Michael Houser

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Michael Houser (January 6, 1962 - August 10, 2002) was the lead guitarist of the band Widespread Panic.

Born in Boone, North Carolina, Houser became a founding member of Widespread Panic in 1982 while attending the University of Georgia with John Bell. His distinctive playing style was featured on the band's first seven studio albums and is responsible for the band's moniker: "an honest tune with a lingering lead". Panic's large lineup released Houser from rhythm guitar duties, and allowed him to play lead melodies that lingered behind the dominant vocal melodies. Houser's nickname of "Panic" (earned due to his once-frequent panic attacks) became the basis for the band's name. Because of back problems, Mike played seated, using two foot pedals, often simultaneously. Many consider him a master of the volume pedal for his skilled incorporation of its use in conjunction with the other members of Panic.

Houser played a discontinued guitar called a Fender Telecaster Plus Deluxe. He had two guitars he favored, a 1992 model, and a 1993 model, both with the 2 color sunburst fade.

Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the spring of 2002, he died later that year at the age of 40. A solo album of his instrumentals entitled "Door Harp" was released after his death, and was followed by "Sandbox" in 2006. He is survived by his wife Barbette, two children (Waker and Eva), and many loving fans.

George McConnell, a Widespread family friend, replaced Mikey for two studio albums, Ball (2003), and Earth to America (2006), and Jimmy Herring from ARU/The Dead is currently on board, filling the seat of the lingering lead.

[edit] External links

• Houser Tribute Website - Tribute site celebrating the life of Mikey Houser
• Michael Houser Music Fund - Local based charity to benefit Athens Academy. Through this fund the school will be able to provide children with the opportunities to discover the richness and wonder of music that so enriched Michael's own life