Historical Figure
Michael Bolton
b. 1953
American singer-songwriter (born 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Artifacts (15)
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