Name: Michael Anthony LePond III

DOB: February 17, 1966

POB: Newark, NJ

Instrument: Bass Guitar

How + why did you start playing/ Early Influences/ Musical training/ First piece of gear, etc:
When I was thirteen years of age, I went to see "KISS" play at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It was then that I knew I wanted to be a rock star. The first equipment I ever had was a "Univox" bass and a "Custom" 150 watt combo amp. I took lessons for one year and then learned by just jamming along with my favorite albums. My big early influence was Gene Simmons. I wanted to be just like him. I learned every KISS song that I could get my hands on.

Later Development / Main Influences:
As my style developed, I discovered some other bass players that became major influences on me. Geddy Lee inspired me because of his incredible sense of melody. Geezer Butler influenced me in the way he was able to incorporate blues into a heavy metal forum. Steve Harris blew me away with his right hand technique and guitar-like riffing. Joey Demaio taught me the power of bass chords and introduced me to his grand medieval melodies on his eight string.

How did you hookup with the band Symphony X:
I hooked up with the band through a mutual friend. Michael Romeo gave me a call and an audition was set up. I had to learn "Of Sins and Shadows", The Accolade, and "Eyes of Medusa". I was very intimidated, but I was determined to get this gig. I did well at the audition, and a second one was set up. Now I had to learn "Smoke and Mirrors" and "through the looking glass". I was lucky enough to play well again and I was offered the position. The rest is history...

Important turning points in your musical career:
Seeing a "KISS" concert in 1979 with my dad.
Receiving my first bass in 1980
Joining my first band in 1982
My first demo tape recording in 1983
My first vinyl album recorded in 1986
My first CD recorded in 1994
Joining Symphony X in 1999