Legend was Homeless & IN and OUT of Jail…Then CAME Back with 2 GOLD Records! | Professor of Rock

Coming up next, a very special interview that I was over the moon to get.. Mike Ness of Social Distortion. This Rock Icon released his debut album in the early 80s... It was self-funded, but then his career would take a long 5 year hiatus as he became homeless, sleeping on friends' couches while Struggling with addiction, and was even in and out of jail… He took these real-life born-to-lose experiences and released a classic album with three huge singles that took him from Homeless to Hit status with 2 straight gold records. Story of My Life and Ball and Chain and then a punk cover of Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire. He’s since become the heir to the Man in Black by way of punk and rockabilly. Up next this icon tells us his story.
Thank you to this Episodes Sponsor, Zenni
GET ZENNI Glasses HERE: imp.i279709.net/vn5gLd
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Executive Producer
Brandon Fugal
Honorary Producers
Mark Thompson, Paul J Simon, Mike Millet, Kristina Michele, Brent Gephart, Glenn Beardmore, Jennifer Selvidge, Carl Curcuruto
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check out my Hand Picked Selection Below
Professor's Store
- Van Halen OU812 Vinyl Album amzn.to/3tLsII2
- The 80s Collection amzn.to/3mAekOq
- 100 Best Selling Albums amzn.to/3h3qZX9
- Ultimate History of 80s Teen Movie amzn.to/3ifjdKQ
- 80s to 90s VHS Video Cover Art amzn.to/2QXzmIX
- Totally Awesome 80s A Lexicon amzn.to/3h4ilrk
- Best In Ear Headphones (I Use These Every Day) amzn.to/2ZcTlIl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check Out The Professor of Rock Merch Store -bit.ly/ProfessorMerch
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check Out Patron Benefits
bit.ly/ProfessorofRockVIPFan
Help out the Channel by purchasing your albums through our links! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.
Click here for Premium Content: bit.ly/SignUpForPremiumContent
bit.ly/Facebook_Professor_of_...
bit.ly/Instagram_Professor_of...
#classicrock #rock #vinylstory
Hey Music Junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you want the straight stories behind rock’s legendary hits make sure to subscribe below right now and click the bell so that you always know when our new ones drop. also, check out our exclusive content on Patreon and our latest merch…
I’ve always wanted to interview today’s artist. I discovered him through the Columbia House 12 albums for a penny deal I Signed up back in the day under about 8 different aliases in order to build my music collection. That’s what we did before Spotify This band, this frontman spoke to me with his rockabilly meets punk attitude and his Johnny Cash by the way of Rolling Stones style that shook up mainstream radio as the 80s were turning into the 90s
I’m talking about Mike Ness of Social Distortion and his third self-titled album with the amazing songs Story of My Life, Ball and Chain, and his cover of Johnny Cash’s Ring of Fire. This album was a true revelation with fits our show revelations where artists go deep on their great songs and albums. I was able to sit down with the man himself Mike Ness and he told me the story of this great record and the songs that made it one of the best albums of its time.
Mike Ness started Social Distortion after being blown away by Punk music and his first album was self-funded came out in 1983. It was called Mommy’s little monster and it had bite. But Mike Ness would encounter some rough times as he found himself homeless, sleeping on friend’s couches and he would spiral into addiction and would have his troubles with the law in and out of jail. He was able to kick his habit and a full 5 years later he put out his second record.
Prison bound then he got his first real record deal and released his first album that he didn’t have to fun himself. The self-titled Social Distortion record took him to the masses on the strength of the Story of My Life and Ball and Chain and he had a gold record… his next album Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell was his seance straight gold album and included the classic song Bad Luck. Up next Mike Ness the Prophet of Rockabilly Punk and the heir to Johnny Cash’s Born to Lose crown tells us his story.
Leave us a comment about Mike Ness and Social Distortion What are your memories and thoughts on this icon of Rockabilly Punk Let’s discuss in the comments. If you dig our content, our videos make sure to subscribe below

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick the greatest punk album?

[@davidmurphy6802]

So many good ones to pick from but in the end it has to be Never Mind the Bullocks

[@himay333]

Greatest has to be Never Mind the Bollocks - it's just such a monumental record. My favorite however, is Pennywise's Unknown Road.

[@SoggyDonuts79]

Rancid: ...And Out Come the Wolves.

[@petercena9497]

Raw Power - The Stooges

[@SPak-rt2gb]

MC5 - Kick Out The Jams Misfits - Walk Among Us

[@Ryan-gv7gy]

“I was wrong” might have saved my life. Thanks Mike I’m alive because you wrote a song. Save a life and you saved the world. Thank you.

