Conversations with Michael Keys

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Keys.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born and raised in Chicago, IL, I’ve been singing for fun for as long as I can remember. I loved sharing my performances with the radio or jamming to a tune in the shower. I did not take it seriously though until I performed (and won) at my High School Talent Show. I felt so alive after that moment that I knew that this was something that I wanted to do.

After that, I took vocal lessons and joined a lot of different bands playing at bars and festivals before I was even old enough to drink. I’ve performed with many professional cover acts all over the Midwest. When I turned 27, I realized I needed a change. Chicago was a great start for my music career but I knew I needed to do something more. That’s when I moved to Nashville, TN to pursue music at a much more intimate level. I started writing my music and branched out as a solo artist.

It was a great big step for me and my music career. I’ve grown more comfortable playing on stage and putting on a show for the audience. I’ve had the opportunity to open for National Acts and play at some of the most famous music venues all across Nashville. My original music gives me a chance to tell my story and hope to find that others can relate. Now, I perform shows regularly. My personal goal is to give the audience a show they will never forget.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I first moved to Nashville, it was not all sunshine and rainbows. I didn’t know anyone in town and I missed my family and my friends.

I was fortunate enough to have a family friend in Murfreesboro offer her home to me until I grew comfortable enough to find a place of my own. The first few months were rough. Trying to get shows booked, trying to meet people, trying to write songs. It was a struggle. As I’m sure many people have experienced.

It took some time but I was able to make a substantial living. I was able to get some shows booked and write with many great writers. I’ve not only made friends, but I even met, my now, wife here and I’m happier than I’ve ever been.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a Singer/Songwriter in Country Music. I offer live entertainment and can play at a bar, corporate event, festival, or even your backyard. I provide a performance like no other where I engage with the crowd and bring energy to them rather than pretending to be a jukebox. My goal is to leave them with a show they will never forget.

I’ve performed at places like Country Thunder, Joe’s on Weed Street, and even inside the historic baseball field, Wrigley Field. I’ve opened up for National Acts such as Sam Hunt, Craig Campbell, Love and Theft, and Midland.

My favorite accomplishment was winning the Bluebird Cafe Golden Pick Contest in December 2021. It allowed me to be recognized for my original music which was a great feeling for me.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Music is a really big inspiration for me. Some of my influences are Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, and Keith Urban.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ffm.bio/michaelkeysmusic
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelkeysmusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaelkeysmusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKeysmusic 

Image Credits
Jason Kalish and Marisa Taylor