Michael English is known as the gentleman of country music; always up for a late night session and provides one of the best dancing shows in the industry. With an infectious smile and an approachable personality, Michael proves one of the most popular stars in the scene.
Raised in Castledermot, Co. Kildare, Michael lived in a musical home with his dad, Pat, playing in a local ceili band.
It seems that his father had a big influence in his career, as it was he who introduced his son to performing at a young age.
“I’ve been performing since I was 11. First of all at a local level; where my dad would take me to local venues to play. I started performing professionally when I was 17 after a chance meeting with Henry McMahon of The Mainliners Showband. Henry wrote my first single, ‘The Nearest To Perfect’ and it all started from there,” Michael explained.
Growing up in a musical house also allowed him to be inspired by the biggest stars that there are. “There are lots of people who inspire me in the music industry. When I was growing up I was a huge fan of everyone from Margo to Merle Haggard; Andy Williams to Floyd Cramer,” he said.
Since then, he has become very popular in the country music scene, in particular with the younger generation; thanks to catchy hits like ‘Dance All Night’ and ‘Friday At The Dance.’ He admits that he has not written songs with the aim of pleasing the younger audiences, however it certainly has.
“I write a lot of my own material because I think it’s important to have both your own sound and your own songs that people can identify you with. I don’t tend to aim my songs at a particular age group but there are more and more young people coming to the shows and that gives great hope for country music in general for the future which is really great to see,” he said.
Often being described by fans as ‘the gentleman of country music,’ he goes the extra mile to entertain. In fact, after some shows he grabs the accordion and goes out for a sing song and a session late into the night; or should I say early morning. There’s no party like a Michael English party – or so I’m told! He believes that it’s just all about giving back to the people who allow him to do what he has always wanted to do.
“I love everything about the business and count myself very lucky to do something that I love. If that means meeting people and singing a few songs at a particular session or after a show then I see that as a small appreciation to those who come out night after night to see our show.
“I do enjoy the odd session here and there though too! I’m used to the road and actually enjoy travelling to and from shows. I do try to keep fit when I’m off and try to keep a good balance in general,” he explained.
You can find Michael on Facebook, Twitter and on his website at www.michaelenglish.ie