Michael McDonald

July 22, 2008

Opening Act: Jamie Holka Trio 

Superstar singer/songwriter Michael McDonald is readying a new album of classic soul-tinged ‘cover' songs, title, which will also include three new songs by the five-time Grammy-winner. The owner of one of the most distinctive voices in music history calls Soul Speak ‘a labor of love,' - one of those rare works of genuine inspiration by an artist whose two previous salutes, Motown (2003), and Motown Two, released in 2004, were both Top 15 Billboard Hits.
  
Only a multi-talented music presence like McDonald could even attempt such projects.  He's formed a lifelong relationship with much of the material, going back beyond his days as the key catalyst in transforming the legendary Doobie Brothers from a guitar-based band to a more melodic R&B-driven force.  Born in St.Louis in 1952, he rose to local prominence as a teenage keyboard player, guitarist and singer in local combos such as Mike and the Majestics, the Del Rays and an outfit called Blue. 

McDonald's early emulation of his idols soon matured into his own captivating musical style, even blending a textured mix of keyboard and other influences in his groundbreaking association with Steely Dan.  Rock fans soon came to recognize his trademark vocal delivery emblazoned across the grit and blue eyed soul of the legendary Doobie Brothers on hits such as "Takin' It To The Streets," and into his highly-successful solo career highlights of which include "Sweet Freedom," "On My Own," and the Grammy-award winning "Ya Mo Be There."
 
Michael continues to tour, and over the last two years has made special VIP front concert packages available to his fans, with funds garnered helping to support hunger relief efforts through the organization Artists Against Hunger and Poverty.

Visit Michael McDonald online at http://www.michaelmcdonald.com/