Michael O. | “Japa” – Single Review
Michael O. is a singer, songwriter, performer and producer who harnesses his personal and cultural influences to create a powerful sound all his own.
Michael O. Background
Born on January 8th, 1990 in New York City and raised in Portland, Maine, Michael’s upbringing fused American, African American, and Nigerian culture to create the multi-faceted artist he is today.
In 2008, Michael was accepted to Dartmouth, where he double majored in Global Health and History. There he joined an acapella singing group, The Dartmouth Aires, and led them to a second place finish on NBC’s “The Sing Off”. With over 6.5 million viewers weekly, Michael wowed audiences and was even dubbed “incredible” and “timeless” by Ben Folds of Ben Folds Five, and “a freaking superstar” by Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman.
After graduating, Michael immediately moved to Los Angeles and released his first EP, “In the Beginning”, in 2013. Within 24 hours of its official release, “In the Beginning” jumped to the top 5 on the iTunes R&B charts, and remained the best-selling EP in Northern New England for that entire year.
In 2015, Michael appeared in the major motion picture, Pitch Perfect 2, as the lead singer of the singing group in the film, The Singboks, soloing on the song “Anywhere You Want It”. He was also featured on the soundtrack, which won an American Music Award for best soundtrack. Both the film and soundtrack were #1 in May of 2015.
Michael has performed all over the world, including sold-out shows at Merrill Auditorium, The Lincoln Center, and in 2014, sang for President Obama at the White House.
About
Through his music, Michael aims to build connections that break down ethnic, geographic, and cultural boundaries through his exploration of himself, his heritage, and of the world around him. He is inspired by artists who can grow and evolve in an ever-changing world.
A powerhouse performer in his right, Michael aims to expand his reach, both in content and in form, creating a unique entertainment experience that brings people together through the power of his music and entertainment. Michael’s canvas is a stage, and he aims to paint the image that, “as people, we are more alike than we are different”.
Review
Michael O. just released a new track, “Japa,” that was co-produced by The Grammy’s CEO Harvey Mason Jr. The new track is really well done. The instrumentals are infectious and energetic. The production is also on point. They do a great job at showing off the vocals of the track, all while never losing the energy of it. Definitely a standout this week. Make sure to add this one to your playlists.
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