[@davemarriott9332]

Mike, an old sort of buddy from back in '87. I just got out of rehab at Care Unit O.C. and Mike was 30 days behind me. Johnny Wickersham a good friend from the punk scene walked up to the Costa Mesa Alano Club where we would hit meetings at and Johnny shuffled up from the back parking lot with 2 Market Basket grocery brown paper bags full of his belongings and Mike immediately says "look who's coming to the meeting....Ol' Johnny 2 Bags. I remember getting pushed around by the football players at Carona del Mar High School pretty much daily. Scott Murdock, John Q Humphries and I didn't budge from being who we believed in being. This Junior at school took notice, her name was Linda Becker. She was a punker who wore high high heals, funeral net thing that hung from her 50's hat and a tight skirt with fishnets. She said, "hey kid, where do you live?" "Uh Baywood Apartments" "I'll be there tomorrow morning at 7:30am to pick you up.....I'm done watching you get hassled by these jocks". So she did and did for the rest of the school year. One day she said " I'm going to the Cuckoo's Nest tonight to watch my boyfriends band play (chuck from the Discords) you want to go?" "I think I" "Good, I'll pick you up at 8pm". We walked into the parking lot and it was a party back there. Southern Comfort and clove cigarettes were the order of the night. Show started and the Discords were opening for Social Distortion. I had the Mainliner 45 and the 1945 EP so I was stoked to see them finally, hell, see any band live at that point. We walked in and Linda disappeared, I looked up and Mike was on stage and the Pit had recently been created there at the Nest and it was on that night. Back at the Alano Club seeing Mike walk in was surreal. Seeing Johnny there and a day sober was a miracle. I'd seen him battle his demons and I hated seeing him like that but I don't think he's spent another day loaded since that day. Mike and I lived in the Pomona st halfway houses and used to sit playing guitars and later Mike sold me my first real Les Paul. His 70's Black Beauty that had some wear on it but I didn't care. Mike as well as Johnny are Rock Stars deservedly but both are at heart really good hearted people. Anytime I reach out to say hey to Johnny he's right there with a reply and I have to give him credit for getting me clean again years later from something he said to me one night at the Warfield S.F.. These guys are the real deal and I've always said Mike's the Johnny Cash of our generation so it was good to hear someone else mention that. If you love music one tends to pick an icon, a maker of memories from the good times and a reflection of when they hit harder ones. The song "Reach for the Sky" literally got me through my divorce a decade ago. Mike will go down in history as one the greats in Rock n Roll. Anyone who has fallowed him or is just getting acquainted will agree. thank god the rock n roll hall of fame means absolutely nothing to real fans. Social Distortion got their award long ago.

[@rogerklein1007]

Fantastic interview Professor! I signed Social D in 1989 to Epic Record when I was a VP of A&R! They were huge favorites of Pearl Jam, Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen. I remember being with Mike at a Sony Music Grammy party and Mariah Carey came up to him and told him how much she loved Story Of My Life!

[@ProfessorofRock]

WOW! Roger it's great to meet you! Thanks for sharing. Would love to maybe interview you at some point. Would you mind emailing me at [e-mail]?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Roger, you need to be on the show!

[@cynthiaquihuis269]

I am glad Mariah didn’t do a cover of Story of My Life.

[@davidl570]

@@cynthiaquihuis269 SHHHH............................don't give her any ideas!

[@residentpotato6023]

I bet Ness bought her a chalupa and then banged her.

[@kcamato2294]

Mike Ness's bass player Brent Liles lived with me in Las Vegas shortly before he passed away. My band had him on stage to play with us and he just loved it. RIP

[@lorenvictor6290]

My brother introduced me to Social D back in the 80s. We went to see them 6 times in assorted Arizona venues. After he passed I had a hard time listening to SD. Last November my daughter bought me tickets to a show in Phoenix. My first show without my brother. I was leaning on the side of the stage. After the last song, Ring of Fire, Mike Ness was leaving, he looked at me and knelt down and handed me his guitar pick. I smiled and looked up and gave my brother a smile. BTW, I’m a 60 year old Native American. Get well Mike.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[@2352anne]

Sorry for the loss of your brother. Beautiful story. ❤

[@joeldukes303]

I was totally born here too! Born to lose baby!

[@johndoe-cb5ck]

Descendents with social distortion at the metro in phoenix

[@mikesanfilippo2340]

Get well?

[@pauliescott]

Getting Ness in for an interview is huge. Next level Professor!

