Michael McArthur
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Michael McArthur

Lakeland, Florida, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2015 | SELF

Lakeland, Florida, United States | SELF
Established on Jan, 2015
Solo Pop Singer/Songwriter

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"Listen: Michael McArthur // Run Around"

To describe this song we have to use the words delicious, smooth, rich and elegant. ‘Run Around’ by Florida born singer songwriter, Michael McArthur, is laden with soulful sensuality and dusted with laid back ease. McArthur describes himself as writing with honest soul and that his songs are a sight glass into his life. In this we get the first glimpse of his voyage through.

The initial strata to this song begins with a swayingly strummed guitar, delicate piano trills, haunting sustained organ notes and vibrato sugar glazed vocals. All are initially gentle and controlled. You can audibly feel a hint of eagerness within that there is more to come: an explosion of musicality expected. Percussive clicks on the drum rim and shakers are all modestly played before the intensity of the chorus is added.

The instrumental drop is bold and bursts through, luxurious and decadent. The graceful authentic hammond is blissful and aaahhhhh that guitar! This is where the track crescendos and whirls around melodious distorted guitar. To end, with the last of the musical crumbs, there are falsetto note highs, calming drum clicks, whispered breathy vocals and those climbing piano trills.

It is important to note that this was recorded live in a studio in North Hollywood, pure and raw. There is nothing mass produced about this. ‘Run Around’ is unique in its essence delivered with style and intensity, having all the right layers in all the right places.

Go on treat yourself. Michael McArthur has something to say and yes, yes we do want to hear it - whenthegramophonerings.com


"Singer-Songwriter Michael McArthur's Debut Album 'Magnolia' Out Now!"

Pop/Soul Singer-Songwriter Michael McArthur announced his debut album Magnolia for release on April 7th, 2015. Fans who pre-order the album on iTunes will receive a free and immediate download of his single “Run Around” off the album. Bridging sounds and styles similar to Maroon 5 and John Mayer, the Florida native’s soulful voice cuts through his emotionally-inspired melodies that aims to grab the audience by the heart. With his emotional lyrics and sensual sound, Michael McArthur delivers a new take on blues, soul, pop, country, folk, and even hip-hop. Here is what Michael had to say about the album:

“With Magnolia, I wanted to create the most honest listening experience I could. No fluff, no distraction, just raw emotion and soul. We used all real instruments and organic sound, and recorded most of it live as a band to capture plenty of the human element. I felt this approach was best suited for the lyrics. These songs are the sight glass to my life. A glimpse to the most personal parts of me. It’s not easy being so honest though. You’ve got to cut yourself open for the world to see and hope everybody’s ok with it. ” – Michael McArthur
Last year, Michael McArthur caught the attention of GRAMMY Award-winning Producer, David Bianco (Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Lucinda Williams, Citizen Cope) and teamed up with the singer to produce his debut full-length album, Magnolia. The album was produced, mixed, and engineered by Conrad Johnson (Inertia Sound Studio), David Bianco (Dave’s Room), and Michael McArthur.

McArthur will be kicking off the release of Magnolia with an album release show at The Polk Theatre in Lakeland, FL on Friday, April 10, 2015. Follow Michael McArthur on social media to keep updated on announcements and new music out soon!

More About Michael McArthur:
MICHAEL MCARTHUR is a soulful pop singer/songwriter from Lakeland, Florida. Born into a musical family, it was this rich musical culture that helped mold Michael into the musician he is today. “I can remember being a kid and like a stone completely mesmerized by my Uncle John’s folky fingerpicking, it was magic.” Michael says, “and I remember visiting my dad on the weekends, running to his closet where he kept the guitar, pulling it out, and asking him to play.”

Born with music in his blood, Michael McArthur writes with raw, gut-wrenching emotion, delivering a new take on blues, soul, pop, country, folk, and even hip-hop. Bridging sounds and styles similar to Maroon 5 and John Mayer, Michael’s soulful voice cuts through his emotionally-inspired melodies that aims to grab the audience by the heart.

