Take Five With Michael Tinholme

Meet Michael Tinholme: Michael Tinholme was discovered by Tom Fowler, a legendary bassist/producer for Ray Charles. They've been working together and recording non-stop with some of today's most talented artists and musicians. Achieving continual airplay since his debut, Michael's emotionally charged singing style is finding an enthusiastic audience all over the world.

Instrument(s):

Vocals, piano/keyboards, guitar, drums.

Teachers and/or influences?

Mrs. Winter, back in the fifth grade for seeing something in me. I learned a lot from Scatman Crothers. I've had many great teachers including Chuck Flores, John Wackerman, Tom Brechtlein, John Nevello, Chris Ho and David Kates. Tom Fowler and Dennis Moody continue to teach me everyday.

I knew I wanted to be a musician when...

It always seemed to be. I can't ever remember a time when I wasn't doing music.

Your sound and approach to music: That's for others to define. I'm just doing what I love to do and very happy to have the support of so many talented musicians and friends.

Your dream band:

I would love to sing with Tony Bennett. He is still the jazz singer on the scene, ain't nobody that can top him. Love the way Quincy Jones makes music. Diana Krall is real good and Joni Mitchell would be unbelievable. There's so many others, Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Wynton Marsalis, Marcus Miller, Herb Albert, Burt Bacharach, Arturo Sandoval, Mozart—not too ambitious.

Road story: Your best or worst experience:

I'll let you know.

Your favorite recording in your discography and why?

Autumn in New York. It conveys my love for that city. The city that shows the rest of the world that it's possible to get along.

The first Jazz album I bought was:

The first jazz album I can remember is the Louis and Ella Duets (played non-stop in the house). I remember buying Ray Charles Sings Country album with my mom.

What do you think is the most important thing you are contributing musically?

That's for others to say.

Did you know...

Just that I'm very grateful. Not too many people get a single chance to do what they want to do in life, let alone a second chance. Not only do I appreciate the great music we've all made together but the friendships I've made with all the cats which I hope will last for many years to come.

CDs you are listening to now:

Herbie Hancock, Gershwin's World;

John Pizzarelli;

Diana Krall;

Wilco;

Joni Mitchell.

Desert Island picks:

Joni MitchellBlue;

John Coltrane, Songs for Lovers;

Louis Armstrong, Louis and Ella Duets;

David Bowie, Ziggy Stardust;

The Beatles, Abbey Road..

How would you describe the state of jazz today?

Jazz is the brave art form. It moves everything forward. As long as you have people willing to practice their craft until their hands bleed just for the chance to convey what they need to get out of themselves to others, jazz will always influence.

What are some of the essential requirements to keep jazz alive and growing?

Pay homage to the masters. You can't break new ground until you've covered the old.

What is in the near future?

Back in the studio with Mike Miller, Albert Wing and the Fowler brothers. Finishing up the Christmas CD that I was suppose to finish last year. Then in November back in the studio to begin work on a project that I've dreamed about doing for most of my life. I'm happy to say that everyone is very excited about it and there's going to be a lot of great artists as guests.

By Day:

None.

If I weren't a jazz musician, I would be a:

Lost and depressing individual to be around.