It may have seemed like a lofty goal for an independent rapper to get Lil Scrappy and Iam of Soul Mafia on his first single. Not for Mike Petrone, whose breakthrough record "Crank It" is heating up the streets of his native Atlanta on the strength of spitfire verses and an insanely catchy hook.

The independent release of the epic LP "The Last Hundred Yards" is just the most recent accomplishment from this multifaceted individual who served two tours in Iraq, was wounded twice, and received his Purple Heart, all before the age of 22. The remarkable story of how Petrone received his Purple Heart is detailed in his music video for his song "Baghdad" (www.mikepetronemusic.com) which was filmed overseas during Petrone's second tour in Iraq.

Authenticity is a prevalent theme from this artist who chose to skip a rap moniker and use his government name. The buzz about Mike Petrone is hard to contain. Already, he has been featured on Fox News, Fort Benning TV, VH1, and various other media outlets. His debut single "Crank It" is additionally featured on To the Fallen Records Hip Hop's Volume 2. He has performed in countless venues nation wide and always dazzles his audience with energetic, electrifying live shows.

Petrone is frank and humble about his talent and his place in the rap landscape, "I've always been a fan of hip-hop first, and an artist second. Even if I quit rapping today, I'll still be a fan tomorrow!" Perhaps risking his safety everyday and watching comrade's fall has undeniably inspired Petrone's modesty, maturity, and passion for life…or maybe he was just born to "CRANK IT!!!"
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