BREAKING NEWS:Michael Kenney Interview Excerpt – Steve Harris and Manny’s Music…

**Interviewer**: Michael, you’ve had a long career working alongside some legendary musicians, especially with Iron Maiden’s Steve Harris. Can you talk a little about how that relationship began?

**Michael Kenney**: Absolutely. My relationship with Steve goes back to the late ‘80s. I was working as a keyboard tech at the time and got connected through a mutual contact. I think what really helped was that I wasn’t just a tech; I understood music, and I was also a musician myself. Steve really appreciated that. He wanted someone who could help translate the band’s epic sound into live shows, especially since Iron Maiden’s music is so layered. Over time, I became more than just a tech; I became a collaborator.

**Interviewer**: That’s fascinating. Iron Maiden has such a complex and dynamic sound. What’s it like working with someone like Steve, who is so meticulous about every detail?

**Kenney**: Working with Steve is demanding, but in the best way. He’s got an ear for everything, and that includes how each instrument fits into the broader picture. Steve’s bass playing is so integral to the sound of Iron Maiden that every note has to be spot-on. What makes him stand out is his commitment. He’s not just playing bass; he’s orchestrating the sound, making sure everything fits exactly the way he wants. That level of dedication forces you to up your game, which is what I love about working with him.

**Interviewer**: You’re known for your long association with Manny’s Music in New York. Can you talk about how that shop influenced your career?

**Kenney**: Manny’s was a magical place for any musician. It was more than just a store—it was a hub for musicians. I remember going there as a young musician, and it felt like walking into a treasure trove. The walls were lined with pictures of legends who had walked through its doors, from Jimi Hendrix to The Beatles. It’s where I first connected with a lot of people in the industry, both musicians and other techs.

I bought my first serious gear there—stuff that helped shape my sound and, later, what I used while working with Iron Maiden. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable, and they could talk to you about anything, whether it was amps, pedals, or keyboards. There’s a reason why it became such an iconic part of New York’s music scene.

**Interviewer**: Was there a specific moment at Manny’s that stands out to you?

**Kenney**: There were so many! But I’d say the first time I walked in and realized just how much history was in that space. I met so many key figures in the industry there. It was a community, really. That’s where I felt like I transitioned from being just a fan to being part of the professional music world. Manny’s had that effect on a lot of musicians.

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This excerpt highlights Kenney’s professional relationship with Steve Harris and his connection to Manny’s Music, a cornerstone in his development as a musician and tech.