Singer And Songwriter Michael Alexander Releases His New Album May 21st
We recently caught up with gifted singer and songwriter Michael Alexander about his latest album to be released on May 21st, who some of his influences were growing up — and his plans for the rest of the year, now that live music is making a comeback. Here is what he had to say:
Hi Michael! First of all, it’s awesome catching up with you and hearing about your new projects. How has everything been going for you during and after the pandemic?
It’s been an insane time for everyone, but as of now I am good. Coming out the other side a little plumper, but I have been very lucky through it all. I know some people have had a really devastating time and my heart goes out to them.
I understand your last project came to a halt when Covid hit. Did you have to change your plans around?
Yes, my second album “A Warning of Light” should have been out a year ago. I was releasing every song as a single. Covid hit the week before I was meant to shoot the music video for my unreleased song “I Want U” so I had to scrap that whole video. Though with proper testing I did get to shoot my favorite video ever “Stress Dreams” where I got to play myself and the character of the Evil Hypnotist! You have to find ways to keep it safe, fun, and fresh!
The album comes out on May 21st and will also be available on vinyl, which is awesome — what were some of your inspirations behind this project?
I am so happy it’s finally going to be out on streaming as a cohesive body of work! “I Want U” will get to see the light of day. Yes, the vinyl is something I’m over the moon about. I’m a huge music collector, so to have my own vinyl is something that’s right out of my dreams! They ship June 6th.
The album deals with themes of being in love with someone who doesn’t love you back, how to move on, things to help you get over it, and how to find yourself again.
You have an amazing voice and talent. Who were some of your influences growing up?
Thank you! When I was young my Mom loved Cher and Barbra Streisand and my Dad loved Bruce Springsteen. Growing up I really fell in love with the big RnB voices. Mariah Carey is my #1! Then Luther Vandross, Toni Braxton, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, so many. I also gain a lot of inspiration from artists like Stevie Nicks and Lisa Loeb.
Tell us about your recent taping for the “Music for the Planet” concert for Global Green and why it is so important for you to get behind something like that?
I was honored when I was asked to perform. I sang a new song called “Show Up!” It’s about how just a little bit of effort can have a big impact. So, if singing my little song even gets one person familiarized with Global Green or to learn about the issues our planet is facing, that makes it all worth it. Who knows what what that one person is going to accomplish?
What are your plans for the rest of the year? Any word of some possible tour dates or shows?
I’m excited for the live music world to come back. I plan to spend the rest of this year finishing writing and recording my third project, and getting some music videos filmed. Then, in the next year I have some cool live ideas. But in the meantime I’m always open to put on a local show in LA or take a random bar gig.
What have you learned the most about the music business as an independent artist doing everything mostly on your own?
It is not easy. There is so much that goes into it and no rule book to tell you how to do it. Sometimes you put your all into something and nothing happens. Sometimes you do something last second and it blows up! So, what I’ve learned is, you just have to keep going. You never know what’s around the corner.
What would be your best advice for others trying to get into the music business to be a successful singer/songwriter?
When I was 18 I got advice from one of my idols, Lisa Loeb. I asked her “what advice do you have for someone who wants to be a singer?” She replied with “Sing”.
A simple answer, but back then I didn’t understand the enormity that it held. I now take it as if you want to be a singer, find songs and a place to sing. You want to be a songwriter? Start writing songs. They might not be fantastic at first but that’s how you grow. You want music videos? Think of the ideas and find a director and shoot. Create your own opportunities. Rarely is someone going to hand you something. If you really love it and really want to do it, you will make it happen.
For more info check out:
Web store for vinyl album:
Michael Alexander Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7e4tjblEESDQuTUUDKr58D?si=kT4osBBLTZWC-u-p7VvgnA&dl_branch=1
Follow Michael on Instagram:
