Music Coast caught up with Michael of The Holdup at Reggae Rise Up Oregon 2026 in Redmond, Oregon for a conversation about the BUYING TIME era, revisiting fan favorites, evolving the live sound, and what it really takes to build an authentic artist identity.
Michael breaks down why BUYING TIME is rolling out in parts instead of dropping all at once, how high technical standards shaped the release plan, and why songs like “Back Then” and “Girls Love Toast” were worth revisiting for the fans.
We also get into:
• Why the current live show feels more guitar-driven and live-band focused
• Mixing reggae, pop, hip-hop, rock, and laid-back songwriting into one singular identity
• Talking about heavy things without making the music feel heavy
• Why the songs that best represent The Holdup’s next chapter are still coming
• The balance between authenticity, business, branding, and critical self-awareness
• Advice for independent artists trying to build something real
BUYING TIME: PT. 1 OF 4 and BUYING TIME: PT. 2 OF 4 are available now.
🎤 Interview by Music Coast
📍 Reggae Rise Up Oregon 2026 — Deschutes County Fairgrounds, Redmond, Oregon