[@TJ-id6ee]

yes!!

[@pja4671]

How do you not ask him about.......I Was Wrong?

[@coolnegative]

Anyone else love the that there was a tiny dog just chilling out on the couch next to him?

[@mikederivan5872]

His solo stuff gets overlooked a bit in my opinion. Cheating at Solitaire is a fantastic album. Saw him touring it at The Catalyst in Santa Cruz. Killer show

[@lowbrow_industriez]

Love the Catalyst! I grew up in Half Moon Bay and we used to go to shows at the catalyst all the time 💯🎸🤙😎

[@andycole3825]

Agreed! Whatever he brings is just gold.

[@travisryan7035]

Yep 👍 his solo stuff is fun.

[@toddroper7944]

Mike Ness is an American Treasure. Winners and Losers is my favorite Social D song but there are many great ones. The band puts on a great live show every time I've seen them over the last 25 years.

[@mycawk7171]

Yes he is. And that is such a great song. One of my all time favorites by Social D.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I know nothing about this band but watching him today he seems like a sensible man.

[@marktait2371]

yeh agree mike despite hus personal struggles one of best talents of the 90s my brother waa a bigger fan than me had a few cds we went to a small club show before they moved on to bigger venues was graciuos kind of guy thanked us for coming mingled with fans had cds i think.we got one great band looking back was ciol to see up close sd quickly became way bigger i may still.have the cd like 94 5 maybe

[@tommykokotinis9248]

Great song...acoustic Angel's Wings is too

[@bluespinsix6987]

I love that song as well. It has helped me through some tough times in my life.

[@shakeandbreak2938]

Mike Ness is a true American icon, forever woven into the fabric of Americana. A perfect example of mankind...triumphs, hardships, regret, and redemption. Whether it's a folk or blues cover, or an original composition, he has never failed to show us his originality in being an artist. Thank you, Mike Ness, and Social distortion members for always being there to get me through the good times and the bad.

[@HaXaW5150]

Three chords and the truth really hits home when it come to Mike. I love 'em.

[@pettynerd1285]

Social Distortion is one of my favorite bands. My wife and I have probably seen them over 30 times, from the 80's to now. Story of my Life did speak directly to me, it was 1990, I got laid off from my job and went on tons of interviews and I remember thinking that all anyone saw in me was that I was some young punk rocker, I did land a job that fall and I still work at that same company 33 years later.

[@CCS216]

I hope his health is doing good. I saw them on the Prison Bound tour in 88. Sham 69 was supposed to open, but didn’t. They played every song they recorded, including most of what became the Social D record. Amazing dedication.

[@blazerhawkdarren68]

Mike Ness is a great guy. My son and I met him and Social Distortion at their sound check before their concert in our town in Central Oregon back in 2012. Mike took great interest in a kid who had a guitar for the group to sign. The first rock star I ever met.

[@ProfessorofRock]

He is a great guy. Loved getting to spend time with him and so happy to hear you and your son had such a good experience with him!

[@blazerhawkdarren68]

@ProfessorofRock this is why I think that you need more subscribers. Like I said in my shout out video to your channel, you interview all of these great artists. You do an awesome job with your content.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I wish I met him now!

[@stevedoredandyfunk3032]

I got to meet Mike Ness during the 97 (I think) Warped Tour. We somehow wandered our way around to where the tour buses were. It wasn't the intention, we were just some 20 year old kids who would hang around venues until we got ran off. He stepped off his bus right in front of us and I was floored. Totally starstruck, but Mike was the coolest. He gave us a few minutes of his time to talk and sign stuff for us even though we were clearly somewhere we probably shouldn't have been. Super down to earth and genuine. Seeing the band that day, then actually getting to meet one of my heroes was a major deflection point for my life, and something I'll never forget.

[@dwells37]

Mike seems like such a real person! So chill and so funny. You can tell he's been through a lot, and grateful to be where he is now.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great way of putting it! He's such a solid guy

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Really sweet guy.

[@theAxehound]

He's a bully! Who beats someone while three people hold them down?!! A bully midget

[@TheJbhmetal]

As much as I love Social Distortion, I wish I could agree. He beat up a fan for disagreeing with him about 5 years ago.

[@dwells37]

@@TheJbhmetal I hate to hear that

[@TheShadowKarl]

Wow your show is better than anything like it ever made on TV and you do this yourself for KZbin. I am really impressed with how many interviews you have landed and all the stories you have shared about these artists. You're really doing so much to keep music history alive and accessible to so many people. Thanks for another great interview and keeping the music alive and heard.

