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{{Not to be confused|Mikey Day}}
{{short description|American bassist (born 1980)}}
{{short description|American musician (born 1980)}}
{{pp-semi|small=yes}}
{{pp-semi|small=yes}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Mikey Way
| name = Mikey Way
| image = Mikey Way East Scene.jpg
| image = Mikey Way East Scene.jpg
| caption = Way performing in 2011
| caption = Way performing in 2011 on his signature [[Fender Mustang Bass]]
| birth_name = Michael James Way
| background = non_vocal_instrumentalist
| alias =
| birth_name = Michael James Way
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1980|9|10}}
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1980|9|10}}
| birth_place = [[Newark, New Jersey]], U.S.
| birth_place = [[Newark, New Jersey]], U.S.
| occupation = Musician
| origin = [[Belleville, New Jersey]], U.S.
| years_active = 2001–present
| alias = The Kobra Kid
| spouse = {{ubl|
| instrument = Bass guitar
⚫
| genre = {{flatlist|
* {{marriage|Alicia Simmons|2007|2013|end=divorced}}
* {{marriage|Kristin Blanford|2016}}
}}
| relatives = {{plainlist|
* [[Gerard Way]] (brother)
* [[Joe Rogan]] (first cousin once removed)
}}
| module = {{Infobox musical artist
| embed = yes
| origin = [[Belleville, New Jersey]], U.S.
| instrument = Bass guitar
⚫
| genre = {{flatlist|
* [[Alternative rock]]
* [[Alternative rock]]
* [[emo]]
* [[emo]]
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* [[electropop]]
* [[electropop]]
}}
}}
| occupation = Musician, songwriter
⚫
| current_member_of = {{flatlist|
| years_active = 2001–present
⚫
| current_member_of = {{flatlist|
* [[My Chemical Romance]]
* [[My Chemical Romance]]
* {{nowrap|Electric Century}}
* {{nowrap|Electric Century}}
}}
}}
| website =
| website =
}}
}}
}}


'''Michael James Way''' (born September 10, 1980)<ref name="Mikey Way Bio">{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mikey-way-mn0001908406|title=Mikey Way Bio|website=[[AllMusic]]}}</ref> is an American musician, best known as the bassist of the rock band [[My Chemical Romance]].<ref name="Mikey Way Bio"/> He is also the multi-instrumentalist and backing vocalist of rock duo Electric Century.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Maria|last=Sherman|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7808534/electric-century-mikey-way-david-debiak-interview-my-chemical-romance|title=David Debiak & My Chemical Romance's Mikey Way Talk New Project, Electric Century, & Overcoming Addiction|magazine=Billboard|date=May 24, 2017|access-date=August 28, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Cassie|last=Whitt|url=http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/mikey_way_addiction_rehab_treatment_my_chemical_romance_electric_century|title="I fell into total darkness." —Mikey Way (Electric Century, My Chemical Romance) on addiction, rehab|publisher=altpress|date=November 25, 2014|access-date=August 28, 2017}}</ref>
'''Michael James Way''' (born September 10, 1980)<ref name="Mikey Way Bio">{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mikey-way-mn0001908406|title=Mikey Way Bio|website=[[AllMusic]]}}</ref> is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the bassist of the rock band [[My Chemical Romance]].<ref name="Mikey Way Bio"/> He also serves as the multi-instrumentalist and backing vocalist of rock duo Electric Century.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Maria|last=Sherman|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7808534/electric-century-mikey-way-david-debiak-interview-my-chemical-romance|title=David Debiak & My Chemical Romance's Mikey Way Talk New Project, Electric Century, & Overcoming Addiction|magazine=Billboard|date=May 24, 2017|access-date=August 28, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Cassie|last=Whitt|url=http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/mikey_way_addiction_rehab_treatment_my_chemical_romance_electric_century|title="I fell into total darkness." —Mikey Way (Electric Century, My Chemical Romance) on addiction, rehab|publisher=altpress|date=November 25, 2014|access-date=August 28, 2017}}</ref> Way co-wrote ''Collapser'' with [[Shaun Simon]]; it was released in July 2019 on [[DC Comics]].
Way co-wrote ''Collapser'' with [[Shaun Simon]], which was released July 2019 on [[DC Comics]].


