The Untold Story of Lightning & Thunder’s ‘Song Sung Blue’

The history of Lightning & Thunder is being celebrated with the release of the movie “Song Sung Blue,” set to premiere on Christmas Day. The film features acclaimed actors Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson portraying the Milwaukee couple Mike and Claire Sardina, who were renowned tribute performers honoring Neil Diamond and other iconic artists.

The Real Lightning & Thunder Story

Lightning & Thunder, formed by Mike and Claire Sardina, captivated audiences across Milwaukee and Chicago from 1989 to 2006. They became local favorites at various bars, festivals, and fairs, with notable performances at the Wisconsin State Fair and Summerfest.

Key Performances and Achievements

• Wisconsin State Fair: Site of their wedding in 1994.
• Summerfest 1995: They performed alongside Pearl Jam, where Eddie Vedder joined them for Neil Diamond’s “Forever in Blue Jeans.”
• 2005: Received the inaugural WAMI Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Area Music Industry.

Personal Challenges and Tragedies

The couple faced significant personal struggles. Mike, a Vietnam War veteran, fought battles with addiction but remained sober when he met Claire in 1987. Tragedy struck when Claire was severely injured in an accident in 1999, resulting in the amputation of her left leg below the knee.

Mike Sardina’s Health Issues

Mike Sardina dealt with chronic health issues, including coronary problems. In 2006, a fall led to life-threatening complications, and despite performing at a Madison Mallards game shortly before, he never regained consciousness after undergoing surgery. Mike passed away on July 27, 2006, at the age of 55.

Claire Sardina’s Current Life

Today, Claire Sardina continues to perform. She divides her time between Wisconsin and Arizona. Recently, she sang alongside Jackman at the Milwaukee premiere of “Song Sung Blue.” Upcoming performances include a show at Paulie’s Pub & Eatery on December 30.

The Biopic: How It All Came Together

The journey to a biographical film began with the documentary “Song Sung Blue,” directed by Greg Kohs. Kohs, enchanted by Lightning & Thunder’s performances in the early 1990s, dedicated time to document their lives. This eventually led to Craig Brewer, the writer and director, discovering the documentary in 2009 at a film festival. Brewer felt a deep connection to the story, which later inspired the feature film.

Notable Figures in the Film

Alongside Mike and Claire, several other prominent Milwaukee figures appear in the movie:

• Tom D’Amato: Promoter portrayed by Jim Belushi.
• Dave Watson: Mike Sardina’s dentist, played by Fisher Stevens.
• Claire’s children: Portrayed by Ella Anderson and Hudson Hensley.
• Mike’s daughter, Angelina: Played by King Princess.
• Mark Shurilla: A significant figure in Milwaukee music, portrayed by Michael Imperioli.

“Song Sung Blue” not only recounts the personal narrative of Mike and Claire Sardina but also highlights their enduring legacy in the Milwaukee music scene.