Michael C. Duguay Shares His Comeback Story On “One Million More”

For singer/songwriter Michael C. Duguay, the journey to release his sophomore album The Winter of Our Discotheque has not been a simple one by any means. Following a six year hiatus due to mental illness and homelessness, his struggle towards recovery and sobriety seemed impossible, and the idea returning to music a dead end.

But following a therapy session where Duguay was encouraged to formally write about his experience with poverty, addiction, and homelessness, he was inspired to challenge himself by returning to his songwriting roots.

Michael C. Duguay (Photo by Jamie Kronick)

His new single “One Million More” is the byproduct of his resurgence as the first song he penned his fall out with music. Taking the opening slot on his upcoming release, out Thursday, “One Million More” is a seven and a half minute exploration of his story, gradually building with elements of post-rock, shoegaze, and sturdy Americana twang.

His most powerful release to date, the new song is a triumphant and sparse piece that ebbs and flows alongside his story, transposing the unclear path of recovery into twinkling pianos, swelling trumpets, and tension-building percussion. While the length of the song may feel intimidating, it’s well worth the patience, roping the listener in with its cyclical and hypnotic foundation, and keeping them there with his lyrical storytelling abilities.

Featuring a minimalist 3D music video designed by Toronto filmmaker Adrienne McLaren, the cosmic style visual helps draw out of the ethereal and free-floating spirit of the song without the need for fancy production tricks.

The Winter of Our Discotheque is out this Thursday, September 24th.