== Early life ==
== Early life ==
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=== My Chemical Romance ===
=== My Chemical Romance ===
{{Main|My Chemical Romance}}
{{Main|My Chemical Romance}}
Way joined American rock band [[My Chemical Romance]] in 2001 as their bassist and suggested the band's name after he read the book ''[[Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kerrang.com/8181/11-things-didnt-know-chemical-romance/|title=11 Things You Didn't know about My Chemical Romance|work=Kerrang!}}</ref> When Way joined the band, he had to improve his bass skills in less than a week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.musicradar.com/us/news/bass/mikey-way-talks-bass-heroes-bowie-moments-and-his-signature-squier-571416|title=Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier|author=Matthew Parker|work=musicradar.com}}</ref> My Chemical Romance released their second album ''[[Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge]]'' on June 8, 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/three-cheers-for-sweet-revenge-mw0000738265|title=Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Johnny Loftus|work=AllMusic}}</ref> My Chemical Romance's third album, ''[[The Black Parade]]'', was released on October 24, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-black-parade-mw0000563300|title=The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Stephen Thomas Erlewine|work=AllMusic}}</ref> My Chemical Romance released their fourth and final studio album, ''[[Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys]]'', on November 22, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/danger-days-the-true-lives-of-the-fabulous-killjoys-mw0002057761|title=Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Stephen Thomas Erlewine|work=AllMusic}}</ref> The band announced their breakup on March 22, 2013.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/my-chemical-romance-break-up-20130323|title=My Chemical Romance Break Up|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=March 23, 2013}}</ref>
Way joined American rock band [[My Chemical Romance]] in 2001 as their bassist and suggested the band's name after he read the book ''[[Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kerrang.com/8181/11-things-didnt-know-chemical-romance/|title=11 Things You Didn't know about My Chemical Romance|work=Kerrang!}}</ref> When Way joined the band, he had to improve his bass skills in less than a week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.musicradar.com/us/news/bass/mikey-way-talks-bass-heroes-bowie-moments-and-his-signature-squier-571416|title=Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier|author=Matthew Parker|work=musicradar.com}}</ref> My Chemical Romance released their second album ''[[Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge]]'' on June 8, 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/three-cheers-for-sweet-revenge-mw0000738265|title=Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Johnny Loftus|work=AllMusic}}</ref> My Chemical Romance's third album, ''[[The Black Parade]]'', was released on October 24, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-black-parade-mw0000563300|title=The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Stephen Thomas Erlewine|work=AllMusic}}</ref> My Chemical Romance released their fourth and final studio album, ''[[Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys]]'', on November 22, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/danger-days-the-true-lives-of-the-fabulous-killjoys-mw0002057761|title=Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic|author=Stephen Thomas Erlewine|work=AllMusic}}</ref> While touring for the album, Way collaborated with [[Squier]] to release a signature Mikey Way [[Fender Mustang Bass]].<ref>{{cite web|title=MIKEY WAY MUSTANG® BASS|url=http://www.fender.com/squier/basses/mustang/mikey-way-mustang-bass/0301082517.html|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> In an interview with ''[[MusicRadar]]'', Way commented on his signature bass: "I had been sponsored by Fender through most of my time in MCR. I had contacted them about making a custom bass and they hit me back saying they wanted to give me a signature model".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Parker|first1=Matthew|title=Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier|date=February 28, 2013|url=http://www.musicradar.com/news/bass/mikey-way-talks-bass-heroes-bowie-moments-and-his-signature-squier-571416|publisher=[[MusicRadar]]|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> The band announced their breakup on March 22, 2013.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/my-chemical-romance-break-up-20130323|title=My Chemical Romance Break Up|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=March 23, 2013}}</ref>


On October 31, 2019, My Chemical Romance announced they would be reuniting with a date in [[Los Angeles]] on December 20 and a new merchandise line.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/B4SyPJKBvAr/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/B4SyPJKBvAr |archive-date=2021-12-23 |url-access=subscription|title=Like Phantoms Forever... Tickets on Sale Friday 11/1/19 at 12:00 PM Pacific|via=[[Instagram]]|access-date=October 31, 2019}}{{cbignore}} </ref> They later announced a 2020 North American tour, as well as dates in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. The tour was later postponed to 2023 due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/my-chemical-romance-reschedule-us-reunion-tour-for-2021-2689583|title=Check Out My Chemical Romance's Rescheduled US Tour Dates for 2021|date=June 16, 2020|via=[[NME]]|access-date=July 14, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Campbell|first=Rachel|date=2021-04-16|title=My Chemical Romance reschedule tour dates for 2022|url=https://www.altpress.com/news/my-chemical-romance-rescheduled-tour-dates-2022/|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Alternative Press|language=en-US}}</ref>
On October 31, 2019, My Chemical Romance announced they would be reuniting with a date in [[Los Angeles]] on December 20 and a new merchandise line.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/B4SyPJKBvAr/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/B4SyPJKBvAr |archive-date=2021-12-23 |url-access=subscription|title=Like Phantoms Forever... Tickets on Sale Friday 11/1/19 at 12:00 PM Pacific|via=[[Instagram]]|access-date=October 31, 2019}}{{cbignore}} </ref> They later announced a 2020 North American tour, as well as dates in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. The tour was later postponed to 2022 due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/my-chemical-romance-reschedule-us-reunion-tour-for-2021-2689583|title=Check Out My Chemical Romance's Rescheduled US Tour Dates for 2021|date=June 16, 2020|via=[[NME]]|access-date=July 14, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Campbell|first=Rachel|date=2021-04-16|title=My Chemical Romance reschedule tour dates for 2022|url=https://www.altpress.com/news/my-chemical-romance-rescheduled-tour-dates-2022/|access-date=2021-06-11|website=Alternative Press|language=en-US}}</ref>


