We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, how do you think about risk?
One aspect to work that people overlook is the TIME investment involved. At many points in my career I’ve been asked to do pro-bono work, and although many people would likely turn down these requests (experience doesn’t put food on the table), I’ve been keen to take such endeavors. One risks being forced to turn away paid work and wasting time yet the majority of the time I’ve been rewarded with better gigs and opportunities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Although some people might view this as a hindrance, I believe my value on self care and time off has given me the rest needed to be on top of my A game at all of the shows I work… On Mondays and Tuesday I try very hard to not take any work and use the opportunity to recoup and enjoy the “weekend”. Unfortunately because I’ve been one of the younger people in the industry I am frequently looked at as the new guy or that I’m green. I don’t claim to know it all, but it’s still discouraging to be at the short end of agism and assumptions. Over time I’ve learned to turn my gaze straight ahead and approach each task like I’ve done it before, or FAKE IT TIL YOU MAKE IT. More often than not people mistake confidence for competence.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I actually keep a list in my notes of every notable spot in every city I’ve visited. My DFW list is the longest since I’ve been here 7 years now. One of my favorite area for non locals is Deep Ellum… there’s something for everyone there. Great bars, excellent food, a million music venues and even some candy stores. Specifically, often I tell people to start breakfast at Shugg’s Bagels near SMU, followed by a late lunch or even brunch at Sundown at Granada.. Sundown is a farm to table restaurant that specialized in vegan/vegetarian plates friendly to all appetites. For excellent views and impressive drinks you HAVE to check out Kessaku… being on the 50th floor of The National Hotel you’ll be stunned at the views available from the floor ceiling to floor windows.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One of the biggest kick starts to my career was Troy Bruner. Troy, who is a drum/production prodigy, was one of the first people to see my ambitions and allow me do some work with his band, Little Image. In 2017 he asked me to jump on the road as their front of house engineer and tour manager. Although the roll didn’t pay anything, it got me plugged in with local venue Trees (we played our Dallas show there), and eventually would put my work in front of audience members that would connect me with bigger artists (Colony House).

Website: www.MichaelKeithLewis.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelkeithlewis/

Image Credits
Brandon Smith Austin Schnider

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.