Few songwriters capture the quiet turning points of life quite like Rocky Michaels. With his latest single 'Going Going Gone', the Danville-based Americana artist delivers a soul-stirring meditation on release, resilience, and the liberating moment we stop looking backward and start moving on. Rooted in warm acoustic textures and carried by Michaels’ understated but emotionally resonant vocal delivery, the track is a gentle anthem for letting go and trusting what lies ahead.
As the final single from his upcoming fourth album 'Heroes', 'Going Going Gone' reflects a creative voice that continues to grow in clarity and conviction. A respected storyteller and Voting Member of the Recording Academy, Michaels blends classic Americana tones with a contemporary indie-folk sensibility, drawing comparisons to Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, and Zac Brown Band, but always with a perspective that is distinctly his own.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My parents signed me up for piano lessons when I was 5 years old, so I’d say that was my first meaningful exposure into music and instruments.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I recall enjoying a wide variety - such as Billy Joel, The Eagles, Boston, James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel, the Rolling Stones, to name just a few. In hindsight, I think I was drawn to the emotional connection of the songs. I also seemed to gravitate toward piano-based rock songs, since the piano was the instrument I interacted with.
What was the first album you remember owning?
My first album was STYX - The Grand Illusion! Wow, what a flashback!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
After a near-death health scare in 2001, I went through a long recovery that reshaped how I see life. Not long after, Tim McGraw released “Live Like You Were Dying,” and I connected with it instantly. The message hit home in a profound way, and it’s been my personal mantra ever since.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I can’t just sit down and block off time to write. Rather, I’m an open book, 24/7 and never really know when inspiration may strike. Therefore, I have a stockpile of song ideas and fragments on my mobile phone for when that moment arises.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I love listening to Zac Brown, Dan + Shay, John Mayer, and Ed Sheeran among so many others. However, I’ll take a great song over a particular artist if the song moves me.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I’d love to open for Tim McGraw for his cool, dude vibe. I also think my music would be a good, compatible fit for other artists like Dan + Shay, Zac Brown, Sheryl Crow and even The Eagles if they’re still touring.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part for me is the connection with the audience. Whether it’s a knowing nod during a live performance or a comment from someone who felt seen by a lyric, those moments of genuine engagement mean everything. That kind of connection is the greatest reward I could ever receive.
And what is the most frustrating part?
As a solo artist, I wear every hat—songwriter, booking agent, social media director, composer, and more. There are times when it feels impossible to give every role the attention it deserves. Still, I keep it in perspective. I’m my own boss, I shape the entire Rocky Michaels experience, and I have full control over my creative direction and destiny.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be authentic. Learn from other artists, but don’t try to imitate them—they already exist. The world doesn’t need another version of someone else; it needs you. You’re one of one. So step into that truth and let people see who you really are.
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Rocky Michaels' new single 'Going Going Gone' is out now. Watch the video in the player below.