Mike Ortega of Lyric House on the Language of Music

And not getting lost in translation

Mike is currently creative sync for advertising and brands at Lyric House. Other stints include Warner Music and Bunim Murray.

We spent two minutes with Mike to learn more about his background, his creative inspirations and recent work he’s admired. 

Mike, tell us …

Where you grew up and where you live now.

Depending on who you ask, you’ll hear that I’m from either Glendale or Highland Park. I’m actually from both. I spent parts of my childhood in both cities. I’m fully in Glendale now.

Your earliest musical memory.

Music has played an integral role in my life, but the earliest memories became nightmares. The sound of music blasting—disco, salsa or oldies—on Saturday at the crack of dawn meant that mom wanted to clean the house that day.

Your favorite bands/musicians today.

I’m currently spinning Wyatt Flores, and Josh Meloy. If I’m not listening to country then there is a good chance that I’m still listening to Charli XCX’s “Brat” or Kaytranada’s “Timeless.”

One of your favorite projects you’ve ever worked on.

Facebook’s “El Mundo Real.” It allowed me to tap into my Latin roots and deliver a product that was authentic to the times. 

A recent project you’re proud of.

A Google Maps spot that we landed with 72andSunny. It helped me understand that great things take time, and the right amount of luck.

One thing about how the music world is evolving that you’re excited about.

I’m excited to hear that certain companies are taking a stand against the use of AI-generated music. Music is innately human. 

Someone else’s work, in music or beyond, that you admired lately.

It’s hard to ignore what Chappell Roan is doing. The success wasn’t overnight, so I admire the hard work and dedication. 

A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.

Have you seen The Bear? If you haven’t, I suggest you take a look. You’ll understand what it takes to be great by the time you finish the first season. The amount of hard work and sacrifice by Carmy and those around the kitchen are admirable—but you’ll have to see what I’m talking about. 

An artist you admire outside the world of music.

Shohei Ohtani is considered a master of the art of baseball. As an Angeleno, I still can’t believe that I get to see Shohei in Dodger blue. If you live in L.A. and want to witness an artist at work while surrounded by 50,000 others, I suggest you make your way out to the Ravine at least once in the next 10 years. 

Your favorite fictional character.

Brock from Pokémon. My brother and I used to run around the apartment singing the theme song while pretending to be Ash and Brock.

How musicians should approach working with brands.

Music is a language that has taken many years for some to master. There is no guarantee the brand will have someone that can speak the language. So patience and understanding are key. 

How brands should approach working with musicians.

Similar to what I mentioned above, I believe that brands should also approach artists with patience. Again, the language of music is one that takes years of practice. 

A mentor who helped you navigate the industry.

Although I’ve been fortunate to work under some amazing people, I can’t say that I’ve ever had a mentor. I should work on that.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in the music business.

I’d probably be in digital media marketing. I dabbled in the space while holding a few internships in college.