Michael Kiwanuka Biography

Michael Samuel Kiwanuka is a British soul musician. He encountered fame in 2012, due to the released of his debut album. Additionally, he won BBC’s Sound of 2012. He is compared to the likes of Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding. Kiwanuka’s music combines a mesmerising voice with an emotional lyrical honesty.

Early life & Career

Michael was born in Muswell Hill, North London, in 1987. He studied arts at the University of Westminster. His passion for music began with Radiohead and Nirvana. He initially worked as a session musician, until being discovered by Paul Butler who invited him to his Isle of Wight studio. Eventually, the artist signed with Communication Records and released two EP’s, Tell Me a Tale and I’m Getting Ready.

Breakthrough & Recognition

Furthermore, Michael Kiwanuka toured with Adele in the UK and made it into the Brits Critics Choice short list. Shortly after, he released his debut album, Home Again. It received two gold certifications and spawned two successful singles – the title track and I’m Getting Ready. His second album, Love & Hate, only came out in 2016. It received critical acclaim and topped the UK Albums chart. Moreover, the album brought the soul musician a HiPipo Music Award for “Best Global Act”. From the 3 singles generated, Black Man in a White World as a sound-bending personal and political statement.

Photo source: FanartTV