Artist Spotlight: Mikey Lion

At the forefront of the Desert Hearts movement is Mikey Lion, a San Diego-based DJ and producer with a reputation for the bizarre. Lion has brought his unique, high-energy stage presence to such festivals as Lightning in a Bottle, Burning Man, and Coachella. He’s earned the support of Claude VonStroke, Jamie Jones, and Green Velvet, to name a few, all while developing an idiosyncratic sound to complement his signature top hat. It’s hard to miss Mikey Lion.

Lion’s creations are generally of the House and Techno variations, often paired with tribal, hip-hop, and psychedelic elements. He got his start around age 13, thanks to inspiration from the great Wu-Tang Clan and Daft Punk. He first experimented with hip-hop but transitioned into House after witnessing Daft Punk live at Coachella at age 17. He joined forces with his brother Porkchop, as well as other musical friends to form The Desert Hearts Crew, which ultimately evolved into a record label and movement devoted to celebrating life, love, and music. Desert Hearts has since achieved iconic status in the North American festival scene and at the center of this movement is Mikey Lion – an eclectic, goofy DJ with a huge heart and talent to match.

You can catch Mikey Lion alongside Ardalan at Shady Park in Tempe on March 18. Get your tickets here.

Connect with Mikey Lion: Facebook | Soundcloud