Michael Speaks
July 1, 2010 by Las Vegas Black Image Magazine
Filed under Community
Vocalist makes the most of his opportunities
One of the most well-regarded vocalists on the Las Vegas Strip, Michael Speaks had his love of music nurtured from an early age.
Originally from Benton Harbor, Mich., his desire to sing was initially inspired by his brother, who began playing piano at the age of 3. The son of a preacher, Speaks’ first experience performing for audiences was in the gospel choir. However, after a short time — and at a young age — he decided to plant his own flag as an entertainer.
“When I was 10 years old, I started a group called Christian Brothers,” Speak s said. “We were singing in churches all over the city, and one day my voice changed and the rest of the members just stopped performing when I was singing this song called ‘Sign Me Up.’ They couldn’t believe how good I was … and they had me sing that song all the time.”
Young Michael soon took his act on the road, performing in talent shows in Indiana and across the South. He subsequently moved to New York City, where he drew crowds by singing in subway stations. “When I arrived in New York, I saw these guys singing on the street,” he said. “People were stopping to listen to the singers and dropping money in their buckets. So, I thought to myself, ‘This must be how you get discovered.’ I went down to 34th Street in front of Macy’s department store and started doing the same thing. I didn’t have a bucket — I just had a hat, and took it off to gather my tips. The more money that was put into my hat, the louder I sang. I made between $50 and $200 a day just singing on the street.”
One winning performance, at the legendary Apollo Theater, caught the attention of executives at East West Records. The label signed Speaks to a six-figure record deal. “I cut my first single, ‘Whatever You Need,’ which debuted at number 49 on the Billboard Top 200 music chart,” he said. “I had my record deal for three years, and worked with Missy Elliott and Babyface. Shortly after, I decided I wanted to go back to my gospel roots.”
It was around this time that a friend called Speaks to say that a band, Next Movement, needed a singer to sit in for some performances at Bally’s. The opportunity to take the stage in the world’s entertainment capital was irresistible; Speaks arrived in Las Vegas in 1997, and it wasn’t long before the band invited him to become a permanent member.
In the years since, Speaks has formed his own band, Hypnotic. He also performs regularly with Mocha — a group comprised of former Next Movement members. “I think the Strip is more open to African-American performers now,” Speaks said. “Vegas has taken us for granted for a while, but now I think they realize that we are a necessity to the glam and entertainment of Vegas.”
In August, Speaks will release a new album titled “On the Move Again,” featuring the single “What Would You Do.” He describes his music as “universal soul,” which he says is based on showcasing positive themes.
“I was born with a spirit of joy,” Speaks said, “and I tell everyone that if you seek the kingdom of heaven first in your life, everything else will grow.”
Hi there Michael you’ve really inspired me with your singing & glad you making use of the talent GOD has given you. My name is Alistair Paulus I live in South Africa(Cape Town) I also love singing & use to sing in church my thinking as you, going back to my routes because that was where it all started thanks again Michael for seting the exaple GOD Bless
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