Michael Scott Nelson

Michael began playing the drums at the age of 8.  His father didn’t allow much rock music in the house, so his earliest influences were big band/jazz drummers like Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Ed Schaunessy and others.  It wasn’t until his older brother brought home the first Van Halen album did he get his first taste of rock music.  That opened the door for his musical taste to develop.  He grew into more influences such as Alex Van Halen, Neil Peart, Tommy Aldridge and the like, and found his place!

Upon graduating high school in Ohio, he auditioned for a band in Atlanta Georgia, got the gig, and moved there at age 18.  A “Big Hair band” at the end of the “Big Hair era” he just missed getting signed to a record contract.  He toured with that band over the southeast and midwest for 4 years before returning to Cleveland.  Once back in “C” town, MSN was fortunate to play with some very talented singer/songwriters and was quickly sought after to be the studio drummer for many original recording projects.  In addition, he has played on several commercial jingles. 

Some of the Cleveland/Canton groups MSN has performed with are The Tony Lang Band, Alexis Antes (formerly of Odd Girl Out), Revolution Switch, 1988, and New Wave Nation. He was the touring drummer for the 2014 fall tour for “TUFF”, an 80’s Glam metal band.  He joined E5C4P3 A Journey  tribute band in 2016 until 2020. Hot Blooded The Foreigner tribute 2021 to 2023,  and In the Heartland, a tribute to the music of Michael Stanley 2023 to present. 

Michael is also involved with We Rock For Autism, an organization founded by Chris Wilson which creates awareness of Autism and promotes therapy through music. Michael was honored to be featured in the December 2014 issue of The Monthly Melody, a publication produced by We Rock For Autism. Along with an extensive interview, the article boasts several pictures with himself and his grandson playing drums.   Having an 11 year old grandson with Autism, Michael holds all forms of alternative Autism therapy near and dear to his heart.

In addition MSN is an NRA Firearms instructor, a licensed pilot , and an accomplished cook. He enjoys entertaining his followers on social media by cooking up his favorite dishes.