music

mu·sic /ˈmyo͞ozik/

1. vocal or instrumental sounds combined in such a way as to produce beauty in the form of harmony and emotion.

2. Music is not what you do. It’s what you are.

I have been blessed by a range of talented musicians, beginning with my own 7 siblings, Early influences all came from the sounds of Motown and gospel music. Maceo Parker was my first saxophonist that I tried to emulate when listening to the sounds of James Brown and the JB’s. And I’m NOT just a sax player: I dabble in many other instruments ranging from woodwinds, brass, keys, strings, and percussion.

Music changed the trajectory of my life. As an 11 year old, I joined my older brother’s band at a concert simply to fill in for their missing trumpet player. I was on stage looking out into a sea of what felt like 5000 people (with adult perspective, it was probably only 60 people in the room!!). Every neighborhood bully and people I looked up to were there. I played Pass The Peas as my first song, with my brother tearing up the trombone solo. The applause gave me the confidence to perform the rest of the night with conviction. And I nailed it!

The respect I received from people who never seemed to respect me before kept me from a lot of @ss whoopings; I was known and respected for being the “Little Sax Man”. Although I was a nerdy kid, suddenly I was cool. And that helped my confidence. Yet, I remained humble, in every walk of life.

I can name dozens of entertainers in the surrounding area whose skills I admire. They put in the work required to perform at a high level. They will push me from good to great, and I appreciate that. I love that we support one another. Hire me for your event, and I WILL put in the work to entertain your crowd with an energetic, authentic, great, yet humble, performance.

“Michael B is uniquely gifted.” I overheard someone say this, and couldn’t agree more.