=== Electric Century ===
=== Electric Century ===
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=== Other musical collaborations ===
=== Other musical collaborations ===
In November 2015, Way was featured in [[Good Charlotte]]'s music video for their first single since their hiatus, "Makeshift Love".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hingle|first1=James|title=The New Good Charlotte Music Video Features Mikey Way|url=http://www.kerrang.com/37841/the-new-good-charlotte-video-features-mikey-way/|website=Kerrang.com|publisher=Kerrang!|access-date=13 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151113165959/http://www.kerrang.com/37841/the-new-good-charlotte-video-features-mikey-way/|archive-date=November 13, 2015 |date=13 November 2015}}</ref> He also contributed to Andy Black's debut solo album ''[[The Shadow Side]]'', a pseudonym project from [[Black Veil Brides]] frontman [[Andy Biersack]].<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Biddulph|first1=Andy|title=MIKEY WAY IS ON THE ANDY BLACK ALBUM|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/mikey-way-is-on-the-andy-black-album|magazine=RockSound|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Hingle|first1=James|title=ANDY BIERSACK JOINED BY MIKEY WAY IN THE STUDIO|url=http://www.kerrang.com/37932/andy-biersack-joined-by-mikey-way-in-the-studio/|magazine=[[Kerrang!]]|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> Way recorded bass for American pop punk band [[Waterparks (band)|Waterparks]] on their ''Cluster'' EP,<ref>{{cite magazine|title=5 things you should know about Waterparks before they get big|url=http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/5_things_you_should_know_about_waterparks|magazine=[[Alternative Press (music magazine)|Alternative Press]]|access-date=26 October 2016}}</ref> and later joined them on tour with Good Charlotte, including performances at [[Reading and Leeds festivals]].<ref>{{cite magazine|title=See Waterparks + Mikey Way Play Reading and Leeds Festival|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/photos/view/see-waterparks-mikey-way-play-reading-festival|magazine=[[Rock Sound]]|access-date=26 October 2016}}</ref> Way was also a special guest DJ at Emo Nite LA's 1st-year anniversary.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Spanos |first1=Brittany |author-link=Brittany Spanos |title=Mark Hoppus, Chris Carrabba on How Emo Night Vindicated the Scene |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/features/mark-hoppus-chris-carrabba-on-how-emo-night-vindicated-the-scene-20151123 |access-date=26 June 2018 |magazine=Rolling Stone}}</ref>
In November 2015, Way was featured in [[Good Charlotte]]'s music video for their first single since their hiatus, "Makeshift Love".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hingle|first1=James|title=The New Good Charlotte Music Video Features Mikey Way|url=http://www.kerrang.com/37841/the-new-good-charlotte-video-features-mikey-way/|website=Kerrang.com|publisher=Kerrang!|access-date=13 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151113165959/http://www.kerrang.com/37841/the-new-good-charlotte-video-features-mikey-way/|archive-date=November 13, 2015 |date=13 November 2015}}</ref> He also contributed to Andy Black's debut solo album ''[[The Shadow Side]]'', a pseudonym project from [[Black Veil Brides]] frontman [[Andy Biersack]].<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Biddulph|first1=Andy|title=MIKEY WAY IS ON THE ANDY BLACK ALBUM|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/news/read/mikey-way-is-on-the-andy-black-album|magazine=RockSound|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Hingle|first1=James|title=ANDY BIERSACK JOINED BY MIKEY WAY IN THE STUDIO|url=http://www.kerrang.com/37932/andy-biersack-joined-by-mikey-way-in-the-studio/|magazine=[[Kerrang!]]|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> Way recorded bass for American pop punk band [[Waterparks (band)|Waterparks]] on their ''Cluster'' EP,<ref>{{cite magazine|title=5 things you should know about Waterparks before they get big|url=http://www.altpress.com/features/entry/5_things_you_should_know_about_waterparks|magazine=[[Alternative Press (music magazine)|Alternative Press]]|access-date=26 October 2016}}</ref> and later joined them on tour with Good Charlotte, including performances at [[Reading and Leeds festivals]].<ref>{{cite magazine|title=See Waterparks + Mikey Way Play Reading and Leeds Festival|url=http://www.rocksound.tv/photos/view/see-waterparks-mikey-way-play-reading-festival|magazine=[[Rock Sound]]|access-date=26 October 2016}}</ref> Way was also a special guest DJ at Emo Nite LA's 1st-year anniversary.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Spanos |first1=Brittany |title=Mark Hoppus, Chris Carrabba on How Emo Night Vindicated the Scene |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/features/mark-hoppus-chris-carrabba-on-how-emo-night-vindicated-the-scene-20151123 |access-date=26 June 2018 |magazine=Rolling Stone}}</ref>

==Equipment==

Way is known for using Fender 4 string bass guitars.

Starting in 2002, Way used a 2001 silver sparkle Fender American Designer Precision Bass, which is seen in the music video for ‘Vampires Will Never Hurt You’, however this bass was destroyed in transport around 2003.

For My Chemical Romance’s next album, [[Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge]] (2004), Way used both a Candy Apple Red Fender American Standard Precision Bass, and a black Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, which he used on the next album also.