[@chrisschultz7941]

Mike Ness is one of my musical heros. I love that he has always done it, and continues to do it his way. He IS rock and roll!!

[@LeeRalph100]

I am 62 and was introduced to punk, late 70's early 80's. somehow I missed Social D. I recently found them ...now I am a HUGE fan!! "Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell" is one of favorite albums. When my day at work is dragging I put it on in the earbuds, and I am in 7th heaven. Kudos on the interview with Mike Ness!!!

[@missyolson6399]

My, then 6 year, old bald hysterical when he learned of Mike Ness's cancer diagnosis.The thought of never getting to see him live was crushing. We were so appreciative of his successful treatment and that he was able to see Mike Ness the following year. Last month we saw him at the Palace theater in St. Paul, MN and we a blast. Mike is iconic and just pure. I'm glad that his music is something that I can share with my son.

[@Holden2341]

Great interview! I discovered Social D. when I was 14 when I stumbled across the documentary "Another State of Mind" on Night Flight in the mid 80's. This was my first real introduction to punk music and it blew me away! It had a HUGE influence on my musical tastes from that day on. Thanks Mike and Adam for all that you do!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing!

[@mycawk7171]

Part of Anothet State of Mind was filmed in my city. Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada. It was the part where that tour started to break down across the Canadian Prairies. Such a good documentary. I wore my VHS copy out.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I should watch this documentary.

[@Neridog]

Another State of Mind is so great. It's such an amazing picture of the punk scene at the time. Definitely a big influence on me too!

[@joedeal8802]

Man one of two bands I’ve cherished over the years. Social D and Misfits. Two bands that speak to my youthful self. Mike Ness is such a brilliant songwriter.

[@jdkimple]

Thank you so much for this interesting conversation! Mike Ness and Social D have been a big part of my life for many many years.

[@jimmyramone7396]

Ball and Chain and Story of my life seemed nostalgic to me, even though i was about 21. 30 years later, it hits to the heart. Still, i'm grateful to be alive and to have my health.

[@mycawk7171]

So true, brother. Even at a young age (I was 14 when the album came out), it gave me that nostalgic sense. I still listen to it at least once a week.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I need to give these two songs a listen!

[@jimmyramone7396]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 love them. If you drink while listening, you'll cry. You might cry without drinking! 🤣🍺

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@jimmyramone7396 I’m not 21 yet. But this cracks me up. 🤣

[@jimmyramone7396]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 don't drink.

[@suemiller2522]

Love Social D! Was bummed they had to drop out of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming a few weeks ago. Get well soon, Mike! Thanks for all you do, Professor. Love the daily vids.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks, you too!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Rock on Sue 🤘

[@madimc]

Man this show is just getting better and better

[@Riskmangler]

So glad you did a video on Mike Ness. He's straddling that line between the underground and the mainstream for all the right reasons. Good on you Professor! And Ball and Chain is one of the great American songs. Of any era. Just perfect.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I hate to be late to the party but I haven’t heard Ball and Chain yet! Guess it’s time for me to hear it.

[@Skoora]

So Far Away is one of the best album openers of all time.

[@BillKrayer12thMan]

Just found out about Mike's diagnosis of first stage tonsil cancer (never heard of such a thing!) hope he recovers quickly from the surgery and would love to see them here in Seattle!! #BucketList Thanks for bringing this to us!! Love your channel!! Much ❤ from Seattle ‼️🎸on!!🤘

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks Bill!

[@TJ-id6ee]

I second that since I'm in Olympia!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’m gonna pray for him!

[@msh4281]

I'll be there representing first hill or pill hill as it's known to the locals, positive energy for mike, from Washington and the PNW!!

[@davidl570]

Damn, never heard of that either! Sorry to hear it---he's one tough S.O.B., so I know he'll get through this. He's in my prayers.

[@xannith9533]

There is nothing like Mike Ness with his guitar strung to his ankles stepping into the first note of the solo. What a legend.

[@WhiteTrashJim]

They great thing about Mike’s solos are they all sound the same and played out of key 🤮

[@michaelchristiansen2063]

What a great interview! I’ve always known his music, but I never knew his story. He’s such an honest, straightforward guy, and you can’t help but appreciate how much he’s earned his success. Not only do I still love the music, but now I’m a “cotton top” fan of the man, too! Thanks, Adam, for a wonderful piece of music history.

