Dancing King : Michael John Wagner from "Mania"

"They cracked the code. They know how it works and in terms of writing songs, they have a formula ...and all of their records and great music just lasts. And you know, those records are timeless. They live forever and people love them. So, you know, they cross generations and not going anywhere anytime soon."

Welcome Michael John Wagner:

We’re joined on the Starline by a singer-songwriter and actor. You’ve heard his work on “America’s Next Top Model” , “Friends with Benefits” and seen in “The Fourth Alice” He went from his extensive European and Summer tour to now touring with the number one ABBA tribute show “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” as Bjorn. We welcome Michael Wagner.

Michael, let’s go Beyond the Mic. In “Mania” you speak with a Swedish accent. How long did it take you to perfect that?

You’ve sang your own Alternative and R&B music, but now you’re back to the 70’s. Why is Abba music still loved so much even today?

“Mania” is full production with all the bells, whistles, costumes, lighting etc from one of ABBA’s biggest concerts. Which is your favorite song from the show?

How has this tour change the way you see ABBA?

The Rockin' 8:

Michael Wagner from “Mania: The ABBA Tribute” joins us Beyond the Mic for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. There is no Pressure.

1. Yes, No or Maybe: Have you ever counted how many sequins are in your outfit? Have you ever thought about it?

2. Best class at the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts School?

3. Go to order when you visit Primanti Bros at home?

4. Favorite theater you’ve visited so far on the road?

5. What’s your must have roadside truck stop snack?

6. First guitar you ever owned was what and do you still have it?

7. Biggest fish you ever caught was what and where?

8. Last Steelers game you went to see live was where and against who?

The Impossible Question:

What was the one piece of advice your late Pap John gave you when you started your musical journey?

The Back Half:

Best thing about your friend and “Mania” cohort Melissa Harding?

You’ve been on the road with your own tour. How is touring with “Mania” different?

What’s your routine from getting from one stage to the next?

Best Playstation game? Assassin Creed’s games

How has this tour changed the way you love music?

What’s the funniest story from the “Mania” tour so far?

Who inspires you on your musical path?

How has your parents and friends support your path?

What do you want people to take away from “Mania”?

One Big Question:

You’ve experienced wildfires, quakes and the joys and heartaches of music. What makes the joy of a fan connecting with you as you perform changed you?

You’ve seen him in a Cinemark movie preshow, now you can enjoy him in “Mania”!

The Wrap:

He was a ball boy for the Steelers, had a manager sell his 1st guitar and wants you to see “Mania: The ABBA Tribute”. Michael John Wagner, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.

And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.

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