In My Chemical Romance's [[The Black Parade]] (2006) recording and supporting tours, Way was known for using a black Deluxe [[Fender Jaguar Bass|Jaguar Bass]], his previously used black [[Geddy Lee]] [[Fender Jazz Bass|Jazz Bass]] and a Blizzard Pearl [[Fender (company)|Fender]] [[Fender Precision Bass|American Standard Precision Bass]].

On [[The World Contamination Tour]] in support of [[Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys]], he used his own signature Squier Mustang Bass, along with a red Pawn Shop Series [[Fender Mustang Bass]], used as the tours ‘E Flat guitar’.

When My Chemical Romance reunited in 2019, Way, along with guitarist [[Frank Iero]], received new [[Fender Custom Shop]] instruments, with Way unveiling two identically specced Fender Jazz Basses, with the exception of the finishes, one being in Gloss Silver Sparkle, the other in Gloss Black Flake. The basses featured vintage 70’s style hardware, and heavily black accented maple fretboards. This specification of bass went on to be used for Way’s 2023 Fender signature model, however only available in Gloss Silver Sparkle, largely due to the fact the Black Flake Sparkle example being rarely used live.

Since 2019, Way, along with guitarists [[Ray Toro]] and [[Frank Iero]], has used half step down tuning (D#G#C#F), to cater to Way's brother, vocalist [[Gerard Way|Gerard]]'s deepened voice.

As of March 2023, Way was using a Fender Super Bassman Amplifier through 2 Fender Bassman 810 cabs when touring Australia, New Zealand and Japan as shown on his instagram.

===Squier Mikey Way Mustang Bass===
{{Infobox Guitar model|title=Mikey Way Mustang Bass
|image=
|bgcolor=#FFFFFF
|manufacturer=[[Squier]] ([[Fender Musical Instruments Corporation|Fender]])
|period=2011-2015
|bodytype=Solid
|necktype=[[Bolt-on]]
|scale=30"
|woodbody=[[Alder]]
|woodneck=Maple, "C" Shape,(Satin Finish)
|woodfingerboard= [[rosewood]]
|bridge=Strings-Thru-Body with 4 Individually Adjustable Saddles
|pickups=Custom, [[EMG, Inc.|EMG 35Hz]] ([[Fender Custom Shop|Example]])
|colors=Large Flake Silver Sparkle
}}
While touring for the Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys, Way collaborated with [[Squier]] to release a Signature '''Mikey Way [[Fender Mustang Bass|Mustang Bass]]'''.<ref>{{cite web|title=MIKEY WAY MUSTANG® BASS|url=http://www.fender.com/squier/basses/mustang/mikey-way-mustang-bass/0301082517.html|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> In an interview with ''[[MusicRadar]]'', Way commented on his signature bass: "I had been sponsored by Fender through most of my time in MCR. I had contacted them about making a custom bass and they hit me back saying they wanted to give me a signature model".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Parker|first1=Matthew|title=Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier|date=February 28, 2013|url=http://www.musicradar.com/news/bass/mikey-way-talks-bass-heroes-bowie-moments-and-his-signature-squier-571416|publisher=[[MusicRadar]]|access-date=22 January 2016}}</ref> The guitar in question, The Fender Squier Mikey Way Mustang Bass, was a produced by [[Fender (company)|Fender]]'s [[Squier]] sub-brand from 2011 until 2015. Based on the Squier Mustang Bass, finished in Large Flake Silver Sparkle with a black competition stripe, it was based on the [[Squier Super-Sonic]] a guitar Way and his brother, [[Gerard Way|Gerard]], had always wanted. The guitar also features a natural finished neck, black pick guard and Way's signature on the back of the head.

Way's personal example varied rather heavily from the production model, being produced by [[Fender Custom Shop]] in [[Corona, California]]. The most obvious of the changes being the Fender marked headstock, oddly marked 'Fender BASS', as opposed to 'Fender Mustang Bass'. Less noticed changes include the chrome dome shaped pot knobs (as opposed to black plastic) and a black painted neck, as opposed to the satin clear finish of the production variant. Although official specifications were never revealed, it is highly likely the body of Way's variant was made of Alder, as opposed to the production models Basswood. Way's own example was fitted with an [[EMG, Inc.|EMG 35Hz]], unlike the production variant's custom unbranded model.
⚫
{{clear}}

===Fender Mikey Way Jazz Bass===
{{Infobox Guitar model|title=Mikey Way Jazz Bass
|image=
|bgcolor=#FFFFFF
|manufacturer=[[Fender Musical Instruments Corporation|Fender]]
|period=2023
|bodytype=Solid
|necktype=[[Bolt-on]]
|scale=34"
|woodbody=[[Alder]]
|woodneck=Maple, "70's C" Shape,(Satin Finish)
|woodfingerboard= [[maple]] with black [[Purfling#Related techniques|binding]]
|bridge=Fixed
|pickups=’70s single-coil Jazz Bass pickups
|colors=Gloss Silver Sparkle
}}
The '''Fender Mikey Way Jazz Bass''' is a limited edition signature series variant of the [[Fender Jazz Bass]] produced in 2023 by [[Fender (company)|Fender]] at their [[Ensenada, Mexico]] facility. The bass is heavily equipped with 1970s style Jazz Bass hardware, it is equipped with Fender's 70s Jazz Bass pickups, with a vintage-style 4 saddle bridge, Fender stamped tuners and an all-maple neck with [[Inlay (guitar)#Fretboard|black block inlays]] and [[Purfling#Related techniques|binding]], with a 70s 'C' shape neck. The bass is inspired by Way's circa 2002 touring bass, a 2001 Fender American Designer Jazz Bass, a Guitar Center exclusive, which was also finished in Silver Sparkle with a blackout headstock, however featured a [[Rosewood]] fingerboard and white pick guard as standard, which way kept until the Bass was lost when the band forgot to securely lock a box on a touring van in about 2003. The run of models featured an exclusive serial number prefix of MW23, As opposed to the standard MX23 prefix that would have otherwise been used.

