Mike Campese, born April 2 in Albany, New York, is an American guitarist and composer. He graduated from Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, and Shaker High School. Campese's career began with his debut album Full Circle in 2000, followed by Total Freedom in 2001. In 2005, he joined the multi-platinum group Trans-Siberian Orchestra for their fourth CD, The Lost Christmas Eve, earning a gold record. Campese released his own rock Christmas album, The Meaning of Christmas, in 2008. He has collaborated with numerous artists, including The B-52's, Lou Reed, and Yngwie Malmsteen. His music was featured in the Lions Gate movie Vampire Assassins and he performed at Crüe Fest 2 tour alongside Mötley Crüe and Godsmack. Campese was inducted into the Thomas Edison Music Hall of Fame in 2023.
