Michael Houser

Born(January 6, 1962 - August 10, 2002)in Boone, North Carolina, Houser became a founding member of Widespread Panic in 1982 while attending the University of Georgia with John Bell. His distinctive playing style was featured on the band's first seven studio albums and is responsible for the band's moniker: "an honest tune with a lingering lead". Panic's large lineup released Houser from rythym guitar duties, and allowed him to play lead melodies that lingered behind the dominant vocal melodies. Houser's nickname of "Panic" (earned due to his once-frequent panic attacks) became the basis for the band's name. Because of back problems, Mike played seated, using two foot pedals, often simultaneously. Many consider him a master of the volume pedal for his skilled incorporation of its use in conjunction with the other members of Panic.