Thursday, April 16
Mickey Finn’s

Gary Milholland, better known on stage as Mission Man, is exactly what his name suggests — a man on a mission. The 30-year-old, straight-edge hip hop master has been “kicking out raps” since 1992.  Mission Man has written more than 130 songs resonating with today’s youth, often dealing with relatable issues like losing his mother to cancer; basing one’s self-esteem on who you are, not what you look like; and delivering pizzas. Originally from Ohio, Mission Man sought out a full-time day job in Chicago, which he recently announced he was quitting in order to go on tour in support of his hip hop routine.
“I’ll be living the exciting life, including sleeping in my car, crashing at random friends’ and fans’ places and figuring out how to shower, eat and pay for gas on a daily basis,” Milholland said. “I’m actually very excited about it all, as I’ve done this on a smaller scale for 16 days.”
Mission Man kicks off his “Do What You Love” tour on Thursday, April 16, opening for the local Velvet Underground tribute band, the Falling Spikes. 9 p.m. $5. Mickey Finn’s, 602 Lagrange St. www.sonicbids.com/missionman.            —ER