I spent ten years playing classical piano, and that was what led to keyboards and eventually to production and to Linkin Park.

In 2009 Shinoda received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters (L. It was here that he made the acquaintance of DJ and turntablist Joseph Hahn who along with Delson's college-mate Dave "Phoenix" Farrell was soon added to Xero's line-up. "
Also in 2008 Mike partnered up with DC Shoes again on a second DC Remix Series project.

Shinoda's voice is baritone. He also provides artwork production and mixing for both projects. He is best known as the rapper principal songwriter keyboardist rhythm guitarist and one of the two vocalists of the rock band Linkin Park.