Mike Olson, known to many as “McDuck,” has carved out a unique space in both the music and tech worlds. Whether it’s through his trumpet solos with Lake Street Dive or his work navigating the intersection of open source and business, Olson’s influence is both broad and deep. His journey is one of passion, adaptability, and creativity—qualities that continue to inspire fans, fellow musicians, and tech enthusiasts alike.

From his early days co-founding Lake Street Dive to his more recent pursuits in the tech and open-source communities, Mike Olson’s career has been anything but predictable. His story isn’t just about talent—it’s about growth, reinvention, and staying true to your roots while exploring new territory. Whether you're a music lover or someone curious about the business of open-source software, there’s something in Olson’s journey that speaks to a wide range of interests.

So, if you're wondering who Mike Olson really is, how he made his mark, and where he’s headed next, you're in the right place. Let’s dive into his background, his contributions, and the impact he continues to have across multiple fields.

• Arnel Pineda

Table of Contents

• Biography of Mike Olson
• Personal Details and Background
• Mike Olson and Lake Street Dive
• A Unique Musical Style
• Life After Lake Street Dive
• Mike Olson in the Tech and Open-Source World
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Mike Olson

Mike Olson, often referred to by his nickname “McDuck,” is a multi-talented musician, composer, and tech-savvy entrepreneur. Born with a passion for music, he became a founding member of the indie band Lake Street Dive in 2004. As both a guitarist and trumpeter, Olson played a crucial role in shaping the band’s signature sound—a blend of pop, jazz, and R&B. His departure from the group in May 2021 marked the end of a 16-year journey, but certainly not the end of his creative pursuits.

Beyond music, Olson has also made a name for himself in the tech world. With a background in engineering and a strong interest in open-source software, he has explored how to monetize open-source projects while maintaining their integrity and accessibility. Based in Berkeley and with over 500+ connections on LinkedIn, Olson continues to be a respected voice in both music and tech circles.

Personal Details and Background

Mike Olson and Lake Street Dive

Lake Street Dive started as a group of friends experimenting with music during their time at the New England Conservatory of Music. The founding members included Mike Olson, Rachael Price, and others. Olson’s role as a trumpeter and guitarist was essential in developing the band’s early sound, which quickly gained attention for its genre-blending style.

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Over the years, the band evolved, but Olson remained a constant presence. His trumpet solos became a signature element of their live shows and recordings. In 2021, Olson announced his departure, which was a major moment for fans and the music industry alike. While he was leaving the band, he made it clear that he still supported his bandmates and wished them all the best.

A Unique Musical Style

What made Mike Olson stand out as a musician was his ability to blend different genres seamlessly. He wasn’t just a jazz trumpeter or a pop guitarist—he was both and more. His classical training gave him a strong foundation, while his self-taught approach allowed him to experiment with a wide variety of musical styles and techniques.

Some of the musical styles Olson has explored include:

• Jazz improvisation
• Pop songwriting
• R&B rhythms
• Classical arrangements

His versatility is one reason Lake Street Dive’s music resonated with such a broad audience. He wasn’t afraid to try something new, which kept the band’s sound fresh and exciting over the years.

Life After Lake Street Dive

After leaving Lake Street Dive, Mike Olson didn’t disappear from the music scene—he simply shifted his focus. While details about his new projects are still emerging, many fans are keeping an eye out for what he does next. His passion for music hasn’t faded, and his diverse background suggests he could take on a variety of creative roles moving forward.

Some possibilities for Olson’s next steps include:

1. Collaborating with other musicians and artists
2. Exploring solo work or smaller ensemble projects
3. Returning to the tech world and working on music-related software or platforms

His departure from Lake Street Dive was a big moment, but it’s clear that his journey is far from over. In fact, it might be just the beginning of a new chapter.

Mike Olson in the Tech and Open-Source World

Outside of music, Olson has a strong background in engineering and business. He’s particularly interested in how open-source software can be monetized without compromising its core values. This is a growing concern in the tech world, and Olson’s insights into the matter have made him a respected figure in niche tech communities.

Some of the areas Olson has explored include:

• How to fund open-source projects sustainably
• Contract development for tech startups
• Business strategies for independent creators and developers

For those interested in the intersection of creativity and commerce, Olson’s work offers valuable lessons. You can learn more about the business side of open-source development here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Mike Olson leave Lake Street Dive?

Mike Olson announced his departure from Lake Street Dive in May 2021 after 16 years with the band. While he didn’t go into great detail about the reasons, he emphasized that it was a personal decision and that he remained supportive of his former bandmates. He wanted to explore new creative opportunities and spend more time on other interests, including his work in tech and open-source projects.

What instruments does Mike Olson play?

Mike Olson is a multi-instrumentalist who plays both the trumpet and guitar. He was best known for his trumpet solos with Lake Street Dive, which became a defining part of the band’s sound. His guitar work also contributed to the group’s evolving musical style over the years.

Is Mike Olson still making music?

Yes, Mike Olson is still involved in music, though he’s no longer with Lake Street Dive. He’s a self-taught and classically trained composer, and he continues to explore different musical styles and projects. His diverse background and love for experimentation suggest that he’ll continue to contribute to the music world in new and interesting ways.

For more on Mike Olson’s journey and creative evolution, you can check out his profile here.