Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Clay.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
For more than 30 years, I’ve worked in entertainment and event production and co-founded the Texas Music Project, a music charity that brings the healing power of music to at-risk youth, children of fallen soldiers, and kids in hospitals across Texas.
texasmusicproject.org
Michaelclayproductions.com
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
From the Boardroom to Backstage: A Journey in Live Events and Community Service
I launched Michael Clay Productions in 2002 after years of working with top event companies across the country. I learned the business, built relationships, and worked alongside talented people. I saw a chance to blend entertainment, branding, and technology to raise the bar for live events—public or private, ticketed or free.
In live events, no two shows are ever the same, and having a plan B is essential. Weather, logistics, budgets, and labor are all moving targets. It’s like working on an airplane mid-flight—you can’t just pull over and think about it. You have to stay calm, find solutions, and manage expectations. As the pilot, you’re expected not only to fly the plane but to land it smoothly, on time, and in the right place. The essentials never change: preparation, teamwork, and experience.
Running my own company taught me that your name is only as good as your last show. Every job matters. Your reputation is built one event at a time, and you see the same people on the way up as you do on the way down. The old adage says, “Get the gig and you’ll get the players,” but attitude and integrity bring the right people to the party.
In 2003, I helped start the Texas Music Project (TMP), a nonprofit that brings the healing power of music to kids in hospitals, schools, and to families of fallen soldiers. Through our Music Heals and Song of Hope programs, children write songs, play instruments, and record their own music. Music heals from the inside out and it’s good medicine that can bring a smile.
In 2025, the Texas House of Representatives declared October 12th “Music Heals Day” in honor of TMP’s 23 years of service. It proved what can happen when passion, good intentions, and a plan come together.
Looking back, the event business and nonprofit work are parts of the same story. Both are about engaging and finding ways to connect with your audience.
As you know, we’re big fans of Michael Clay Productions LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
MCP is a network of professionals with over 30+ years of successfully producing and managing all aspects of corporate, special events, trade shows and concerts.
We invest time and creativity to every project to find the right solution for each job.
Please review our Services, look at case studies and call us for a quote to make your next event a overwhelming success !
What makes you happy?
Any and all guitars, writing songs, and playing with the band have always been at the top of the list. Getting paid to play is just icing on the cake. My brother’s a fine piano player, and it’s always a good time when we get to gig together.
Recently, my 9 year old granddaughter and I recorded her first song. Watching her pour her heart into it at such a young age was a full-circle moment for me. I love to see the passion she has for music and the opportunity to help her develop it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michaelclayproductions.com
- Instagram: @michaelclaytexas
- Facebook: michaelclay.texas
- LinkedIn: @michaelclayproductionsllc
