Michael McCowin
Michael was born in Dallas, Texas. He grew up in a musical family. He enjoyed playing the guitar and saxophone but noticed that his voice was also his instrument. He has been blessed to be able to sing in an array of singing styles from traditional to urban gospel, soul, and pop. Michael started his singing career at the age of nine with a family group named the Gospel Five. His melodic tenor voice quickly positioned him as one of the lead singers.
Michael’s first recorded album was with the Mighty Supreme Voices (formerly the Gospel Five) in 1979. His voice gained the attention of Joe Ligon, founder of the Mighty Clouds of Joy (MCOJ), and, shortly thereafter, he was asked to join the MCOJ. Michael departed from the Mighty Supreme Voices in 1989 and joined the MCOJ in 1990. Shortly after joining MCOJ, Michael recorded with them on their Grammy Award–winning CD entitled Pray for Me. During his career with the MCOJ, he further demonstrated his talents by co-writing songs such as “I’m Ready” and “Hold On,” which gained recognition in urban gospel. He remained with the MCOJ for 26 years, appearing on international & US tours, at the White House, and on the stage with greats such as Al Green, Patti LaBelle, Shirley Caesar, Paul Simon, Ray Charles, James Brown, and Peabo Bryson.
Michael took a three-year hiatus; but his heart continued to sing, and he needed to follow his calling.
Artist Website: http://michaelmccowinmusic.com
About the Album
The album Shine was recorded at Sweetwater Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Michael McCowin’s vocal quality and deep, dynamic tones are truly a beautiful gift. His abilities come into focus in his remake of Sam Cooke’s song, “A Change Is Gonna Come”, and in the soulful spirit of “Shine.” Under Phil Naish‘s superb musical direction and with the support of the Sweetwater staff, we have created a uniquely inspirational album.
The song “Shine” was written by Kevin Wood specifically for Michael McCowin after a chance meeting or divine intervention. They have formed a unique musical partnership and have begun work on their next CD/EP collaboration Am I. We have enjoyed working with Sweetwater Studios, and we look forward to our next project.
THE SONGS
- Shine
- I’m Sorry
- A Change Is Gonna Come
- Bring It On Home
- When Midnight Comes
- I’ll Follow You
- My Last Day
- Will I Ever Love Again
- Blue Shimmering Sea
- You Have the Power
Performed by Michael McCowin
Produced by Phil Naish
Recorded at Sweetwater Studios
Music and Lyrics by KS Wood
Published by KSWood Music Publishing / Pearl and Gold Songs
Cover Photo by Erick Anderson