[@RFXLR]

I am so glad you did this interview, Adam! I've been a SD fan for a long time and I always loved how Mike wrote his songs. He had his heart on his sleeve and always wrote with no holds barred. One of my favorites is I Was Wrong. I think most people can have some degree of self-destructive behaviors and the best way to overcome those tendencies is to admit your faults. I've had to grow up a lot and when I feel like I'm slipping backwards, I think of that song and it keeps me on track.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great way of putting it!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I went through a dark period like that where I hurt myself a lot. But luckily, I came out of the dark.

[@tm0054]

This is def my favorite Social D song. The whole album was great.

[@TheSlowoldman]

WL, WH, WT is my favorite SD album, the boys had done a bit more living and it shows. My favorite SD song is When The Angels Sing..... fantastic video too.

[@andycole3825]

Amen bro!

[@jeffseven2194]

I would've never made it through the 90s without Social Distortion, Thanks Mike

[@mark65mc]

Mike Ness is still one of the coolest people on earth.

[@elefantrising]

All of us where born to loose, that is why we connect with SD and that is the story of our lives Ness happens to tell it in a song he represents all of us that are rough around the edges. cheers to him

[@christopherbenson9942]

Ness & Co. have had a huge impact on me from way back as a kid in late 80's. I'm 53 now, and still listen to them all the time. Some of their tunes have literally pulled me thru some tough times in the past. Great interview...thanks for sharing.

[@zippitydoodah5693]

My band were huge fans of Mike Ness and Social D. Got to see him a couple of times. We had an odd little subculture of desert-psychobilly-punk-rock fusion that was happening from the early to mid nineties all the way through the grunge era.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Awesome to hear!

[@justinfoot52]

Best episode yet! The man, the myth, the legend! The one and only Mike Ness! Social Distortion is my favorite Punk Rock/ Rock and Roll band. I never thought this interview would happen. Well done, Professor! Keep it up!

[@baronclime6423]

Mike, doesn't get near enough credit for being one of the greatest songwriters and performers. Love this interview Prof!

[@intertubicular]

That was such an awesome interview. When I was playing drums in a rock cover band, one of the songs we played was "BAD LUCK" at our gigs. The crowds always went wild when we played it. It's such a gritty kick ass song. Thanks for the interview professor. Really enjoyed hearing Mike Ness talk about himself, Social Distortion' and his thoughts on music writing.

[@trinaq]

Thanks for sharing your interview with Mike, Adam. I'm glad that he was able to turn his life around after being homeless, and was able to shape his songs after his past experiences.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

This was an inspiring interview. Godspeed, Mr. Ness.

[@pattonmoore]

All thanks to the Columbia House Record and Tape club! I couldn't have started my music collection without it! 12 albums for a penny and then 2 for full price. I remember thinking at the time "where am I going to get $25?" "Oh well I've got a year to figure it out!"

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Right on the money!

[@danieldwyer5139]

I joined three or four times over the years at one point built up a collection of over 300 CDs. It was awesome bought the first CD player when it came out 1980 or 81

[@saraforhan6442]

Columbia House = Cassettes with the 2 pink lines on the side. I don't own a working tape player and I have a special stash of cassettes saved but I know somewhere in our basement, there's a box of cassettes that I can't bear to toss. Gone are the days where we bought a single album, cassette or CD for ONE stupid song. 😂 I like buying digital music, but damn, I sure do miss getting that cardboard box of music at my door.😢 4 for the price of 1! Got quite a few box sets at decent prices.

[@mycawk7171]

Mike Ness and Social Distortion helped me navigate my teen years and beyond. Something about this band just spoke to me. Mike is the best song writer in the punk genre. He is a masterful story teller. And I agree with him on Sweet Low Down being a signature song that defines what Social D is. It is my favorite song by them. It was my wife's and mines song (RIP Jenn). It hurts sometimes to listen to it, but they are tears of joy and love. Thanks again Professor.

[@eugenesmith4299]

thanks for this interview. Mike Ness/Social Distortion have stayed with me since I first heard the music in my early 20s to now well into middle age. For me it's like hearing someone who speaks the language and gets it, and I don't have to struggle to put my stuff into words. nothing but gratitude, love, and respect for Mike Ness

[@lucasglowacki4683]

The way you deliver the nostalgia of my youth is simply euphoric!❤️

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha! Thanks Lucas! Any requests?

[@Executioner_of_Time]

I saw Social Distortion and Sonic Youth open for Neil Young at The Summit in Houston. Neil personally picked these lesser known bands that had just signed to the same label. Thanks for doing this one Professor. Shout out Mike! I first saw you in Another State of Mind in the mid 80's and have been a fan since.

