James Michael Peterik, born on November 11, 1950, in Berwyn, Illinois, is an acclaimed American musician and songwriter. He is renowned for founding the rock band Survivor and for his role as vocalist and guitarist in The Ides of March. Peterik co-wrote the iconic anthem "Eye of the Tiger," the theme song for the 1982 film Rocky III, which became a defining single for Survivor, spending six weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy Award and an Oscar nomination.

Peterik's music career began in 1964 when he co-founded The Ides of March with his schoolmates. The band achieved success with hits like "You Wouldn't Listen" and "Vehicle," the latter becoming a major hit in 1970. In the 1970s, Peterik also wrote songs for the jazz-rock band Chase and released a solo album, "Don't Fight the Feeling."

In 1978, Peterik formed Survivor with guitarist Frankie Sullivan. The band gained fame with hits like "The Search Is Over," "High On You," and "I Can't Hold Back." Peterik also co-wrote songs for other artists, including 38 Special and Sammy Hagar. His collaboration with 38 Special resulted in several platinum hits.

In addition to his work with Survivor and The Ides of March, Peterik is involved in various musical projects, including Pride of Lions and Jim Peterik's Lifeforce. He also mentors young talent through his World Stage project, which features live shows and recordings with artists he has collaborated with.

Beyond music, Peterik co-authored "Songwriting For Dummies" and released his autobiography, "Through The Eye Of The Tiger," in 2014. He fulfilled a lifelong dream by co-writing "That's Why God Made The Radio" for The Beach Boys in 2012. Peterik continues to be an influential figure in the music industry, known for his contributions to melodic rock and his enduring passion for songwriting and performance.