Mike Shinoda

Mike Shinoda, a musician, singer, rapper, songwriter, and record producer, is prominently known for co-founding the rock band Linkin Park. With Linkin Park, Shinoda has delved into the technical aspects of recording, contributing to the instrumental and lyrical composition of the band's songs. He has even shared the role of lead vocalist with Chester Bennington on several occasions. Additionally, Shinoda has been involved in the artistic aspects of the band's imagery, including album artwork and stage production art.

Shinoda's musical versatility extends beyond Linkin Park. He established a hip-hop-driven side project called Fort Minor in 2004, which released its debut album, "The Rising Tied," in 2005. The album was met with commercial success, with its single "Where'd You Go" peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning Ringtone of the Year at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards. Beyond his band affiliations, Shinoda has also produced tracks and albums for artists such as Lupe Fiasco, Styles of Beyond, and the X-Ecutioners. His solo work includes the emotionally charged album "Post Traumatic," released in 2018 following the death of Chester Bennington.

Outside of music, Shinoda's talents extend to art and graphic design, with several of his pieces being featured in the Japanese American National Museum. He has also collaborated on shoe designs with DC Shoes and founded a college scholarship at the Art Center College of Design for illustration and graphic design students. He is also a co-founder of Machine Shop Ventures, a venture capital fund that invests in consumer-focused startups globally. As a third-generation Japanese American, Shinoda has received several awards for his contributions to music and the arts, including the Japanese American National Museum's Award of Excellence in 2006 and an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the Art Center College of Design in 2009.