Biography
Who is Michael Bolton?
Early life and real name
Michael was born as Michael Bolotin in New Haven, Connecticut. His father, George, was a Democratic Party official. His mother, Helen, was a homemaker. He grew up with a brother named Orrin and a sister named Sandra.
He began playing the saxophone by age 7. By age 9, he started writing his own songs. At 14, he started a group called the Nomads. Epic Records signed them to a contract when he was 16.
Early music and songwriting
In 1975, Michael recorded his first album at The Church Studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This record used his original family name. He focused on heavy metal and hard rock during his early years. He was the frontman for a band called Blackjack. This group once opened for Ozzy Osbourne.
He also found success as a songwriter. He co-wrote the song How Am I Supposed to Live Without You for Laura Branigan. This track hit number one on the Adult Contemporary chart in 1983. He also co-wrote I Found Someone, which helped relaunch the career of Cher.
Success as a pop singer
He reached his peak as a pop singer in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He worked with songwriters like Desmond Child and Diane Warren. He also wrote a song called Steel Bars with Bob Dylan. Michael often covered soul classics from the 1960s.
His 1987 version of (Sittin' On) the Dock of the Bay became a major hit. He also recorded Georgia on My Mind in 1989. His album Time, Love & Tenderness featured a cover of When a Man Loves a Woman. This specific song won a Grammy Award.
Legal issues and other projects
The Isley Brothers accused Michael of plagiarism regarding the song Love Is a Wonderful Thing. This legal battle lasted fifteen years. It ended with a settlement of 4.2 million dollars.
He expanded his work into film and television. He produced a documentary called American Dream: Detroit. He also appeared as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
Personal life and family
Michael was married to Maureen McGuire for 15 years. They have three daughters together. He was previously engaged to the actress Nicollette Sheridan.
He is active in philanthropy through The Michael Bolton Charities. He has received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Birthday and age
Michael Bolton was born on February 26, 1953, which makes Michael 73 years old today. That birthday falls under the Pisces sign. Michael shares the date with 41 other famous people.
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