Mike Stillman began classical piano lessons at age 7 and trumpet at age 9. He picked up bass guitar in high school to form a band with friends who played guitars and drums. Mike made All-State Band in high school, but this accomplishment has no gig-related benefits, as it was on another instrument. During songs with boring bass parts and nice crowds, he sometimes acts as the band's photographer. He's been in bands from high school through college, pausing during grad school. In addition to Usually Normal, Mike has been a member of The Skinny Ties and Throwback, and has filled in for such bands as Sherman & The Waybacks. A recent poll named Mike as "Massachusetts' Most Melodic Bass Player And Medical Writing Consultant" for 2011. His bass influences include Paul McCartney, John Entwistle, Bruce Thomas (Elvis Costello), Bruce Foxton (The Jam), and Carol Kaye (Motown and just about everything else).