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To see where Robert came from is to look at a fourteen year-old
boy growing up in Toronto wanting, more than anything in the
world, to learn how to play guitar. Initially his parents
doubted his dedication and refused to buy him one.
Undaunted, he picked up a piece of wood, drew on some frets
and nailed six pieces of plain string on to it. He then sat
in his room for hours on end practicing silent chords.
Eventually his parents relented and bought him his first
guitar and from that day he soared. Robert Michaels
released his debut CD Paradiso in 1996, and from that time
has released 4 more albums. Following on from the success
of 2003’s JUNO award-winning Allegro, the new self-titled
album from ROBERT MICHAELS is now available. This 2-CD set
includes both a vocal disc of beautiful new songs and an
instrumental disc highlighting Robert’s unique acoustic
guitar style.
Robert’s new album (self titled, "Robert Michaels")
displays amazing growth and introduces a number of musical
elements. In addition to his own vocals tracks it also
includes renowned vocalist Jennifer Warnes (Famous Blue
Raincoat) who makes a rare guest appearance on “So Sad”, and
“Emporte-Nous” features acclaimed musical stage actress
Louise Pitre (Mamma Mia!). Respected Canadian singers Luba
and Coral Egan are also special guest vocalists.
 This collection of 18 unique songs ranges in style from
pop to flamenco. Much of Robert’s earlier recordings were
described as “flamenco-jazz” but these new songs have a much
broader musical palette. Robert explains, “From the
beginning I didn’t play flamenco or Latin jazz in any
traditional way. I had experience playing so many other
styles that I merely incorporated all of the influences. My
style was never planned. I arrived at it spontaneously while
playing in front of the audiences.”
Robert's most current release is titled Cubamenco.
Robert tells us, "Cubamenco is a word I created to describe two cultures
of music fused together: 'Cuban' and 'Flamenco'. On this recording you will find flavours of the 2 styles represented in a non-traditional
way where old world meets new." Prior to 2009's Cubamenco, Robert released "The Spanish Guitar
Collection". This album is a beautiful collection of Robert's instrumental compositions from his hit albums over the past 10 years.
The Cd Arizona, earned Robert
a 1997 JUNO nomination for Instrumental Artist of the Year.
His next release, Allegro, won the JUNO for Best
Instrumental Album in 2003. Robert admits, “It’s all been
word of mouth, really. Every time we did a show, people came
up to us and asked where we were playing next and if they
could buy an album. Then they’d show up and bring their
friends and it just grew from there.”
Robert Michaels regularly performs across Canada
Tour dates are announced at this site so check back often!
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