Steppenwolf’s 1968 hit Born to Be Wild is one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. It was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the new category for singles in 2018. But what makes the song’s history all the more incredible is that guitarist Michael Monarch was 18 when it was recorded.
The following year he lent his licks to Janis Joplin on her solo record I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! albeit in uncredited fashion. At the time, and as a self-taught guitarist, he probably didn’t realize his unique style’s influence.
