Pain Waves was born when vocalist and producer Michael Wagner needed to free himself from a guardianship and conservator ship. With lyrics that out his abusers and synths that pop, Pain Waves displays a focused and mature nature through putting traditional pop and folk songwriting in a blender – with emo and indie tendencies.
Where are you based?
Denver, CO
How long have you been making music?
3
What genre would you consider your music to be?
At the moment I’d say I’m in the Alternative Folk genre
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I needed my freedom back and I was losing in court. My lawyer wasn’t allowing me to do anything to get out of it. I couldn’t schedule a hearing and I had been threatened by my dad into silence. Music was my only outlet.
What are your biggest musical influences?
At the moment, I’d say Smallpools, Riley, K.Flay, Circa Survive and Chvrches
Are you signed to a label or are you an independent artist?
I’m independent
What have been the biggest challenges in your music career?
I’d say that making songs about child abuse but staying relatable.
How many songs or albums have you released to date?
1 – ‘4 Days’
Can you tell us a few things about your latest release?
It was originally released under my old moniker “Letters To Her.” The title is in reference to the 4 days which my parents abducted and tortured me in my dad’s house in Wisconsin. I moved away within 18 months and found safety in Denver, where I started making music.
Any plans for new music or upcoming projects we should know about?
Not at the moment 😉
