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THIN Lizzy and AC/DC were the two bands that hooked Mick Griffin into the world of music.
"I love Thin Lizzy. I saw them at a free concert at the Opera House in 1978," he said.
"(AC/DC) really inspired me to get into music. I saw them on Countdown in 1975 and didn't think my life would be the same."
Griffin is celebrating his 50th birthday this weekend with a two-day music festival at the Musicman Megastore in Williamson Street.
Celebrations began Friday night with bands playing from 5pm to late and will continue tonight from 5pm.
But having done everything from reviews, cover designs and door work for bands in Bendigo over the years, there is no doubt that sharing a beer with Mick will unearth some great stories.
Mick started working with bands in the early 1980s and has seen the digital transition hit music scenes.
"It's completely different with the way technology has gone," he said.
"Back in the day people were more inclined to go out and see an untried band.
"(Today) it's a bit more of a challenge, people like the familiar and we have the internet and other distractions that keep us in the house."
In terms of music, Mick said the sounds hasn't changed that much.
"I've always been in rock n roll myself but there's still so many genres," he said.
"There still the same style of music and same sounds that there were 30 years ago, just with younger musicians."
Of all the local bands that Mick has seen over the years, one still stands out.
"In days gone by there was a really popular (local) band called Darkcide," he said.
"They were really popular through 1981 to 1987. (Darkcide's) Glenn Braybrook was responsible for bringing AC/DC to Castlemaine in 1976.
"Darkcide toured with Cold Chisel, Jimmy Barnes solo, Motorhead and The Angels so they were memorable."
Mick Griffin's 50th Birthday Bash continues tonight at the Musicman Megastore from 5pm. Entry by donation with money going to the bands.