Written by Mark Alewine

Currently, Michael Bravine works with Earth Fare as a bookkeeper in customer service, and can be found sitting in as a musician in area venues. He also plays drums Sunday mornings with the worship band at Knoxlife. However, Michael’s path has taken him thousands of miles across Europe and the Midwest to find a home in Knoxville

His first 11 years were spent in France where his parents were working as missionaries. Until his 20’s, Michael described himself as a “poster child”, living the way his parents had raised him. He had a passion for music and started playing drums as a full time musician, which led to a number of opportunities playing in bands on both independent and major labels. Michael’s bands toured the U.S. and Europe supporting groups like Death Cab for Cutie and At the Drive-In. However, it was during this time that Michael grew increasingly more involved in drugs and eventually found himself homeless.

After battling his addictions, Michael moved to Chicago to work with the ministry, Inner City Impact. He later joined the ministry, By the Hand Club for Kids, working a variety of jobs including team leader, first grade teacher, social worker, and mentor. While in Chicago, Michael met his wife Brianna at their church. The two will be celebrating their second anniversary in July.

Five years in Chicago, though, left Michael and Brianna looking for more community and a slower pace of life.

“We were not happy in Chicago,” Michael said.

This led them to Knoxville and eventually to Knoxlife. While driving through the old city, Michael joked with his wife they needed to buy an building, convert it to a coffee shop, and hold church services in the back. 30 minutes later, Michael said, they met Sarah Alsobrooks who introduced them to Remedy Coffee. The community and atmosphere immediately clicked for Michael and Brianna.

“We found a church that’s exactly what we wanted,” he said.