Drummer Mike Graci has built his career around one constant: playing live.

His path started at age 12 when a friend’s older brother introduced him to a drum set. Mike immediately knew what he wanted to do. He began taking lessons, studied for more than a decade and was performing in bands by age 16.

At 19, Mike began teaching drums while continuing to perform. He later attended Long Island University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and helping pay his way through school by playing shows and giving lessons. His teaching career included work with Long Island Drum Center and Farmingdale Music Center.

Decades later, that work ethic has never changed. Mike has averaged more than 100 performances per year throughout much of his adult life. After moving with his family to Charlotte, NC, he spent five years playing percussion for the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats.

Following that experience, Mike turned his attention toward the growing tribute-band scene. He founded Chicago Rewired and later expanded into additional projects with musicians from that lineup. REO Survivor brings together five members of Chicago Rewired for a show celebrating the arena-rock sound and timeless songs of REO Speedwagon and Survivor. For Mike, it is another extension of a career built on recreating great music with musicians who know how to deliver it live.