New Jersey, and this time left me speechless. Thank goodness blogs don't require speaking! I'll give you some insight into the adventure, and maybe you'll understand what makes MiG's fans count the days until MiG's next performance, video and album.

The first night began with MiG at The Australian, a hotspot at 20 W. 38th St. in New York City. The food was fabulous and the service even better. Matt and the rest of the team went out of their way to make our visit a special one. MiG was testing out a new keyboard, but the headset didn't detract from the performance in any way. MiG was his usual fun and friendly self, and hung out with us between sets. He asked if we had any requests and treated us to songs ranging from Piano Man to Buses and Trains, from Maybe I'm Amazed to Unchained Melody. I'm completely hooked on his original music, so was particularly fond of the beautiful message and imagery of One Sunset at a Time, the irresistible sweetness and vulnerability of Blown Away, and the heart-wrenching She Loved from his debut album. Some fun-loving patrons joined MiG to belt out You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin', which proved quite entertaining!

It's a guy thing - singing and dancing to You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'


What's MiG up to? That's one devilish grin!


Next stop on the Big Apple tour - Eight Mile Creek at 240 Mulberry St. A trip to New York wouldn't be complete without a night at Eight Mile Creek. Whether in high heels or flip flops, one feels comfortable and right at home at Eight Mile Creek. The food is fantastic, and the fun never ends. Andrew, Luke and Sarah deserve kudos for going above and beyond with their outstanding service.

MiG surprised us by jammin' with - as he called them - his merry band of men. What a talented group of musicians. MiG's voice is stunning without any music, and when he's backed by a first-rate band, it's out of this world. The incredible jam session set the crowd on fire, and many danced the night away. I marveled at the talent on display. In spite of seeing MiG sing on numerous occasions, I was thoroughly impressed by this side of him. It felt as though I was getting to discover something new and wonderful. MiG has got to be the best kept secret in New York. I can keep a secret, but this one should be shouted from the rooftop of the Empire State Building.

Having a laugh during the jam session


MiG in his element


Keyboard magic


The night flew by, but we could console ourselves knowing the next gig of the weekend was on the horizon. Stay tuned for Part 2 of MiG LIVE in New York - with more pictures and tales of the amazing weekend. Also check out some of our tweets from New York on Twitter (search for #migny).

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Kay
Team MiG Global

MiG Ayesa: The Man's Got Style

MiG Ayesa has style - and not just one style. There's the MiG Ayesa who rocked the lights out with his portrayal of Galileo in Ben Elton and Queen's We Will Rock You. There's also the MiG Ayesa who handled classic rock songs with energy and ease on the CBS reality show Rockstar: INXS. MiG Ayesa has the musical talent, creativity and stage presence to make just about any song sizzle. Rock and roll seems effortless for MiG, yet he surely packs a punch.

MiG rocking the house in We Will Rock You - photo by Donald Chin


MiG excels at these styles, yet there's another MiG Ayesa...the man who has a style all his own. You see it when you hear an original song from MiG's debut album. You also see it when you watch his "She Loved" video on YouTube or MTV Asia. You can't help but see it when you catch a live MiG performance.

When MiG Ayesa sings his heart out for an audience, he really does sing his heart out. There's so much of him in the words and notes. MiG shares it all with you. I marvel at how he can maintain a style that's so appealing and unique, and still create song after song that's fresh and intriguing. They're all so different, yet similar in style.

Expression - photo by Cammy D.


Perhaps MiG's style especially connects with others because there's a vulnerability about it. His voice is so true, so open, without being masked by loud music, boisterous back-up singers or gimmicks. He exposes every note for all to hear. As if that's not enough to embrace, MiG opens a window to his soul with lyrics and melodies that express his feelings about life and love. That kind of vulnerability is irresistible and lasting. I want to feel music, not only hear it. I also want to trust that an artist is genuine and sincere, and not simply "singing at" the audience. One can feel the difference. When the artist adds good humor and connects with those listening, it all comes together for a magic experience.

A Light Moment - photo by Kay


The MiG Ayesa we know, with his warmth and winning style, will be performing Thursday nights at Eight Mile Creek in Soho, New York City beginning February 12 at 7:30 p.m. It will be intimate, moving and memorable. There isn't a better type of venue to experience all MiG Ayesa's style has to give. It will be just you, MiG, and the music. If you're ready for a great voice and sensational music that makes you feel something, don't miss it. You may meet some new friends there from Team MiG who traveled from throughout the U.S. and Canada, because we can't bear to miss out on too many chances to see MiG and enjoy his very special style. I think after you see MiG Ayesa, you'll feel the same.

Keep the light shining,

Team MiG

MiG Ayesa: More Than Words

The list of artists I want to see perform at least once is a long one, but the list of artists I want to see perform every chance I get is short. It's no surprise the name that tops the list of those I want to see often is MiG Ayesa. So what is it about MiG Ayesa's performances that keep him at such lofty heights on the list? And what is it about MiG Ayesa's personality that makes his gigs something you never want to miss?

One of the best ways to explain may be to give an example. A few days ago, MiG did a short set in Bergenfield, New Jersey with Hotdog Band. A number of people from Team MiG went to the gig...some even traveling from other states. They had a fabulous time - because of MiG's performance and personality. MiG sang mostly his original songs, including She Loved, One Sunset at a Time, Blown Away and I Need You Here, which thrilled the Team MiG crew. MiG's originals have a combination of meaningful lyrics and creative melodies, and he delivered every song with such emotion and feeling. MiG also delighted the crowd when he teamed up with Kim Bargamento to sing More Than Words. You can see a video of their duet on Team MiG Global's YouTube Channel.

Sound Check with MiG Ayesa (photo by Donna)


MiG at the Mic (photo by Wanda)


The music stopped the Team MiG crew in their tracks, but they were completely floored by how kind and down-to-earth MiG was. MiG's nature is truly his greatest strength. It's ironic that the more gentle he is, the more power he has to make a difference in others' lives. MiG has always taken time to talk with people, sign autographs and pose with them for pictures. In fact, he sometimes checks the picture to make sure it turned out and will be a nice memento! The Team MiG contingent chatted and joked with MiG, and took photos throughout the evening.

MiG Ayesa Singing His Heart Out (photo by Donna)



MiG Ayesa Lighting Up the Room (photo by Wanda)


By the time the evening ended, they were already talking about the next performance. They looked forward to another gig, and to spending time with someone they genuinely care about. And you can bet MiG will be the same next time. It's rare to have a connection between an artist and his fans that's so special and lasting. Maybe it's because fans have a deep admiration, respect and love for someone who sincerely returns those sentiments. It has to be more than words.

Keep the light shining and pass it on,

Team MiG