Interview with Musician Michael Gira: 10 Questions
Michael Gira is a multi-talented American artist born in 1954, known for his work as a singer-songwriter, composer, author, and artist. He is the founder of the band Swans, which emerged in New York in the late 1970s, gaining fame as the “loudest band on the planet” in the 1980s. Always evolving, Swans explored new sounds and influences until their hiatus in the late 1990s.
In 2010, Swans made a remarkable comeback, establishing themselves once again as influential figures in underground rock music. Michael Gira’s unconventional approach to music aims to create a transformative experience where the intensity of the music renders everything else inconsequential. Apart from Swans, he has led other bands like Angels of Light, Skin (with Jarboe), and the Body Lovers / the Body Haters. Swans are set to release their final album, Birthing, on 30 May, followed by a tour in the UK in November 2025.
In a recent interview, Michael Gira shared insights into his creative process and plans for the future. Despite calling time on the present Swans iteration, he continues to be excited about new projects. He mentioned how listening to his latest album repetitively led to a phase where flaws became glaring, yet this dissatisfaction propelled him towards his next endeavor. For Gira, retirement is not on the horizon, as his work is intertwined with his purpose and essence.
Reflecting on Swans’ resurgence in 2010, Gira acknowledged the support and reception exceeded their expectations. Despite the challenges posed by the Internet, it has aided in widening their audience, showcasing their unconventional music to a broader demographic. Regardless of popularity, Gira emphasizes that the music holds a life of its own, transcending external validation.
Collaboration has been a crucial element of Gira’s musical journey, with many memorable partnerships. An enduring loss for him was the passing of Bill Rieflin, a close friend and collaborator who contributed to Swans’ and Angels of Light’s records. Rieflin’s multifaceted talent and enthusiasm added a unique dimension to the music-making process, leaving a lasting impact on Gira. His absence is deeply felt, underscoring the profound influence that collaborators have had on Gira’s artistic evolution.
Michael Gira’s unwavering passion for creating impactful music continues to drive him forward. His dedication to exploring new artistic frontiers and pushing boundaries underscores his commitment to his craft. As he embarks on a new chapter post-Swans, Gira’s artistic journey promises to be as unpredictable and compelling as ever.