Musical Motivation: Mikey Votano

Australian music artist & performer Mikey Votano has released his first UK single ‘Shut Up & Dance’ - a uniquely clever cover of Walk The Moon’s hit, in a vintage style of 1950s rock 'n' roll, rockabilly & blues.

Mikey also writes his own original music but really wanted to make his own version of a classic pop song: ‘Shut Up and Dance’ was recorded in December 2019 and wasn’t intended as the first release. Mikey says “As the world began to change I wanted to do a little something that could bring together my community, who like many have lost jobs, are struggling with the lack of human connection, are suffering from increased mental health concerns and, most devastatingly, who have lost loved ones. A small reminder of times that were & those that will be again once the time is right.”

We caught up with him to find out what songs make him...



Smile

This Old Heart Of Mine (Is Weak For You) - The Isley Brothers

I’m pretty sure every Motown track makes me smile but this was the first song that popped in my head & it instantly brought an ear to ear smile so it’s a win for The Isley Brothers

Contemplate

S.O.B. - Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats

This tune also graces my party playlist, it’s a killer number by a kickass band. Beneath all those party vibes the track discusses some pretty tough issues like depression & alcoholism.

Cry

Georgia On My Mind - Ray Charles

This track isn’t necessarily sad but it was my grandfathers favourite song & he always requested I play it on the sax. He was a wonderful, kind, inspiring man & the song will forever remind me of him.

Laugh

Tutti Frutti - Little Richard

People complain songs on the radio today don’t make any sense. Well! This tune from yesterday makes even less. It’s a banger & its original pre recording lyrics will make you giggle. No spoilers, you’ll have to look that up yourself.

Want to work out

Work out? What’s that?

Reminisce

I Wanna Be Like You - The Jungle Book (Louie Prima)

Doesn’t everyone have a Disney song they reminisce about? Pretty sure our VHS of The Jungle Book was played so many times we had to bin it. Also Louie Prima! How good is he?

Relax

How Long - The James Hunter Six

This track, the groove & the man’s voice are too chilled & sexy not to lay back & enjoy. The lyrics may be about heart break but the opening guitar vibe makes me too happy to mind.

Feel Determined

The Wailer - The Fuzillis

It’s an instrumental rock ’n’ roll number with some whaling sax that drives super hard. I don’t know what it is about the groove but it makes me feel like 1960s Batman (Adam West) & I can accomplish anything.

Dance

Shut Up and Dance - Walk The Moon

Who, after a few drinks, doesn’t run to the dance floor as this track is played? For happy fun pop dancing good times this Walk The Moon track gets me every time. For fans of vintage rock ’n’ roll & those who fancy a little swing dance I hope my track makes you feel just as good.