{{Clear}}

== Style ==
=== With My Chemical Romance ===
Way has always played bass with a [[Guitar pick]], alike to many other pop punk bassists such as [[Mike Dirnt]] of [[Green Day]] and [[Mark Hoppus]] of [[Blink 182]]. On [[My Chemical Romance]]'s debut album [[I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love]] (2002), Way's bass playing had a very key role in the sound of the album, due to the band having only one guitarist at the time. In the bands follow up album, [[Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge]] (2004), Way's style took a backseat for the most part, riding the root note of new rhythm guitarist [[Frank Iero]]'s riffs, with the only obvious exception being the track, 'Give 'Em Hell Kid', of which the opening riff has become a staple of 2000's emo bass riffs. Way mostly kept the same approach for [[The Black Parade]] (2006), with mostly following Iero's chord progressions, with the exceptions of [[Welcome to the Black Parade]], Mama and Cancer, the latter of which may have been written by lead guitarist [[Ray Toro]], due to there being no record of Way playing finger style bass, as opposed to Toro as seen on their October 2006 [[Saturday Night Live]] performance. Way's bass writing took a major step up for the bands most recent album [[Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys]] (2010), with songs like [[Planetary (GO!)]] and [[Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)]] showing a new side of Way's writing, with the former heavily utilising [[Octave]] riffs. For the majority of his time with My Chemical Romance, Way has used both a [[Fender Jazz Bass]] and [[Fender Precision Bass]] extensively live and in recording, in 2009, Way started using a selection of [[Fender Mustang Bass]]es, leading up to the release of his signature bass model. Since My Chemical Romance, Way has only used two [[Fender Custom Shop]] [[Fender Jazz Bass|Jazz Basses]], with identical specs with sparkle finishes, one in silver, and one in black. Way rarely strays from standard tuning (EADG) on My Chemical Romance records, with the only major exception being the 2012 compilation album [[Conventional Weapons]], with heavily utilised half step down tuning (D#G#C#F#), along with few tracks off [[Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys|Danger Days]]. The 'only' example of drop tuning being 'Drowning Lessons' off their debut album, which was recorded in Drop D (DADG).

=== Collaborative Work ===
Over the span of My Chemical Romance's hiatus, Way recorded with numerous other artists, most notably [[Waterparks (band)|Waterparks]] and [[Andy Biersack]]. through both of these projects, Way stuck to his classic root note pop style bass riffs. A big change when recording for Beirsack's debut solo album, [[The Shadow Side]], Way used Drop B alternate tuning (BF#BE), the first time Way had recorded in Drop tuning since the earliest days of My Chemical Romance, and 3 semitones lower than Drop D, the lowest tuning My Chemical Romance had ever recorded with. Through his session playing, including numerous live outings with the aforementioned bands, along with a whole tour with Waterparks, Way very frequently used a black [[Fender (company)|Fender]][[Geddy Lee]] [[Jazz Bass]], of which Way had used since [[The Black Parade World Tour]], along with a black [[Fender (company)|Fender]][[Duff McKagan]] [[Precision Bass]]


== Acting ==
== Acting ==
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==Personal life==
==Personal life==
In March 2007, Way married his first wife, Alicia Simmons.<ref>{{Cite web|last=NME|date=2007-04-23|title=Gerard Way's Brother Leaves My Chemical Romance|url= https://www.nme.com/news/music/my-chemical-romance-145-1352258 |access-date=2021-11-13|website=NME|language=en-US}}</ref> They divorced in 2013.
In March 2007, Way married his first wife, Alicia Simmons.<ref>{{Cite web|last=NME|date=2007-04-23|title=Gerard Way's Brother Leaves My Chemical Romance|url= https://www.nme.com/news/music/my-chemical-romance-145-1352258 |access-date=2021-11-13|website=NME|language=en-US}}</ref> They divorced in 2013.

