Every great dream is fueled by the dedication of a remarkable team. In the case of Life By Music (LBM), Mike and Terri are shining examples of this commitment. From opening their hearts and home to musicians like Otherwise to becoming instrumental figures in LBM’s mission, their story is a testament to how passion and support can create lasting change.
Let’s meet the team behind the dream and celebrate their invaluable contributions to the music community.
An interview with Mike and Terri Russell:
What initially drew you to the band Otherwise, and how did your connection with Ryan and Adrian begin?
“We were first introduced to Otherwise by a mutual friend. She gave us a little bit of background on how she met them and said that we would love them… she was not wrong. We went to Rock Monkey Rukus in May of 2013 along with our friend… Otherwise was playing midday.
“We were blown away by their performance… their energy was unmatched by the rest of the bands that day. She introduced us to the boys later that day, and I told Adrian, ‘You were best in show.’ He said, ‘Oh, like a dog show? I like that.’
“They made a very lasting impression, that’s for sure. After that day, we went to every show possible in a four-hour radius of our home, went to every VIP we could, and after a couple of shows, they recognized and remembered us. With every show, our friendship grew… we now call ourselves their ‘road parents.'”
What’s it like hosting the band?
“We love opening our home to musicians… especially Otherwise. We love how relaxed and at home they feel here… that’s what we strive for.
“We feel that any money they can put in their pockets helps them immensely, so why pay for a hotel room when they can save that money and stay here? I always tell Adrian and Ryan that it’s really all about me… if they are well-fed, rested, and hydrated, then I get a better show… lol.
“We have so many wonderful memories and special moments with them that it’s hard to come up with just one. But one that does come to mind is when we had enjoyed a taco bar for dinner that night along with an amazing bottle of tequila. The four of us were sitting at the kitchen table chatting when Mike had asked Ryan if he could ask him a serious question. Ryan says, ‘Yes, my mouth is open, and I won’t stop eating.’ We all had a good laugh.
“Mike then wrote a parody song of ‘Won’t Stop,’ which they then played live at a VIP a few weeks later. It was the first time the guys had heard it as they were singing it. Everyone loved it… the guys were great for playing along… lol.”
What motivated you to get involved with Life By Music when it first launched?
“We feel that LBM is such an amazing program. Giving kids who otherwise might not have the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument is just simply amazing. It could make such a difference in a child’s life.
“Keeping the arts alive in our schools is very important. Helping veterans with an outlet for their mental health is amazing. We hope that one day this program will be nationwide.
“We felt very strongly that we needed to be involved with LBM in any way we possibly could and are so grateful for the opportunity. We will be involved as long as Ryan will let us. :)”
How has your role in supporting the fundraiser evolved over the years?
“My first year at the LBM fundraiser was the first year they had it. Mike was not with me; I was on a girls’ weekend. We had an amazing time. I was really there just for the total experience at the time. I helped Jessi with a few things… but then I knew that I wanted to be more involved.
“We became sponsors the second year and have attended three of the four years so far, and we plan to attend every one possible. Each year we have helped with more of the mountain of duties that are required to run such an amazing event. We are willing to do anything and everything Ryan and Jessi need to pull it off.
“We love seeing the growth and success it has every year. Ryan and Jessi have done amazing with LBM, and we hope to be involved for as long as they will have us.”
What’s your favorite song from Otherwise and why?
“This one is really hard. I don’t think I have a ‘favorite,’ and neither does Mike. Each song has special meanings to us, and each album holds a special place in our hearts.”
What was your favorite part of this year’s fundraiser?
“Mike has two favorite parts of this year’s event:
“1. Riding in the golf cart with Adrian and Sean, meeting all the golfers, harassing them, and goofing around.
2. Meeting Mr. Boylan.
Terri: Ryan getting the key to the Strip and November 2 being named as Life By Music Day.”
Conclusion
Mike and Terri’s involvement with Life By Music underscores the impact of community support on creative initiatives. Their generosity, passion, and hands-on approach inspire those around them to join in the mission. As they put it, “We’ll be involved for as long as Ryan and Jessi will have us.”
The dream of Life By Music thrives because of people like Mike and Terri—individuals who believe in the power of music to transform lives. Their story reminds us that behind every great cause is a team fueled by love and dedication.
To learn more about the mission and how you can support Life By Music, visit Life By Music.