Mike Portnoy

Biography

Michael Stephen "Mike" Portnoy is an American drummer primarily known as the former drummer, backing vocalist, and a co-founder of the progressive metal band Dream Theater. Known for his drumming prowess and technical skill, Portnoy has won 23 awards from the Modern Drummer magazine. He has co-produced the last six Dream Theater albums with guitarist John Petrucci, starting from Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory. From A Change of Seasons onwards, Portnoy had been writing a substantial amount of Dream Theater's lyrics. He is the second youngest person (after Neil Peart) to be inducted into the Modern Drummer's Hall of Fame (at 37 years of age). On September 8, 2010, it was announced that Portnoy had left Dream Theater. Portnoy cited conflicting interests as the reason behind his departure. On February 3, 2011, Portnoy announced that he has started a new project with Symphony X singer Russell Allen and guitarist Mike Orlando. Also he is involved in various projects with Neal Morse.

Known For

Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage

as Self

Dream Theater: Metropolis 2000 - Scenes From New York

as Himself - Drums

Dream Theater: Live at Budokan

as Himself - Drums

Dream Theater: Score - 20th Anniversary World Tour

as Himself - Drums

G3: Live in Tokyo

as Drums

Dream Theater: Images And Words - Live In Tokyo

as Himself - Drums

Dream Theater: Chaos in Motion

as Himself - Drums

Liquid Tension Experiment: Live In LA

as Himself - Drums

Dream Theater: The Spirit Carries On

as Himself

Flying Colors: Live in Europe

as Self - Drums