Artist Spotlight: Michael King & The Icebreakers

Michael King & The Icebreakers just snagged the top spot at the Trinity River Blues Society’s North Texas Blues Challenge in the Band Category! This talented crew is heading to Memphis this January to compete in the International Blues Challenge (IBC) and represent our amazing North Texas scene! Catch them live at the festival on Saturday from 3:15–4:15 PM.

About Michael King & The Icebreakers

Michael King has been a staple in the Dallas/Fort Worth music scene for more than 20 years as a drummer, but in recent years he’s stepped forward as a guitarist, singer, and bandleader. Inspired by the legendary Albert Collins, Michael formed The Icebreakers a year and a half ago to honor Collins’ legacy while building his own sound.

With influences ranging from Stevie Ray Vaughan and Buddy Guy to B.B. King and Gary Moore, Michael blends intensity, soul, and authenticity in every note. He writes music rooted in real life experiences—moments of joy, challenge, and everything in between—and his playing carries the kind of phrasing that speaks even when the singing stops.

The Icebreakers deliver both original music and powerful renditions of Collins’ catalog, with Michael working to capture the Iceman’s unmistakable tone. He’s managed to re-create it without alternate tunings or capos, staying true while still carving out his own identity as a player.

Michael recently released his first EP, Come With Me, and is already preparing to head back into the studio to record his first full-length album for broader release.

Whether you’re a longtime blues fan or new to the genre, Michael King & The Icebreakers promise a performance that keeps the spirit of the blues alive while pushing it forward.

Don’t miss Michael King & The Icebreakers at this year’s Denton Blues Festival. This is a free, family-friendly event—so bring your lawn chairs, your crew, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend celebrating the legacy of the blues.