How would you describe your music to any person who may have never heard it before?
Michael: My music is a fusion of various genres, drawing from my rich experiences in the industry. It's a mix of R&B, funk, and soulful melodies that aim to evoke deep emotions and connect with listeners on a personal level.
What are your musical influences?
M: I've been influenced by a wide range of artists, from Gospel legends like James Cleveland to iconic figures like Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Curtis Mayfield, Luther Vandross, and Smokey Robinson. Their dedication to music and ability to tell powerful stories through their songs have had a profound impact on my own musical journey.
What are your musical inspirations?
M: Life itself is my greatest inspiration. Love, relationships, and the human experience provide the emotional canvas for my music. I aim to capture these moments and share them with my audience.
If given the chance, what musician(s) would you like to collaborate with?
M: I've been fortunate to collaborate with many talented artists throughout my career, but if I had to choose someone I haven't worked with yet, it would be Stevie Wonder. His musical genius and ability to transcend genres would make for a remarkable collaboration.
What’s your new song about, if I may ask?
M: The song "Nothing Can Come Between Us," a heartfelt Sade cover featuring my wife, Aneessa, is a tribute to the enduring strength of love. It celebrates the unbreakable bond between two people, even in the face of obstacles and challenges. It's a testament to the power of love to overcome adversity and unite hearts.
What’s something you hope people take away from the new song?
M: With our Sade cover and the new music in general, my wife, Aneessa, and I hope that people can feel the depth of our connection and love through our music. We want our songs to resonate emotionally with listeners and evoke feelings of love, unity, and resilience.
Which songs on the album were the most fun to write, and which were the most challenging to write?
M: Within my upcoming album, crafting tracks like "Those Words" was an absolute delight. These songs allowed me to delve into the depths of our love story, offering a beautiful journey alongside my wife, Aneessa. However, on the flip side, compositions like "Band-Aid for a Broken Heart" delved into personal narratives, recounting experiences with friends who had faced narcissistic abuse, a struggle I too had encountered. The intricacies of these songs posed unique creative challenges, pushing us to explore uncharted artistic territories.
Do you have any favourite tracks on the new album? M: While it's difficult to choose favourites among our own creations, "Those Words" stands out as one of the most special tracks on the album. I wrote it as a deeply personal expression of love for my wife, and every lyric reflects our unique journey together. It's a song that holds a profound meaning for us and, we hope, for others who have experienced the beauty of love and partnership.
What’s the new album about?
M: The new album is a musical journey that encapsulates a wide range of emotions and experiences. It explores themes of love, unity, resilience, and the power of connection. Each song offers listeners a chance to connect on a personal level and find their own stories within the music. It's an album that reflects the beauty and complexity of life and love.
"Those Words" holds a special place in my heart and on the stage because it's my heartfelt declaration of love to my amazing wife, Aneessa. She truly is the best! And performing timeless classics like "You Send Me" by Sam Cooke is an absolute joy. It's a song that transcends generations, and it happens to be both mine and Aneesa's favourite.
If you could perform a show this very second anywhere in the world, where would it be?
M: Performing at the iconic Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles and Madison Square Garden in New York City would be a dream come true. The energy and history of that venue are unparalleled, and it would be an incredible experience to share my music there.
What do you currently have planned for the remainder of the year?
M: The remainder of the year holds exciting projects, including the release of new music and collaborations with fellow artists. I'll also be engaging with fans through performances and online platforms. Stay tuned for more updates!
Thanks for the time today, Michael. Is there anything else you may want to add before you go?
M: I'd like to express my gratitude to my fans for their unwavering support throughout my career. Music is a universal language, and it's the connection with my audience that keeps me inspired. Keep the love for music alive, and I look forward to sharing more with you in the future!
Check out more from Michael here: Website