Biography
Born on February 23, 1962, in San Francisco, California, Michael Wilton developed a passion for music at a young age, inspired by the burgeoning rock and metal scenes of the 1970s. He picked up the guitar as a teenager and quickly honed his skills, influenced by bands like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and Queen. After relocating to the Seattle area, he formed a number of local bands, which helped him establish a reputation as a talented guitarist, eventually leading to the creation of the iconic progressive metal band, Queensrÿche, in 1982. Wilton's early work was marked by a desire to blend heavy metal with complex musical structures and thought-provoking lyrics, setting the stage for a dynamic career ahead.
Roles
Guitarist, Songwriter
Band History
Queensrÿche, Soulbender
Signature Gear
Guitars: 1978 Gibson Les Paul Standard, 1980 Fender Stratocaster
Amps: Marshall JCM800
Microphones: Shure SM58
Cabinets: Marshall 1960A 4x12
Strings: Ernie Ball 010-046 Super Slinky
Picks: Dunlop Tortex .73mm