In 2012, Michael McArthur released his debut EP, The Year of You and Me (Matt Wilbur, The Vanguard Room), setting the songwriter on the road to showcase his work. 2013 proved to be a successful year when Michael self-produced his sophomore EP, The Home Recordings, a fully acoustic EP showcasing McArthur’s compelling tone and raw sound. The same year, Michael McArthur was coined the winner of the 2013 Florida GRAMMY Showcase. Following a performance at The Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles for Guitar Center’s Singer/Songwriter Contest Finals, Michael McArthur caught the attention of GRAMMY Award-winning Producer, David Bianco (Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Lucinda Williams, Citizen Cope). Soon after, Michael headed to California to record his debut album, Magnolia.

Magnolia is set for release on April 7, 2015. The album was produced, mixed, and engineered by Conrad Johnson (Inertia Sound Studio), David Bianco (Dave’s Room), and Michael McArthur. Follow Michael McArthur on social media for updates and new music coming soon!

To Keep Up With Michael McArthur Online:

MichaelMcArthurMusic.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube - stagerightsecrets.com


"Lakeland Native to Open for The Beach Boys and Release New Album"

Every artist dreams of opening for one of their musical icons. This May, that dream will become a reality for Michael McArthur.

McArthur, a Lakeland native, will be the opening act for The Beach Boys when they play Tiger Town on May 2. The concert is sponsored by The Rotary Clubs of Lakeland in an effort to raise money for a new playground at Lake Parker.

“As far as I know Mike Love has listened to my music,” McArthur said. “And that’s a dream.”

McArthur has grown up singing and has been dreaming of performing on stage since high school.

“I was a singer first,” McArthur said. “I’ve always had big dreams of being on stage so I started playing guitar in high school to sing my own stuff. [I’ve] been writing songs since.”

Aside from The Beach Boys, McArthur has been inspired by other soulful and pop artists. These include Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and James Taylor.

“I’ve been inspired by so many people,” McArthur said. “All it takes is one song. If it moves me and if it grabs me by the soul then I’m interested and I want to know more.”

McArthur sings mostly pop, soul, and singer/songwriter music. He will release his new album Magnolia at the Polk Theatre. This album will have a soulful feel and McArthur hopes that listeners enjoy the rhythm and instrumentation.

The record is an eclectic mix of genres, from country to folk and pop to rock. McArthur wanted the album to be something that listeners could “bop their heads to”.

“Soulful vocals, catchy melodies, raw and organic instrumentation, and rhythms that’ll make your head bob,” McArthur said.

McArthur is excited about his release show on April 10.

“Being a native Lakelander I’ve had this recurring daydream about performing at the Polk,” McArthur said. “It’s a beautiful place with a magical history and I can’t think of a better venue for the release show.”

For anyone aspiring to be a singer or musician, McArthur says to be ambitious, but don’t forget that your heart may be broken.

“Do it with reckless abandon,” McArthur said. “You get your heart shattered then put back together over and over again. As long as you trust the road and never stop moving down it you’ll be just fine.”

Tickets for his performance with The Beach Boys can be found on Tickets.com. McArthur’s album release show tickets are being sold at Black and Brew coffee shop for $10. To listen to some of his music, check out his website MichaelMcArthurMusic.com. - The Southern


"Michael McArthur "Magnolia" - Single Premiere"

Florida-bred soul-pop singer Michael McArthur is set to release his debut LP Magnolia next month, but you can stream the title track right here at Exclaim! before the album arrives.

Using his soulful voice to deliver honest, gritty emotion through his music, McArthur's sound encompasses influences from genres across the board. Borrowing inspiration from blues, soul, pop, country, folk and even hip-hop influences, his voice provides the perfect bridge between the selection of sounds.

"With Magnolia, I wanted to create the most honest listening experience I could," he said in a statement about the new album. "No fluff, no distraction, just raw emotion and soul. We used all real instruments and organic sound, and recorded most of it live as a band to capture plenty of the human element. I felt this approach was best suited for the lyrics. These songs are the sight glass to my life. A glimpse to the most personal parts of me. It's not easy being so honest though. You've got to cut yourself open for the world to see and hope everybody's ok with it."

"Magnolia" itself blends bluesy guitars with McArthur's falsetto croons, resulting in a sultry, swoon-inducing, soul-pop single. "We've all been addicted to someone. Like a drug," said McArthur, speaking about the song. "'Magnolia' is that person who gets you the highest high and the lowest low. The poison and the antidote."

