Mike Varney

Mike Varney is an American hard rock record producer, publisher and impresario. Varney founded record label Shrapnel Records, and discovered a number of guitarists.

Some of his most famous artist were e.g. Yngwie Malmsteen, young Richie Kotzen, Paul Gilbert, Joey Tafolla, Tony MacAlpine, Greg Howe, Marty Friedman, Michael Lee Firkins, Vinnie Moore and the legendary Jason Becker.

Varney also produced a number of acts, including metal act W.A.S.P., Vicious Rumours, Steeler and Racer X.

During the late 80's Shrapnel Records was focused on guitar orientated Hard Rock and Metal. Many young guitar virtuosos got in contact with Varney through his Spotlight Column in Guitar World Magazine. This article featured many so-called hometown heroes which have sent demos to Varney to show off their skills. Later on some of them got the chance to make a record for Shrapnel.