In 1989, Social Distortion signed a deal with Epic Records. In 1999, he released his first solo album, Cheating at Solitaire. In 2003, Social Distortion recorded a live DVD called Live in Orange County at the House of Blues in Anaheim, California. In February 2006, Mike broke his wrist while skateboarding in Las Vegas. He continued to perform vocals on the tour. In 2008, Ness and his band were joined on stage by Bruce Springsteen at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey for the encore. On April 16, 2009 he joined Springsteen and the E Street Band on stage at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. On May 18, 2009 Ness and Social Distortion played a benefit show at the House of Blues in Anaheim, California called “Rock to Recovery”. He currently lives in Newport Beach, California with his wife Christine and two sons.