The album of the same name arrives on April 7, but you can listen to the title tune below right now.

You can pre-order the album on iTunes here. - exclaim.ca


"Michael McArthur Releases New Single "Magnolia""

Take Adam Levine, Ed Sheeran and John Mayer, mix them together along with an intense beard, and you get Michael McArthur!

This Pop/Soul singer-songwriter from Lakeland, Florida is true quality. Not only does he write all the raw, emotion-rich lyrics for his songs, but he also manages to bridge the sounds of pop, country, folk and other genres. All this goes to generating a unique sound to match his exceptional voice.

McArthur gave us all a taste of his new music with the premiere of his single “Magnolia,” the title track off of his debut album set for release on April 7th, 2015. The single is already receiving high praise:

“Magnolia’ itself blends bluesy guitars with McArthur’s falsetto croons, resulting in a sultry, swoon-inducing, soul-pop single” (Sarah Murphy, Exclaim!) - confrontmagazine.com


"Acoustic Video Premiere: Michael McArthur Ft. Kristy Scott with "Clocks""

He's got one of those voices that is soulful, that when you listen to him, you can't just narrow him down to one singer, there's more than one that he relates to and is influenced by. That singer and songwriter is Michael McArthur, who has recently released his debut album, Magnolia. The album was produced by GRAMMY Award-winning David Bianco, known for his work with Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Lucinda Williams, among renowned other. In an exclusive video premiere, Michael is releasing his second single from Magnolia, "Clocks."

Referencing the song's meaning, Michael states that "'Clocks' is all about the wait and how easy it is to be tormented by time. Sitting by the phone, waiting for a call that doesn't come, but somehow you'd rather wait than let go.'" I think many readers can relate to this longing and want, but having no other choice but to wait. Michael is a gifted storyteller and songwriter in conveying how one thinks and feels when they're longing for someone or something, or when they're in or out of love. In correlation with the premiere, Michael chatted with us about his memories of music, how music defines him, and a pretty special moment that defined one of his songs, and is still a nice and recent memory for him.

You grew up surrounded by music. What was your earliest memory with music, and how has that transcended with you and your work over the years?

Michael: My earliest memories of music are listening and singing along to Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' album and Stevie Wonder's 'Natural Wonder'. The Stevie album is a live album. I was drawn to the rawness in Stevie's voice. Now if I get stuck in the mud when I'm writing, I ask myself what would Michael and Stevie do? What would James Taylor do? So, I go back and listen to the old stuff and get unstuck.

How has music changed you emotionally, mentally, and physically?

Michael: Music hasn't changed me. It's made me. Music has taken the lead for as long as I can remember, so really I'd go completely off course without it. I'd be changed then.

Have you had any special moments in your life that have influenced your lyrics and/or music?

Michael: I met a girl at a cafe once. We spent just about every day together after that. Eventually she'd leave town for a while, and it was the first time we were away from each other for that long. She left in the morning and that evening I wrote Truly, Madly, Freely. You hear artists talk about how some songs take days, and some seem to write themselves in hours. I hadn't experienced the latter until Truly, Madly, Freely came along.

What was the process like working with David Bianco; were you apprehensive to work with such a well-renowned producer?

Michael: Working with Dave was special. His studio (Dave's Room) is in North Hollywood, and when I pulled up he came out to open the gate and greet me. We walked through the courtyard, passed the bougainvilleas, and in to the studio, where he introduced me to the players who were already setting up. Within 15 minutes we were recording live as band. It was kind of like I learned to swim in the deep end with no floaties. And really the first time that I worked with people of that caliber. I wasn't apprehensive at all. Scared as hell, but not apprehensive.

*Fun Questions*

Who was your first concert and do you have a favorite one you've attended?

Michael: John Mayer was my first real show, but my favorite concert to date has to be James Taylor. The man's still got all of it.

Who or what five albums would you not want to live without?

Michael:

Michael Jackson
Stevie Wonder
James Taylor
John Mayer
Ray Charles

Current book you're reading?

Michael: This is awful, but I haven't read a book in a long time. In school, I was the Cliffsnotes guy, and sort of never recovered.

What's your all-time favorite movie?

