E
veryone has that place they go to relax and feel better--be it outside, the gym or your
favorite bar, we all have that favorite place. One of my favorite places to go and hang out
“where everyone knows my name” is the GLENVIEW PUB & GRILL in Chelmsford, MA.
This is where I met MIKE GACEK--on his guitar--singing and sending out some amazing energy
to the folks at the bar. Over the years (maybe 6 or so), I got to know Mike through his music—and
his music became a big part of helping me sort through some things in life.
I have heard quite a few singer/songwriters in my life and each one of them bring something to
the table--be it sound, talent with the instrument, lyrics or presentation, they all have
“something”. Mike brings something special through his lyrics- passion, and feeling. I see Mike
all the time--either solo, or with one his many talented friends (many who are also named
“Mike”). I asked Mike if he would be interested in speaking with me--not just me about his
journey, but to share it with the ION readers. He did not hesitate…not that I would have let him
anyway.
We do not live too far away from each other, so Mike stopped by for a “deeper dive”. We sat at my
kitchen table and I sipped my Baileys and coffee, while he told me his own story…and his story
about his music.
Mike is a true storyteller. After that, we took a drive into Boston for lunch, and of course, some
pictures for this piece. Mike’s passion for music could be rivaled by his love for sports--Boston
sports. But that is another story for another day.