In 1996 Mick McConnell's career changed and sent him on an unforgettable journey as a member of one of the UK's leading rock bands.

After the rather quick departure of Alan Silson in 1996, Mick was asked to help the band out on a few live shows (Which he had done in the past) and also record the Christmas album, "Light A Candle" which he duly did, and before he could catch his breath he was introduced as the band's New Lead Guitarist.

"At the time it felt a little strange and uncertain, but I never felt awkward because the fans quickly accepted me".

Mick clearly brought a new dimension to the band, skillfully marrying his customary American style guitar playing with the established Smokie sound. He also stayed true to the legacy left behind by Alan Silson, where it was needed.

Self-taught on a cheap Woolworths guitar, by the age of 15 Mick was already establishing a reputation for himself on the local Leeds Blues Circuit.

Mick left for his first European tour at the age of 19. It was here that he truly earned his stripes as a professional musician, gigging 28 nights a month on US Army Bases, playing several sets into the early hours.

The upward trajectory of Mick's career hit came to a shuddering halt during a brief, ill-fated stint in the US, after which Mick formed a new band and returned to the familiar US Army Bases once more. However, fate took another turn for the worse and a traffic accident in Sicily left Mick with a broken shoulder and a broken left hand.

"I genuinely felt that my guitar playing days were over. I was seriously scared".

Still sporting a heavy cast, Mick was presented with the opportunity to join German rockers, The Richard Head Band. Now living in Germany, Mick was truly living the dream, at one point supporting the all-conquering Bon Jovi. Mick was getting a taste for the big stage!

"I have fond memories of the Richard Head band, but I was burning the candle at both ends and needed out". It was that realisation that would force Mick back to the UK once again.

The story of Mick's time as guitar tech for Smokie is well documented, but even stability and a steady wage couldn't keep Mick from moving on yet again. He passed the entrance exam to study music in California but a lack of funds scuppered this endeavour and before long, Mick was back where he started, playing covers again.

Finally, in 1996, the call came from Smokie's manager.

It would be the Nashville album that in many ways allowed Mick the opportunity to show Smokie fans what he could offer in the future. Working with Producer Barry Beckett and hearing Barry's Muscle Shoals stories would also re-ignite Mick's love affair with America.

Having gained the experience of recording several Smokie albums, Mick had begun to hone his skills as a songwriter, penning several tracks for the Take A Minute album.

Mick often states that his time with Smokie makes him feel truly blessed. 2026 marks Micks' 30th Anniversary with the band.
"Am I surprised that we are still going? Not really, I think as long as the fans continue to want to hear those songs then why not, but thirty years in the same band is the real surprise".

Mick is also very busy outside of Smokie.
In 2024, Mick rolled out his new band Mick McConnell & Blue Thunder, who play on the UK Blues curcuit. 
He has quickly, made a name for himself and continues to grow his popularity. At the end of 2026 Mick embarks on a UK Tour that will see him play some of the best Blues venues that the UK has to offer.

Mick has also started to record a new solo album that will hopefully be released to co-inside with his UK Tour. 
(Dates can be found on Mick's own website)