Michael: Almost as much as I enjoy listening to music, I love watching movies. I couldn't possibly pick a favorite. Although for a while it was Braveheart.

Follow and connect: Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/YouTube - axs.com


"Premiere: Stream Michael McArthur's 'Magnolia' Before Its Release"

Michael McArthur is gearing up to release his debut full-length album, Magnolia, tomorrow and we're excited to give you a sneak peek by premiering a stream of the eight-song collection the day before release. A mesh between Maroon 5 and John Mayer, the Floridian singer-songwriter pairs his soulful voice with seductive acoustic guitar riffs, keys and gentle percussion. Listen to Magnolia in its entirety above.

"As an artist, you go through a few essential formative phases, and Magnolia is special for that reason," McArthur explains. "Through writing the songs and the recording process, I identified exactly what I'm supposed to do, sound-wise. It's not an arrival, but a redirect, and Magnolia's got the wheel."

Magnolia is slated for an April 7 release and is available for pre-order through iTunes. - purevolume.com


"Michael McArthur's Intimate Lightning Nights"

I'm always jealous of vocalists with impressive falsettos. As someone whose vocal range runs halfway between a baritone and a bass, people that can hit those high notes get my serious respect. Minus Justin Vernon, soaring falsettos aren't something we hear too often in folk. Passenger sings in an upper register, but he's just a counter-tenor. Florida folkster Michael McArthur is one of folk's new great falsettos.

We're premiering a live take of McArthur's "Lightning Nights," a gorgeous bit of alternative country-folk. Playing in an intimate outdoor setting -- that may seem like an oxymoron, but when you hear the performance and see the set-up, you'll know why it isn't -- Michael McArthur's gorgeous voice and elegant folk guitar melodies wash you until they begin to envelop the listener. This is the perfect track for lying on the grass during the summer and looking up into the sky at those "Lightning Nights." - baeblemusic.com


"Unsigned & Unleashed Interview: Michael McArthur"

If you haven’t heard of Michael McArthur, then let us be the first to introduce you! The pop/soul singer-songwriter has been making moves in the music industry and is now getting some recognition that he deserves. With his emotional lyrics and seductive sound, Michael McArthur gives any listener a perfect blend of soul, pop and folk. He released his full-length debut album, Magnolia, today! You can purchase the album here! We were so excited about getting the opportunity to chat with him about his past, his new music and what’s coming up for him in the future. Be sure to check out our interview with Michael after the break!

Hey Michael! Thanks for doing an interview with us. I suppose we should start at the beginning. When did you first start wanting to be a singer and how has the journey been from then to now?

Michael: I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. Kindergarten I guess. I haven’t had any formal training, but I like to think that Stevie Wonder taught me. I learned to sing burning holes in his albums. Got my first guitar when I was 15, because I wanted to sing my own songs. Started penning tunes shortly after. They were pretty bad. Awful really. But it’s like anything in life worth chasing, it wouldn’t be much of a journey without all the miles in between. I’m lucky to be on the road.

You previously released two EPs, The Year of You and Me and The Home Recordings, and now you are getting ready to release some new music. How do you think your sound has changed or developed from you first EP to today?

Michael: Speaking of the miles in between. As an artist you go through a few essential formative phases, and Magnolia is special for that reason. Through writing the songs and the recording process, I identified exactly what I’m supposed to be doing - sound wise. It’s not an arrival, but a redirect, and Magnolia’s got the wheel.

Magnolia is your new album that’s set to release on April 7. What do you think you’re most excited about when it comes to the album’s release?

Michael: These songs have done something pretty special for me. I’m most excited about the chance that they might do something special for someone else out there.

What do you want fans to take away from the album? Is there a message or theme?

Michael: No theme, and no message other than just love. Magnolia is all about honesty. Real life. It’s the sight glass to my life. A glimpse into the most personal parts of me. I figured you can’t get people to listen if you won’t tell them the truth. My hope is that if there’s anyone out there who’s had experiences like I have, that we’re able to connect on that level, through music.

What/Who influences you when you’re writing music?

Michael: MJ, Stevie, James Taylor, rainy days, sunshine, heartbreak, and making up.

How would you describe the sound and overall feel of the album?

