A native of Rochester, NY, currently living in Nashville, TN – guitarist/vocalist Michael Staertow brings a pedigree that includes many years as lead guitarist and musical director with original Foreigner vocalist, and solo artist Lou Gramm, guitarist with multi-platinum artist Slaughter, as well as both RockStar counselor and Music Director of the prestigious Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp organization.

In addition to playing venues around the world, Michael has performed with Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne, Dio, Whitesnake), Paul Stanley (KISS), Gene Cornish (The Rascals), Buddy Guy, Carmine and Vinny Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Black Sabbath), Nancy Wilson (Heart), Rich Redmond (Jason Aldean) and original Foreigner drummer Dennis Elliott. He also shared the stage with legendary Bad Company vocalist Paul Rodgers and former Heart guitarist Howard Leese at the “Pandora Unforgettable Moments on Ice” show, which was broadcast worldwide on ABC-TV and On Demand.

Michael has also been the focus of articles in Guitar World, Guitar One and Vintage Guitar Magazine, as well as a featured guest on several podcasts including Guitar Player Magazine‘s “No Guitar Is Safe” hosted by GP’s Jude Gold.

In 2021, Michael accepted an offer to join The Guess Who, presenting an exciting opportunity to musically represent this legendary Canadian Music Hall of Fame artist.