In 2015, [[Gerard Way|his brother]] revealed on [[Reddit]] that he was a first cousin once removed of popular podcaster [[Joe Rogan]]. In October 2019, Rogan confirmed it on his podcast. He also said that despite this, the two have never met.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/joe-rogan-is-cousins-with-my-chemical-romances-gerard-way-2562971|title=Joe Rogan and My Chemical Romance's Gerard Way are cousins|website=[[NME]]|date=October 31, 2019}}</ref>


In February 2016, Way married Kristin Blanford.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Alterock|date=2016-04-26|title=Ex-MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE's Mikey Way Marries His Fiancée Kristin Colby|url=https://alterock.net/mikey-way-married/|access-date=2021-04-16|website=AlteRock|language=en-US}}</ref> Together, they have two daughters, born in 2017 and 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|last=AltPress|date=2019-06-07|title=Mikey Way and wife Kristin welcome second child|url=https://www.altpress.com/news/mikey-way-daughter-kennedy-james-way/|access-date=2021-04-16|website=Alternative Press|language=en-US}}</ref>
In February 2016, Way married Kristin Blanford.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Alterock|date=2016-04-26|title=Ex-MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE's Mikey Way Marries His Fiancée Kristin Colby|url=https://alterock.net/mikey-way-married/|access-date=2021-04-16|website=AlteRock|language=en-US}}</ref> Together, they have two daughters, born in 2017 and 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|last=AltPress|date=2019-06-07|title=Mikey Way and wife Kristin welcome second child|url=https://www.altpress.com/news/mikey-way-daughter-kennedy-james-way/|access-date=2021-04-16|website=Alternative Press|language=en-US}}</ref>
Line 158: Line 84:


== Bibliography ==
== Bibliography ==
=== Story credits ===
;Story credits
==== Series ====
* ''Collapser'' (co-written with [[Shaun Simon]], art by [[Ilias Kyriazis]], [[DC Comics]], 2019–present)<ref>{{cite news |last1=Foxe|first1=Steve|title=Mikey Way & Shaun Simon Expand on Collapser, Young Animal's Newest Series |url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/comics/young-animal/mikey-way-shaun-simon-expand-on-collapser-young-an/|work=Paste Magazine|date=April 10, 2019}}</ref>
* ''Collapser'' (co-written with [[Shaun Simon]], art by [[Ilias Kyriazis]], [[DC Comics]], 2019–present)<ref>{{cite news |last1=Foxe|first1=Steve|title=Mikey Way & Shaun Simon Expand on Collapser, Young Animal's Newest Series |url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/comics/young-animal/mikey-way-shaun-simon-expand-on-collapser-young-an/|work=Paste Magazine|date=April 10, 2019}}</ref>


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==External links==
==External links==
⚫
{{cc}}
*[http://www.mychemicalromance.com/ My Chemical Romance Official Website]
*[http://www.mychemicalromance.com/ My Chemical Romance official website]
*{{iMDb name|2427904}}
*{{iMDb name|2427904}}


Revision as of 18:29, 21 June 2024

Not to be confused with Mikey Day.

Mikey Way
Way performing in 2011 on his signature Fender Mustang Bass
Way performing in 2011 on his signature Fender Mustang Bass
Background information
Birth nameMichael James Way
Also known asThe Kobra Kid
Born (1980-09-10) September 10, 1980 (age 43)
Newark, New Jersey, U.S.
OriginBelleville, New Jersey, U.S.
Genres
Occupation(s)Musician, songwriter
InstrumentBass guitar
Years active2001–present
Member of

Michael James Way (born September 10, 1980)[1] is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the bassist of the rock band My Chemical Romance.[1] He also serves as the multi-instrumentalist and backing vocalist of rock duo Electric Century.[2][3] Way co-wrote Collapser with Shaun Simon; it was released in July 2019 on DC Comics.

Early life

Way was born September 10, 1980, in Newark, New Jersey[4] to Donna Lee Way (née Rush) and Donald Way and is of Scottish and Italian ancestry.[5] He was raised in Belleville, New Jersey alongside his older brother Gerard. Growing up, he worked in a Barnes & Noble and later Eyeball Records. Both of these played a major part in the formation of My Chemical Romance. Eyeball signed the band and released their debut record.[1]

The first concert he ever went to was a Smashing Pumpkins concert with his brother. After seeing them perform he told him "we have to do this." He was asked to join My Chemical Romance, which involved him having to improve his bass skills in the space of a week.[1][6] He has toured with From First To Last.

Music

My Chemical Romance

Main article: My Chemical Romance

Way joined American rock band My Chemical Romance in 2001 as their bassist and suggested the band's name after he read the book Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance.[7] When Way joined the band, he had to improve his bass skills in less than a week.[8] My Chemical Romance released their second album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge on June 8, 2004.[9] My Chemical Romance's third album, The Black Parade, was released on October 24, 2006.[10] My Chemical Romance released their fourth and final studio album, Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys, on November 22, 2010.[11] While touring for the album, Way collaborated with Squier to release a signature Mikey Way Fender Mustang Bass.[12] In an interview with MusicRadar, Way commented on his signature bass: "I had been sponsored by Fender through most of my time in MCR. I had contacted them about making a custom bass and they hit me back saying they wanted to give me a signature model".[13] The band announced their breakup on March 22, 2013.[14]

On October 31, 2019, My Chemical Romance announced they would be reuniting with a date in Los Angeles on December 20 and a new merchandise line.[15] They later announced a 2020 North American tour, as well as dates in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. The tour was later postponed to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[16][17]

Electric Century

Mikey Way (left) Dave Debiak (right)