Michael: Raw, organic, soul. We used all real instruments and a lot of the album was recorded live as a band to capture plenty of the human element. You can feel the individuality in the instruments. Almost like each part has a story of its own.

What’s your favorite songs off Magnolia?

Michael: It’ll probably change over time, but right now I’m drawn to “Magnolia,” “Lightning Nights,” and “Desire.” Particularly “Lightning Nights” though. That one’s special.

So to wrap up this interview, what does the future hold for you?

Michael: We’re planning a tour right now, and I’m pumped to be opening for The Beach Boys in May. - unsignedunleashed.com


"Highlighted Artist: Michael McArthur"

Soulful pop artist Michael McArthur has been playing music his entire life. Hailing from Lakeland, Florida, McArthur grew up in a family of musicians. In 2012, Michael McArthur released his debut EP, The Year of You and Me, setting the songwriter on the road to showcase his work. 2013 proved to be a successful year when Michael self-produced his sophomore EP, The Home Recordings, a fully acoustic EP showcasing McArthur’s compelling tone and raw sound. McArthur has also released a brand new video for his track. Lightning Nights, which you can check out below.

Current single:

“Magnolia”

How did you get your start in music?

I’ve been a huge fan of music for as long as I can remember. I responded to it at an early age. So, I guess I got my start singing along to Stevie Wonder albums.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

On April 10th, 2015 I performed at the Polk Theatre to a packed house to celebrate the release of my new album, ‘Magnolia’. Some things just aren’t meant to be put in to words. They can’t be explained. Like pure magic. That was one of those moments.

Why should people listen to you? What makes you different?

Honesty. I’ve written every note and every word of every song. When you listen to my stuff, you’re getting real life and real experiences. I figure that you can’t get people to listen unless you’re willing to tell them the truth. I’m after authenticity, and I do everything I can to convey that in my music. I have to think that there are a few people out there who want the same. - highlightmagazine.net


"Weekend Spin: Let's Get Boy Crazy"

Michael McArthur – Lighting Nights

There’s something about a tender, soft ballad that gets me every time. Michael McArthur possess a sweet, floating falsetto that virtually becomes one with the hum of the guitar, and folk/pop tracks reminiscent of Adam Levine and Maroon 5’s timid early years. The romantic song remains a gentle meander of music throughout the acoustic video, allowing the vocals to breathe and fill the space that’s empty of other instrumentation. It’s truly beautiful, and I could easily see this track getting picked up for placement in television or movies. It possesses just the right amount of movement and is flush with emotion, that you can almost envision a beautiful scene playing along with it as you listen. If you dig the song, be sure to take a listen to his full length album that was released last year, Magnolia, where you’ll find a bit of a different vibe throughout each track. Check out the acoustic video and pick up the single on iTunes now. - jukeboxmixtape.com


"Introducing: Michael McArthur"

We’ve talked with Michael, a genius with the guitar whose songs will make you fall in love... - artisweird.org


"The Sweet Smell of Success: Michael McArthur's 'Magnolia'"

Michael McArthur recently released a new album titled Magnolia on April 7. This album succeeds his previous EP’s, The Year of You and Me and The Home Recordings, both of which show the wide range of genres he tackles, as well as his bright, soothing vocals. McArthur, originally from Lakeland Florida, was originally a young businessman, but his passion for music moved him to pursue it as a serious career.

He explains, “My brother and I actually opened a coffee shop in our hometown. We were pretty young to start becoming businessmen; he was 22 and I was 19. But after I started pursuing music, I sold all my shares so that I wouldn’t have a Plan B, because I didn’t want an excuse to ever stop. But if I hadn’t pursued music, I would probably be there, doing that.”

Luckily, McArthur did pursue music because his musical talent is evident in his work. Of his fairly new career, he says the best part has been, “Working on this past album. It felt like everything really came together these past months while I’ve been working on it.” He explains his personal connections to the songs as well. “Well, you have to realize that I see these songs differently from everyone else,” he says, “Because you know, I was there from the beginning, when they were just melodies I was humming in my head.” He says that the song he is proudest of is “Lightning Nights.”