[@specialfotog]

I was at that show too!

[@MikeRay1978]

That tour changed a lot for Social D. He got his guitar tone from Niel then. A les Paul custom with a maple neck and. P90 pickup.

[@Emergefit]

Ball And Chain really is The Story Of My Life, for this Prison Bound Little Monster. Mike Ness truly saved me from an eternity of alcoholism, once I realized what the song was actually about, and visualized myself in it. A legitimate hero in my life, and somebody who helped me turn the corner. Bless…

[@RogerPilcher]

I can't get enough of this band and yes, I am a 65 year old "cotton top." There is just something about him and his messages and the sound, that hits me where it should.

[@gregglackin]

Social D, New Order, Ministry, Love & Rockets...these are the bands that opened my eyes to what music was and blew my mind out of the typical pop radio music world. The mid to late eighties were by far the last great musical time...your mileage may vary...

[@Pazuzu82]

Your right there is something very magical in the 80s songs, I love Joy Division more than New Order though.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Really engaging as always man. It's superb whenever you break down music and the artists behind, especially in this manner. Cheers as always

[@ProfessorofRock]

THanks RC32. You are so awesome. Grateful you spend the time every day!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@ProfessorofRock it's always and certainly a pleasure to be here!

[@misterssippi601]

There is no substitute for Mike Ness or social distortion. One of the most underrated bands of all time. Started in the 70's and still writing great songs to this day

[@seanogorman3617]

Loved this. I’ve been listening to social d almost my whole life. 42 years old. Music and art does shape you. Can’t wait to see them again in a couple months. Mike’s a legend. His music has moved me to my core, and relate so much. Thank you.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Mike Ness has that Bruce Willis cool about him, he is so real and comfortable as himself. Social Distortion version of Ring of Fire is my absolute favorite cover, really made it a punk classic. While Story of my Life made punk mainstream again this band has the real punk energy and rebellion of what punk rock is all about. Great interview professor now I have to go crank up some SD in my ear pods!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen! Great comment!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a great cover. I wonder what Johnny Cash thought.

[@michaelrussom9347]

Was great to see Social Distortion and Bad Religion play together here in Australia, neither band has lost anything over the years, was an incredible show.💚

[@Pazuzu82]

Love Bad Religion aswel, 21 Century Digital Boy and American Jesus kick ass!

[@stevenemig5524]

A friend started taking me to punk shows in L.A., in 1988, to properly introduce me to punk. The third show he took me to was 10 bands for $10 at Scream in L.A.. I kind of had a headache, I still wasn't sure about punk, yet. Then this band, Social Distortion, played Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire." As a Gen X kid from Ohio, my mom's country music on the radio was the background track to my childhood. One of the few country singers I actually liked was Johnny Cash. So Mike and Social D drew me in to punk with "Ring of Fire," and almost no one in the club knew who Johnny Cash was then, but I loved it. In the years since, Social Distortion became my favorite band, and I saw them several times in the small club years. Great interview.

[@jayclark7155]

What a Legend - glad you were able to share this conversation.

[@Skoora]

His song called Untitled on White Heat… is one of my absolute favorites. Such a great song to sing along with and it just has so much feeling to it. Also This Time Darlin’. Love practicing my country harmonies on that one.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I am curious to look up the songs to see what they sound like.

[@MS-ii1sv]

Through These Eyes is my favourite on that album. But you can't go wrong on White Light...That album is stacked.

[@mikepalmer2219]

This may be one of my favorite interviews. Thank you so much.

[@brendaivey]

Just saw Social D again and it was a celebration of so many things, Mike's health and return to the stage, the diversity of the fan base, the love of the music, and a chance to share it with so many people. It was amazing.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the most underrated frontman of the rock era?

[@christineml1476]

Ian Astbury of The Cult

[@petercena9497]

Arthur Lee - Love

[@freezer8530]

I'll nominate Brad Delp.

[@TheSlowoldman]

Mike would be right up there.... but my first choice would be Rik Emmett from Triumph. (boy those are different)

[@JimbobZ17]

Definitely Jack Russell Listen to the self titled album, songs like love is a lie , Get on Home , covers of Zeppelin songs. Jack has a great voice.

[@dylanblack3635]

I discoved Social Distortion about the same time that I first heard the Stray Cats, and given that I had been a bit of a heavy metal fanatic growing up, it was quite a change for me. I think it could easily be said that Social D may have pushed me out of my very narrow view of things and into listening to all types of music.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I love Stray Cats too. It’s great to appreciate any kind of music.

