About Big Mike
The Chicago Kid
Band Bio:
Big Mike Perez is a Chicago native Blues artist who has resided in New Orleans for over 12 years. Mike is best known for his aggressive Chicago style of Blues Funk/Blues Rock Fusion and Powerful, Soulful vocals which was inspired by many artist in Chicago in the likes of Joanna Connor, Buddy Guy, Mike Wheeler, Rico McFarland, Carl Weathersby, The Kinsey Report, Robert Blaine, Big James and The Chicago Playboys, and many more.
While residing in Chicago, Big Mike performed at many of the popular venues like Kingston Mines, Rosa's Lounge, House of Blues Chicago, Cubby Bear, Fitzgeralds, Buddy Guy Legends and many more. He eventually started leaning towards the style of Southside Chicago blues and hasn’t left it since. His band was hired by independent artist in Chicago to perform as a backing band for them. He has notably performed at the taste of Chicago on the best buy stage, Chicago Bluesfest 2022 and 2023, The Canadian Montreal International Jazz Festival of 2022. He has performed with Sierra Green and the Giants as Musical Director and Bassist. Touring and Performing all over the United States. Tampa Bay Blues Festival 2025, Big Easy Cruise in 2025, Fort Mose Jazz and Blues Fest 2025, Waterfront Blues Festival in Madison 2025, Blast Furnace Blues Fest 2025, 100 Man Hall 2025
Since he has left Chicago, Big Mike has made a name for himself in New Orleans.
He has performed at the New Orleans Jazz Heritage Festival several times with Sierra Green and the Giants
Mike is best known for his aggressive style of blues. Emotional solos and tight gospel rhythm hits. His performances are fun and interactive. He creates a real show delivering the old school blues form of creating stories for the crowd to listen to and respond.
Mike is accompanied on stage by musicians from all around the country and has created a little Chicago in New Orleans when you walk into the club.
He has completed his debut album titled “This Song’s For You” in 2019 and is currently working on his next album.
His debut album produced by Red Tint Records is an eclectic album that encompasses Chicago Rhythm and Blues. With soul, and funk, and some rooted reggae. The album takes you on a journey of emotions. It is for everyone and anyone looking to feel something when listening. From love songs, to heartbreak, to just good old sing-a-long and dance-a-long songs, and great guitar solos. His album has it all. Created at DPL studios based out of New Orleans and Rick Barnes Studios in Chicago. This Album has taken its time to be made just right.
Big Mike & The R&B Kings is a polished blues band that is ready to knock people out of the chairs and on the dance floor.
What we offer.
His band delivers a high energy intense show with his trademark catchy tunes like Mister Big Fonkay, Save Some Funk For Sunday, and Gonna Get Some Love. Big Mike typically gives his musicians on stage freedom for long intense solos which he will keep building for every turn around.
Styles: The band plays many genres and that is do to the versatility of our musicians. Rock, Jazz, Blues, Funk, Soul, Country, and we even add Latin Grooves and rhythms.
The Real Deal
Big Mike's voice has been compared to the likes of Robert Cray and BB King. Soulful and powerful.
Self taught on guitar, bass guitar, and plays classical music on piano.
His shows are intense from beginning to end.
Want to see him Live before considering to hire? Check out our schedule or check out some great videos here on the website.