When he details his work days, his commitment to his music is never-ending. “ I–well, I go to bed pretty early, around midnight usually, but then I spend probably 10 to 14 hours a day working on music, 6 days a week,” he explains. “Sunday I don’t do anything related to music, I don’t look at emails, I just decompress.” He makes it clear that having time to relax is important too. However, he is serious about his work. He says that the most important thing for musicians is, “Pursuing music with reckless abandon. So many people look at these new emerging artists and they don’t realize that it took those new artists five long years of work to get there. Lots of people give up right before they get a break.”

When he talks about his future goals, McArthur is realistic. “Well, lots of people have different definitions of what ‘made it’ is. Like Katy Perry, she’s definitely ‘made it’, but there are plenty of people who aren’t as popular as she is who have still ‘made it’. I think…if I could play shows for like 20,000 people and have that, I think that would really be my ‘made it.’”

McArthur’s unique approach to his music make his tracks a fun experience for listeners. McArthur’s hardworking attitude and his dedication to his music make him a down-to-earth artist who pursues his art without holding back. His album Magnolia, available now, gives his audience a seductive, smooth, soul sound with undertones of jazz. His devotion to his art is admirable, and with it he has a bright future ahead of him.

Check out his Facebook page and follow him for updates on his music. - limerencemag.com


"UM Interview: Michael McArthur"

Pop/Soul Singer-Songwriter Michael McArthur hails from Lakeland, FL and recently released his record ‘Magnolia.’ Jenna Hassan sat down with Michael McArthur to talk about ‘Magnolia,’ music and more!

Jenna Hassan:Tell us a bit about yourself, where you grew up and how you got into music?
Michael McArthur: I grew up in Florida in a town called Lakeland. It’s sort of right between Tampa and Orlando. I’ve been surrounded by music since I was a kid, so imagine that’s where it started for me. My uncles and dad all played guitar and sang. Especially my Uncle John. He does that whole James Taylor finger picking thing, and I was mesmerized (still am) by it. I started playing guitar when I was 15, because I wanted to write songs. Been playing and writing since.
JH: What was the first instrument you learned how to play?
MA: Guitar. I play a little piano, but it’s all about guitar for me.

JH: Your latest release is pretty emotional; was there a concept behind it or were you just writing what felt right?
MA: Everything I write is rooted in feeling. Every note and every word, if I’m not feeling it, I’m not writing it. So, there’s no concept other than life. 'Magnolia’ is essentially a chapter taken straight from my life’s book.

JH: Is there a story behind why you chose ‘Magnolia’ as the title?
MA: Yes. Definitely. There are a lot magnolia trees where I live. They’re in bloom right now, actually. I’m sort of fascinated by these huge trees that have such beautiful blooms. 'Magnolia’ is all about a woman who is equal parts beautiful and strong. Comfortable in her own skin, and not afraid to stand alone. That’s the perfect woman if you ask me.

JH: Do you think, musically, you’ve grown since your 2012 EP?
MA: I’ve traveled many miles since 2012. Most importantly I have major clarity on what I’m supposed to be doing. It took me a little bit to figure out what I’m best at and where I belong musically. I haven’t arrived by any means, but I have a new heading, and I’m excited to see where this map takes me. Really, my experience recording with David Bianco and Conrad Johnson was what did it. I owe it to them.

JH: You’ve released quite a bit of music and accomplished a lot between your first EP and now; what are some of the most important things you’ve learned about the music industry in your busy years?
MA: I’ve learned to let go of how it happens for me, how I “make” it, but instead to focus on making music that I want to play and sing, and that people want to hear. All I want to do is contribute something good to this world.

JH: What was your reaction when a big name like David Bianco wanted to work with you?
MA: It’s like going from the minors to the majors, so naturally I felt a little out of my league, but so pumped. What you do in moments like these, how you handle yourself is so important. I think I did ok.

JH: Are there any great names in music you’ve been compared to?
MA: I’ve gotten a few. When you’re new, people need something familiar to compare you to. A box to put you in. It’s totally natural, we all do it, but it’s not until you’re in the box that you realize you’d rather not be. Although I do appreciate some comparisons, just depends. I’ve gotten John Mayer, James Taylor, Justin Timberlake, Phil Collins and a few others.