For over a year after the break up of My Chemical Romance, Way remained without a band until he formed Electric Century with Sleep Station vocalist David Debiak.[18] The duo released their first song "I Lied" in February 2014.[19][20] The same month, Electric Century was included in Alternative Press's "100 Bands You Need To Know" list.[20] The magazine mentioned that "I Lied" "forges an alloy of decades-proven electronic pop" comparing it to fun. and Twenty One Pilots.[20] Alternative Press also said that the duo's album was finished and awaiting release later that year.[20] The album was recorded and mixed by D. James Goodwin at The Isokon Studio in Woodstock, New York.[20] In November, Way revealed that he had flown in February to the East Coast to complete the album but instead went to rehab.[21] Way also said the news about Electric Century would be "in the coming months."[21] On January 13, 2015, "Let You Get Away" was made available for streaming.[22] "Let You Get Away" was released as a single on April 3.[23] The band announced their debut self-titled EP on March 10, and was released on Record Store Day on April 18.[24] "Hail the Saints" and "Right There" were released as singles on May 6.[25][26]

Since releasing their debut EP, the band re-entered the studio, and spent much 2015 writing and recording new songs. In January 2016, the duo tweeted on their official Twitter page "2016 is THE year", hinting upcoming releases.[27] They announced their debut album For the Night to Control on February 24, 2016, and was released on March 9, exclusively with that week's edition of Kerrang! Magazine.[28][29] The album was officially released on July 14, 2017.[30] Their self-titled second studio album, produced by My Chemical Romance bandmate Ray Toro, was released February 26, 2021.[31]

Other musical collaborations

In November 2015, Way was featured in Good Charlotte's music video for their first single since their hiatus, "Makeshift Love".[32] He also contributed to Andy Black's debut solo album The Shadow Side, a pseudonym project from Black Veil Brides frontman Andy Biersack.[33][34] Way recorded bass for American pop punk band Waterparks on their Cluster EP,[35] and later joined them on tour with Good Charlotte, including performances at Reading and Leeds festivals.[36] Way was also a special guest DJ at Emo Nite LA's 1st-year anniversary.[37]

Acting

In 2013, Way made his acting debut on The Hub original series The Aquabats! Super Show! in the season two finale "The AntiBats!", playing the lead singer of a fictional death metal band called Asthma. Additionally, Way's brother Gerard co-directed and co-wrote the episode.[38] In 2018, Way debuted as a voice actor by voicing the role of Snarl in the Transformers: Power of the Primes animated series.[39]

Personal life

In March 2007, Way married his first wife, Alicia Simmons.[40] They divorced in 2013.

In 2015, his brother revealed on Reddit that he was a first cousin once removed of popular podcaster Joe Rogan. In October 2019, Rogan confirmed it on his podcast. He also said that despite this, the two have never met.[41]

In February 2016, Way married Kristin Blanford.[42] Together, they have two daughters, born in 2017 and 2019.[43]

Way has spoken openly about his struggles with addiction and sobriety. He has been sober since 2014, after entering rehab following an intervention.[44]

Discography

My Chemical Romance

Main articles: My Chemical Romance discography and List of songs recorded by My Chemical Romance

Electric Century

  • Electric Century (2015), EP
  • For the Night to Control (2016)
  • Electric Century (2021)

