Michael Bolton (b. 1953)

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Biography

Michael Bolotin, known professionally as Michael Bolton, is an American singer and songwriter. Bolton performed in the hard rock and heavy metal music genres from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, both on his early solo albums and those he recorded as the frontman of the band Blackjack. His early career also saw him as a successful songwriter, co-writing hits like "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You" for Laura Branigan, which he later recorded as a solo single.

Timeline

The story of Michael Bolton, told in moments.

1953 Birth

Born Michael Bolotin in New Haven, Connecticut. Signed his first recording contract at 15. Spent the 1970s fronting a hard rock band called Blackjack. They opened for Ozzy Osbourne. Nobody remembers.

Was fronting Blackjack opening for Ozzy a good education? Did signing your first contract at 15 feel too early? What did New Haven give a future balladeer?

1989 Event

Releases "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You," which hits number one. He'd written it for Laura Branigan years earlier. Now he sings it himself, with the full power of a voice that's three octaves of controlled intensity. The mullet helps.

Did singing your own song after writing it for Laura Branigan feel like reclaiming it? Was the mullet intentional? Is three octaves of controlled intensity a gift or a skill?

1992 Life

Wins two consecutive Grammys for Best Male Pop Vocal. He's selling millions. Critics mock him relentlessly. The general public doesn't read music criticism. They buy the albums.

Did two consecutive Grammys silence the critics? Does the public not reading music criticism vindicate you? Was selling millions despite mockery the point?

2011 Legacy

Stars in a Lonely Island comedy sketch, "Jack Sparrow," that becomes a viral hit. He sings about Pirates of the Caribbean with total commitment. Fifty-seven years old and suddenly cooler than he's ever been because he's willing to be ridiculous.

Was being willing to be ridiculous at 57 the coolest thing you've done? Did the Lonely Island sketch change your image? Is humor the best defense against decades of criticism?