JH: In the past, you’ve mentioned some of the artists you enjoy such as Bob Dylan and Stevie Wonder; do you think any artist has had a major influence on you which continues to influence your music?
MA: Of course. Michael Jackson, Stevie, James Taylor,

JH: You’ve probably gotten more recognition after winning the Florida Grammy Showcase and have been working with all sorts of people, have you been starstruck yet?
MA: I haven’t been starstruck yet, but it’s totally possible. When I meet Stevie or James, that’ll probably do it. But really we’re all just people.

JH: What’s more difficult: the writing, the recording, or the touring?
MA: They all have their own set of challenges, but I’m fueled by the difficult. I don’t prefer one over the others either. I’m lucky to get to essentially change jobs every once in a while.

JH: Your songs seem to have some pretty deep lyrics; when writing, do you need to be in the moment or can you write a song “on command”? Also, what’s your cure for writers block?
MA: I don’t have to be in the moment, but it helps to be. And I can write songs at any time. But whether or not they’re good is another thing. Either way, you have to get through some bad songs in order to find the good ones. There are two things I do to for writers block. I either just stay in the room and put in the time until something good comes around, or I put the song away for awhile and move on. Sometimes songs go unfinished and pieces of them get rolled in to the dough of another tune, and sometimes I’ll revisit and actually finish it.

JH: What is your dream tour lineup?
MA: Man, I like too many artists to have a dream list. I’d love to play with D'Angelo, John Mayer, Ed Sheeran, Ray Lamontagne, Amos Lee…

JH: Any weird tour stories you can share?
MA: I had a gig at a venue in Boca Raton and the sound guy never showed up. So we had to sound check/run sound ourselves. I haven’t been back.

JH: Thank you for your time. Last question, finish this sentence:
MA: If I didn’t have music, I would have a drinking problem.

Connect with Michael McArthur:
http://www.michaelmcarthurmusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/McArthurMusic
https://twitter.com/mcarthurmusic
https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelMcArthurMusic - umusicians.com


Discography

Magnolia (Released April 7, 2015)

Track Listing

1. Magnolia

2. Run Around

3. She's Got It All

4. Clocks

5. Lightning Nights

6. Truly, Madly, Freely

7. Desire

8. She's Got It All (1984 Remix)


The Home Recordings (Released September 27, 2013)

Track Listing

1. Lose My Mind (Acoustic)
2. New Life (Acoustic)
3. Scream (Acoustic)
4. She's No You (Acoustic)
5. Love Is Gone (Acoustic)


The Year Of You And Me (Released August 19, 2012)

Track Listing:

1. Lose My Mind
2. New Life
3. Scream
4. She's No You
5. Love Is Gone


Photos

Bio

Michael McArthur is a soulful pop singer/songwriter from Lakeland, Florida. Born into a musical family, it was this rich musical culture that helped mold Michael into the musician he is today. "I can remember being a kid and like a stone completely mesmerized by my Uncle John's folky fingerpicking, it was magic." Michael says, "and I remember visiting my dad on the weekends, running to his closet where he kept the guitar, pulling it out, and asking him to play." 

Born with music in his blood, Michael McArthur writes with raw, gut-wrenching emotion, delivering a new take on blues, soul, pop, country, folk, and even hip-hop. Michael's soulful voice cuts through his emotionally-inspired melodies that aims to grab the audience by the heart. 

In 2012, Michael McArthur released his debut EP, The Year of You and Me, setting the songwriter on the road to showcase his work. 2013 proved to be a successful year when Michael self-produced his sophomore EP, The Home Recordings, a fully acoustic EP showcasing McArthur's compelling tone and raw sound. The same year, Michael McArthur was coined the winner of the 2013 Florida GRAMMY Showcase. Following a performance at The Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles for Guitar Center's Singer/Songwriter Contest Finals, Michael McArthur caught the attention of GRAMMY Award-winning Producer, David Bianco (Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Lucinda Williams, Citizen Cope). Soon after, Michael headed to California to record his new album, Magnolia.

"I spent my young years listening to every piece of music I could get my hands on.",  Michael says. "And really, I learned to sing singing along to Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and James Taylor. I'm inspired by the imagery of a great song. Songs paint the pictures that dreams can't, you know? But I couldn't sing along to Stevie Wonder forever. I wanted to sing my own songs. I've got something to say too. Something I think people want to hear."

Band Members