From Backstage to Inner Stage – Michelle Bakker’s Journey Through ‘Mantra & Mayhem’

After more than two decades living between Los Angeles,
London, and New Zealand, international music manager and creative producer Michelle Bakker – New Zealand born with Samoan descent – is stepping into a new chapter of her story, one that blends the chaos of the music industry with the calm of inner transformation.

Michelle’s upcoming biography, Mantra & Mayhem – written by Evana Patterson (@wordsbyevana) – traces her extraordinary journey through the highs and lows of a global music career, revealing how the mayhem of tour life became the mantra that shaped her next evolution.

“I’ve spent years helping artists find their voice,” Michelle shares. “Now it’s time to share my own – to tell the story of what it really takes to stay grounded while chasing big creative dreams.”

As a manager, Michelle has worked with artists including Jaz Coleman (UK), No Wyld (NZ/NY), Greg Johnson (NZ/Los Angeles), Jackie Bristow (NZ/Nashville), and Dead Poet Society (Boston) – developing talent across continents and helping musicians turn creative potential into sustainable careers.

Now, through her new venture Transformational Coaching with Michelle Bakker, she’s guiding other creatives to do the same. Combining her deep understanding of artist development with her passion for wellness, Michelle brings a holistic approach to coaching – integrating her experience as a Life Purpose Coach, wellness advocate, and certified yoga instructor.

“Creativity and wellbeing are deeply connected,” she explains. “When artists align their inner world with their outer work, they don’t just create better – they become better. My mission is to help creatives shine their light bright.”

Michelle’s work has been featured in Remix Magazine, The New Zealand Herald, The Big Idea, Muzic.NZ, and The 13th Floor, where her story continues to inspire artists and creatives alike.

Returning home to New Zealand after more than twenty years abroad, Michelle now splits her time between creative projects, writing, and coaching, continuing to embody that unique balance of retro rock meets zen – the essence of Mantra & Mayhem.