Michael was born June 26^th, 1985 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He developed an early love for country music through association with family and friends in a small band. Tommy Mckenzie and Bruce Thomas, his grandfather and father, started it all with “The Cannonball Express.” Michael began playing the drums for the family band as a substitute for the fulltime member. “The Cannonball Express” played good ‘ol country music and was very popular in the local community. You could say the Thomas’ and Mckenzie’s are just a country music family.

As Michael grew, he began to play other instruments and today plays bass and guitar in addition to the drums and singing lead vocals. When he’s not busy writing, playing and singing he enjoys a variety of outdoor sports with his local buddies. “The Poutin’ House” is still a favorite spot where “the guys” gather to hangout, but more than ever, Michael enjoys grabbing a guitar and picking for any crowd nearby.

The Poutin’ House Gang and other friends have shared some memorable times together and these memories served as inspiration for some lyrics to songs on his first CD release.

In July of 2007, Michael decided to give Nashville a try. Through contact with Carl East, who was a good friend of Michael’s grandfather, he received help to pursue his lifelong dream. For his gracious help, Michael is extremely grateful to Carl. During his visit to Nashville, he met a producer by the name of Bob McGilpin who helped Michael produce his music and became a good friend in the process. Since then, Michael has taken several trips to Nashville writing and recording songs for his first CD which was released in June 2008.

Michael would also like to thank the many friends who provided support during the many trips to Nashville, taking the long trip with him and offering support in any way they could.

Michael has had many people that have inspired him to pursue his dream in becoming a country music artist. George Strait now and has always been one of his favorites. Michael’s passion for music is evident is his work. His love for traditional and classic country music shows in the songs he has written and recorded. He hopes that one day he can bring that traditional sound back, but in a new way that will move and inspire both current and future generations, just as the country artists he looks up to have done for years.
 

Michael is a very talented country music singer and songwriter available for private engagements. Please use the contact link above for booking and scheduled appearance information.