ABOUT

Sean’s musical journey began in a household filled with music. His father was an accomplished piano player, his mother was a passionate music lover, his sister became a phenomenal musician, and his brother played snare drum for the Old Guard in the military. Growing up in that environment, surrounded by creativity from an early age, music became a natural part of his life.

The moment that changed everything came when he heard AC/DC’s "Hells Bells" and later Randy Rhoads’ legendary guitar work on Ozzy Osbourne’s "Over the Mountain." Those songs sparked a passion that would lead him down the path of becoming a guitarist. He never learned the exact secrets behind Rhoads’ iconic solo. Sean believes that keeping some mysteries alive provides endless inspiration and keeps every musician striving to grow.

Before fully embracing guitar, Sean explored multiple instruments, beginning with keyboards in an effort to follow in his father’s footsteps. He also played xylophone and trumpet, experiences that helped him develop a deeper understanding of musical theory, harmony, and arrangement. That broader musical background helped shape his approach to performance and songwriting—not simply as an instrument for riffs and solos, but as a powerful tool for creating complete musical statements.

For Sean, the guitar remains the ultimate instrument because of its versatility and emotional connection. Whether creating a powerful rock anthem or experimenting with different styles, he believes that even three simple guitar chords can change a person’s day. His ongoing exploration of different genres—even incorporating country guitar—reflects his belief that musicians should always continue learning and expanding their creative horizons.

A lifelong player with a practical approach to gear, Sean values instruments with character and history. His prized Custom Shop Jackson represents a 30-year dream fulfilled, while other favorites include an Ibanez hollow-body discovered in a pawn shop and a Yamaha Pacifica rescued from the garbage. For Sean, great music comes from the player—not the price tag.

Through his work with KANE and Apocalyptic Lovers, Sean has built a growing body of work that reflects both his love of classic hard rock and his commitment to modern songwriting. As a guitarist and songwriter, he continues to create recordings distinguished by memorable melodies, expressive guitar work, and powerful arrangements. Whether developing new material for his own projects or collaborating with other artists, Sean remains driven by the pursuit of songs and performances that leave a lasting impression.

Away from music, Sean enjoys life in the Arizona desert, where hiking, nature, and the occasional encounter with rattlesnakes and scorpions provide a unique backdrop to his creative world. He also supports his fiancée’s home bakery and embraces the simple joys of life.

Driven by passion, creativity, and a lifelong love of rock music, Sean P. Magee continues to prove that great guitar playing is about more than technical ability—it is about emotion, storytelling, and connecting with listeners. Whether writing unforgettable hooks, crafting soaring guitar melodies, or delivering powerful riffs, Sean P. Magee remains committed to creating music that stands the test of time. Rooted in the traditions of classic hard rock yet always looking forward, he continues creating music defined by passion, authenticity, and songs that connect long after the final note fades.

Sean Magee is a guitarist and songwriter whose playing combines the power and precision of classic rock with a modern melodic edge. As the driving creative force behind KANE and the lead guitarist, primary songwriter, and founding member of Apocalyptic Lovers, he has forged a signature style built on unforgettable hooks, expressive melodies, and riffs that carry both intensity and emotion. His ability to balance technical skill with feel allows him to move effortlessly between blazing leads, atmospheric textures, and powerful rhythms—always serving the song while leaving a distinct musical fingerprint.

SEAN MAGEE

Photo of Sean Magee
Photo of Sean Magee
Sean Magee singing at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee singing at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee revving up the crowd at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee revving up the crowd at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee at the Whisky A Go Go  - phot credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee at the Whisky A Go Go  - phot credit Joe Schaeffer
Sean Magee shredding on guitar
Sean Magee shredding on guitar
Rob and Sean at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer
Rob and Sean at the Whisky A Go Go - photo credit Joe Schaeffer

Often praised for his expressive phrasing, rich tone, and ability to blend melody with fire, Sean’s playing reflects the influence of some of rock’s most iconic musicians. Guitarists such as George Lynch, Randy Rhoads, and Paul Gilbert helped shape his approach, while bands including Dokken, Ratt, Scorpions, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Foo Fighters, Rob Zombie, Stone Sour, and Steel Panther have all contributed to his musical evolution. His style bridges the melodic sophistication of arena rock with the power and attitude of heavy metal, creating a sound that feels both timeless and uniquely his own.

A product of the legendary Youngstown–Cleveland–Pittsburgh rock scene, Sean emerged during an era when live music was driven by musicianship, songwriting, and the power of the guitar. Alongside longtime collaborator and vocalist Rob Kane, Sean helped establish Love and War, a band that became part of the region’s hard rock community during the 1980s and 1990s.

Decades later, that creative chemistry continued through Apocalyptic Lovers, the next chapter of the band originally known as Love and War. Carrying forward the same passion for melodic, guitar-driven hard rock, Sean continued as a driving force behind the band’s signature identity. Under the Apocalyptic Lovers name, the band released their album Redemption Volume I, featuring Sean’s powerful melodic guitar work and songwriting contributions. The album was mixed by legendary producer Michael Wagener, whose work helped shape the sound of some of rock and metal’s most influential recordings. Sean’s writing and playing capture the emotion and intensity of classic melodic metal while bringing fresh energy to a new generation of rock fans.

The riffs may come from yesterday. The fire burns today!