Guest performances

Bibliography

Story credits

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f "Mikey Way Bio". AllMusic.
  2. ^ Sherman, Maria (May 24, 2017). "David Debiak & My Chemical Romance's Mikey Way Talk New Project, Electric Century, & Overcoming Addiction". Billboard. Retrieved August 28, 2017.
  3. ^ Whitt, Cassie (November 25, 2014). ""I fell into total darkness." —Mikey Way (Electric Century, My Chemical Romance) on addiction, rehab". altpress. Retrieved August 28, 2017.
  4. ^ Ray, Michael. Alternative, Country, Hip-Hop, Rap, and More: Music from the 1980s to Today, p. 87. Britannica Educational Publishing, 2012. ISBN 9781615309108. Accessed November 8, 2017, "The group's original lineup consisted of Way, brother Michael James (Mikey) Way (born September 10, 1980, Newark, New Jersey) on bass, drummer Matt Pelissier, and guitarists Ray Toro (born July 15, 1977, in Kearny, New Jersey) and Frank Iero (born October 31, 1981, in Belleville, New Jersey)."
  5. ^ "My Chemical Romance channel Scottish roots at T In The Park". NME. Retrieved December 11, 2013.
  6. ^ "The transformation of My Chemical Romance". EW.
  7. ^ "11 Things You Didn't know about My Chemical Romance". Kerrang!.
  8. ^ Matthew Parker. "Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier". musicradar.com.
  9. ^ Johnny Loftus. "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic". AllMusic.
  10. ^ Stephen Thomas Erlewine. "The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic". AllMusic.
  11. ^ Stephen Thomas Erlewine. "Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys - My Chemical Romance - Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards - AllMusic". AllMusic.
  12. ^ "MIKEY WAY MUSTANG® BASS". Retrieved January 22, 2016.
  13. ^ Parker, Matthew (February 28, 2013). "Mikey Way talks bass heroes, 'Bowie moments' and his signature Squier". MusicRadar. Retrieved January 22, 2016.
  14. ^ "My Chemical Romance Break Up". Rolling Stone. March 23, 2013.
  15. ^ "Like Phantoms Forever... Tickets on Sale Friday 11/1/19 at 12:00 PM Pacific". Archived from the original on December 23, 2021. Retrieved October 31, 2019 – via Instagram.
  16. ^ "Check Out My Chemical Romance's Rescheduled US Tour Dates for 2021". June 16, 2020. Retrieved July 14, 2020 – via NME.
  17. ^ Campbell, Rachel (April 16, 2021). "My Chemical Romance reschedule tour dates for 2022". Alternative Press. Retrieved June 11, 2021.
  18. ^ "Mikey Way And David Debiak Announce New Band, Electric Century". Blast Out Your Stereo. Archived from the original on July 4, 2015. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  19. ^ "iTunes - Music - I Lied - Single by Electric Century". iTunes. February 26, 2014. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  20. ^ a b c d e "Electric Century - "I Lied" (SONG PREMIERE) - Alternative Press". Alternative Press. February 24, 2014. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  21. ^ a b "Mikey Way: "I Was Told I Should Never Have Woken Up" - Kerrang!". Kerrang!.
  22. ^ "Mikey Way's Electric Century Stream Second Single - Kerrang!". Kerrang!.
  23. ^ "iTunes - Music - Let You Get Away - Single by Electric Century". iTunes. April 3, 2015. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  24. ^ "Electric Century GER on Twitter". Twitter. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  25. ^ "iTunes - Music - Hail the Saints - Single by Electric Century". iTunes. May 6, 2015. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  26. ^ "iTunes - Music - Right There - Single by Electric Century". iTunes. May 6, 2015. Retrieved May 19, 2015.
  27. ^ Sharp, Tyler. "Electric Century: "2016 is THE year!"". Alternative Press. Retrieved January 22, 2016.
  28. ^ Ryken, Atreyue. "Mikey Way's Electric Century announce debut album". Alternative Press. Retrieved February 25, 2016.
  29. ^ "MIKEY WAY GIVES AWAY NEW ALBUM EXCLUSIVELY WITH KERRANG!". Kerrang!. Retrieved February 25, 2016.
  30. ^ "Electric Century premiere "Hey Lacey" and discuss new album—listen". Alternative Press. Retrieved July 16, 2017.
  31. ^ "Mikey Way and Shaun Simon's new Electric Century album and graphic novel will be released later this month". Upset. Retrieved February 19, 2021.
  32. ^ Hingle, James (November 13, 2015). "The New Good Charlotte Music Video Features Mikey Way". Kerrang.com. Kerrang!. Archived from the original on November 13, 2015. Retrieved November 13, 2015.
  33. ^ Biddulph, Andy. "MIKEY WAY IS ON THE ANDY BLACK ALBUM". RockSound. Retrieved January 22, 2016.
  34. ^ Hingle, James. "ANDY BIERSACK JOINED BY MIKEY WAY IN THE STUDIO". Kerrang!. Retrieved January 22, 2016.
  35. ^ "5 things you should know about Waterparks before they get big". Alternative Press. Retrieved October 26, 2016.
  36. ^ "See Waterparks + Mikey Way Play Reading and Leeds Festival". Rock Sound. Retrieved October 26, 2016.
  37. ^ Spanos, Brittany. "Mark Hoppus, Chris Carrabba on How Emo Night Vindicated the Scene". Rolling Stone. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
  38. ^ Wiederhorn, Jon (May 22, 2013). "My Chemical Romance Vocalist Gerard Way Co-Writes Episode for Kids' TV Series 'The Aquabats! Super Show!'; Continues to Work on New Music". Yahoo! Music.
  39. ^ "Mikey Way and Mark Hamill team up in 'Transformers: Power of the Primes' trailer". Alternative Press. April 26, 2018. Retrieved April 28, 2018.
  40. ^ NME (April 23, 2007). "Gerard Way's Brother Leaves My Chemical Romance". NME. Retrieved November 13, 2021.
  41. ^ "Joe Rogan and My Chemical Romance's Gerard Way are cousins". NME. October 31, 2019.
  42. ^ Alterock (April 26, 2016). "Ex-MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE's Mikey Way Marries His Fiancée Kristin Colby". AlteRock. Retrieved April 16, 2021.
  43. ^ AltPress (June 7, 2019). "Mikey Way and wife Kristin welcome second child". Alternative Press. Retrieved April 16, 2021.
  44. ^ AltPress (November 25, 2014). ""I FELL INTO TOTAL DARKNESS." —MIKEY WAY (ELECTRIC CENTURY, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE) ON ADDICTION, REHAB". Alternative Press. Retrieved November 13, 2021.
  45. ^ "5 things you should know about Waterparks before they get big". altpress. February 9, 2016.
  46. ^ Foxe, Steve (April 10, 2019). "Mikey Way & Shaun Simon Expand on Collapser, Young Animal's Newest Series". Paste Magazine.
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