[@stevedawson8128]

Thank you sooooo much for getting this interview!!!!!! I've been a HUGE Social D fan for years! I was soooo glad to see you did this. He's such a humble dude. Thank you again!!!!

[@OSoU812]

Since I was a kid growing up in the 80's I have always rocked a Social D t-shirt in my collection of band t-shirts. If I had a dollar for every time someone had said something complimentary about the shirt or striked up a conversation about the band. I would be rich as hell. Thank you Mike Ness for being you.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha!

[@constipatedinsincity4424]

Back in the Saddle Again Naturally!

[@mheberling5939]

I first saw them live in 1990 with Gang Green during that tour. I’ve seen them several times after and bought all the records. I have to say, “hard times and nursery rhymes” is without a doubt the best Social Distortion record. Ya, old schoolers will disagree, but SD admittedly released their best record in 2012.

[@mycawk7171]

I agree. They just keep getting better with each album. My all time favorite is WLWHWT, but overall, that is their best album. You can see how Mike and the band have grown and matured with that one.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I need to give it a listen! Clearly, I’m behind most of you guys.

[@mheberling5939]

I agree, they get better with every release. They seem to enjoy the craft of making good tunes and it shows.

[@jason-hy8ci]

"Skate to Hell"

[@tonybologna239]

First of all @ProfessorOfRock I was a fan of you and your channel BEFORE this interview… but then you get the man who’s music and song writing changed my life and made me the musician and songwriter I am today on. You have a super fan for life. Thank you brother, I needed this one today. I appreciate you

[@scottrichardson1014]

Absolutely love this interview! Thanks !

[@marcsmith8561]

One of the few bands that don't have a bad song. So utterly underrated. This is coming from an extreme metalhead guy.

[@rumbletruck1]

This is, for me, one your best interviews and episodes ever. Great job! I loved that you show a snippet from Another State of Mind; that was a great piece of history/documentation about Mike. Well done!

[@SevenEternities]

Love it. Social D got me through high school and my 20s. Story of My Life and Ball and Chain got every weekend started… Social D reminds of nothing but good times.

[@garnerb350]

Big fan of Mike & SocD. Saw them at Myrtle Beach House of Blues in 04, during the show, somebody from the crowd threw beer at him/his sunburst les paul ...He stopped the show, look down at the guy, and threaten to kick his ass, and then have the crowd join in...you could hear a pin drop.... then went back to playing, I laughed and was so impressed. Live at the Roxy is a great live album, always in my rotation.

[@stephanbaxbaxter7971]

I grew up in Fullerton just a few years behind Mike. Before he did anything he had the swagger of a rock star. He has been the coolest dude in every room he ever walked into. Wishing him a speedy recovery. He has lots of living to still do.

[@JordanCrowderFilms]

I got hooked on them in the early 2000's in the Pop-Punk bubble. I was always a fan of both rock and country and instantly fell in love with them. So many bands I discovered around that time came and went, but I've been a life-long Social D fan. Great interview, thanks for making these.

[@RebelScum312]

Social Distortion! Mike Ness is an American legend & a real hero, thank you very much for this interview, just last week I did a deep dive back into SD & found a ton of unreleased songs on yt, nearly a whole album's worth from the White Light White Heat White Trash sessions, plus another truckload of acoustic studio & live versions & awesome covers like CCR's Up Around The Bend & The Clash - Death Or Glory

[@zakkjagneaux2600]

I was with my Marine Corps buddy one night in SoCal when he got the Skeleton Cocktail logo tattooed on his calf . Later that night in Honda Prelude with a crazy loud stereo he played Social D . I was listening to Highway 101 while cruising the boulevard and Oceanside . Been a fan since . Very underrated band on record and definitely live . They still have released stuff that blows me away , like Bakersfield and Hustle and Flow . Much like AC/DC , no need to change the formula , just keep driving ..

[@gordfoley4760]

Mike is one of the best song writers of all time and Social Distortion is my favorite band. Awesome interview!

[@robertlynde9964]

This was so good! Great interview!

[@megadethforlife84]

Great interview with an icon! Thank you so much for the videos you post! You rule dude!

[@JanetPhillips-qy3vq]

Thanks so much for sharing this awesome interview!❤️

[@timmytVA]

GREAT interview Prof. Heal up Mike. Looking forward to the new album and some killer rock shows.

[@johnurocks]

Loved the interview man! Mike Ness is the man.

