MIKAEL MAN

                                                                       MIKAEL

Lead Guitarist  Musician / Creative Composer / Arranger / Producer / Engineer

                                            **Studio Designs**

A Commitment to Excellence

Mikael is a professional and accomplished guitarist.   His love for music began at an early age when he received formal guitar training in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio.  Later, as a student at Howard University, he mastered his skills and talent, and was recognized by Walter “Clyde” Orange of the Commodores, and hence was asked to become a member of the legendary Commodores, and played as the lead guitarist from 1995-2005.  During his ten year tenure with the Commodores, Mikael was requested by Clyde to showcase his talents and write songs for the group.

While touring with the Commodores, Mikael shared a live stage with such performers as Mya, Silk, Glenn Lewis, Gladys Knight, Isaac Hayes, and a host of others.  Mikael appeared on the Lou Rawls Telethon with Stevie Wonder, Ashford & Simpson, and Brian McKnight.  On the international stage (including a tour of Japan), Mikael shared the stage with Boyz II Men, Diana Ross, and the Temptations.

Before working with the Commodores, Mikael collaborated with Frank Cornelius of the Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose.  The groups’ single, “Fat Bottom Girls,” was a regular hit on Black Entertainment Television (BET).  Always in good company, Mikael studied and collaborated with Walter “Junie” Morrison, original keyboardist and lead vocalist for the Ohio Players.

 Later, Mikael formed the male singing group, Shades of Gray, with Mikael as lead vocalist.  Shades of Gray was asked to opened for entertainers Peabo Bryson and R. Kelly.  After his association with Shades of Gray ended, Mikael then added reggae to his musical repertoire.  Some of Mikael’s reggae tunes (under his “Tuff Gong” label) received airplay in Jamaica from top Jamaican radio announcer, Barry G.  In the mid-1980’s, Mikael’s single, “It Must Be Nice,” made it to the top 20 in the Miami market and was featured on the hit television show, “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.”

 After a near fatal automobile accident, sustaining injuries to his neck, spine, and fingers; Mikael had surgery and worked hard to recover.  In 2007, he released his first solo album, “In Ya Pocket.” This  album showcased the never-ending timeline of a unique blend of jazz, rhythm, blues, and a touch of reggae by Mikael.  When asked what Mikael is doing lately? He is about to release his second solo album “Situations.”  Lastly, he spends time building recording studios and mentoring new artists to believe in themselves and practice good work ethics in the industry.