[@stevenjacobsen4260]

Super cool, Social Distortion is my favorite band started listening at the sweet age of 16. I started a band when I was 25 called the Castratos and the first song I taught my band was bad luck. I learned it from the live in Orange County dvd, I could here the cords and would rewind and pause so I could see where his fingers were . This was pre you tube of course, I later learned after years of teaching my band social d covers, that my long lost cousin had married and had a kid with a close friend of the band. She didn’t even know who Social D was, she toured with them even had them over for dinner. One day she came to visit and I showed her a little demo I made and she said we sounded just like them, yah right ! She told me if I ever want tickets to a show just call her. So one day in Grand Junction Colorado I saw a flyer for Social Distortion. This was years later after seeing my cousin but I called her anyway, she told me she’d call back and I was skeptical then I get a call from her husband, Kirk was his name and he was really cool and asked how many tickets I wanted and I said 2 please 😂 he said that’s all, are you sure and I asked for vip or meet and greet but no buino. Anyway I got to see my favorite band in my home town with my band (that was playing mostly Social D covers) got tickets for free because of a long lost cousin that moved to the west coast. What a small world they say, thanks for the video, thanks for the tickets cus and especially thanks for the music Mike, maybe some day I’ll do another tribute band 😎🎸🤟🏻

[@misplacedhaole6726]

I went thru a horrible divorce in 1989. Just nasty. Way too young, and way too soon in the Navy. Social D, I already knew about from a friend, but the album Social Distortion by far changed my outlook on life. Divorced, bankrupt, and on my out of the military. 5 years prior I was homeless, doing drugs, and sitting my ass in jail. Couldn't believe that bad things had struck again. I got myself together, stayed in the military, and eventually retired after serving 22 years. I have 2 great kids, been married for 25 years. I too came from a broken home. My mom bailed on me and left me with my dad and stepmother. My mom and my stepmother were the same age and listened to rock music, and my dad liked country music. So I feel lucky to have had all that music in the house. Mike Ness is only a couple years older than me. His savior was music and storytelling. Mine was the military. Thank the gods for Social Distortion. Mahalo nui loa for Mike Ness and for you Professor for this interview.

[@devinbraun1852]

Thanks so much for this interview with Mike! I loved Social D back in the day and rediscovered his more recent solo art a few years ago. Great stuff. Love you Mike, many of us relate to you and your music.

[@jaimerobillard9037]

Love what you’re doing. It’s super nostalgic… its like what MTV originally was, but better.

[@RikkiVanHowle83]

Thanks for this interview, God Bless Mike Ness he’s gotten so many people through so much

[@Neridog]

Such a great interview, Prof. Nicely done! I've always loved Social D. Always so consistent and great. I saw Mike on the tour for his (excellent) first solo album back in 99 or so in Boston. He played Bad Luck solo and completely held the crowd. It was amazing. Such great, great music and such an inspiration.

[@justsumtriduuude]

I am from Fullerton and have been a Social Distortion since the very beginning. Their/his music still speaks to me.

[@rico4you]

Wow what a Back to the Past...and incredible in Person! 😊😊😊... Great video!

[@gh1cb2ab3]

YES!!!! I am so glad you did this interview. I have been a huge Social D fan since early high school. Thank you!

[@CrAck-MoNey]

I'm so happy you did this interview! Because you are the true Professor of Rock! I've loved Social D for so long!

[@liahlong8823]

I been down and out too that's why Mike Ness is such a hero of mine. My dad always played these records. As an adult, after my own addiction and several rock bottoms, I appreciate Mike and Social D even more. Great interview also. I'm a new viewer thanks to this interview and I'll be back.

[@jaybro6298]

Love that the dog is just chillen next to a punk rock legend!… I hope he’s doing well and on the road to recovery… Looking forward to seeing them again when he’s on the mend!

[@drb8786]

Awesome interview! Sitting here at the factory on break watching this keeps me motivated!

[@petewilson2314]

Great interview, loved the question about which 2 songs on a 45. Super job!

[@johnathansaegal3156]

That hypothetical "Double-A" 45 would have to have "Ball and Chain" on it. If I could have only one Social D song, it would be "Ball and Chain". That song hits me in all the gut-shot places where I have been in my past, and reminds me of those very things I have overcome.

[@darrenp1549]

Great interview! My most favorite band ever.

[@swiftdog3610]

Huge Social D fan! Great live band. Mike is a rock and roll treasure that doesn’t get enough props. Big influence on me as a guitar player and musician. Great interview. Wish him the best of luck with his cancer battle.

[@MrAllegiant1]

My favorite band ever. Spent my youth listening and my kids first concert. There will never be an imitation to this