Celebrating legendary house voices.
In the vibrant world of house music, certain voices resonate deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. One such voice belongs to Michael Watford, whose booming vocals and soulful performances made his voice unmistakably recognisable even beyond the underground.
Michael Watford, hailing from Virginia, emerged as a prominent house music vocalist in the early 1990s. His powerful and emotive voice quickly set him apart, earning him a reputation as one of the genre’s most soulful singers. Watford’s passion for music began at a young age, influenced by gospel and R&B, which is evident in his vocal style.
Songs and Collaborations
Michael’s discography is rich with tracks that have become classics in the house music scene. Some of his most popular songs include:
- “So Into You”: A definitive house anthem that showcases Watford’s soulful range and emotive delivery.
- “Holdin’ On”: Another hit that cemented his place in house music history, characterised by its uplifting vibe and powerful vocals (a fave of mine).
- “Love Change Over”: Another track highlighting his ability to blend seamlessly with different production styles. The Fire Island Club Vocal Mix is quite literally, fire!
Michael Watford has worked with several legendary artists, contributing to the success of many tracks. It’s not widely known that he appeared as a backing singer in Barbara Tucker’s classic Beautiful People. In addition, he collaborated with Masters at Work, India and Carole Sylvan to produce the huge track Voices In My Mind.
Performances
Watford’s live performances are known for their energy and emotional depth. He has graced the stages of numerous iconic clubs and music festivals, captivating audiences with his soulful renditions. He was strongly associated with his performances at Newark’s Zanzibar (where the video for So Into You was filmed). Later on, he collaborated with Jamie Lewis and performed at his legendary Purple Music Party in Switzerland.
You can watch the video of So Into You here.
Legacy
Michael Watford’s influence on house music is undeniable. His larger than life voice, memorable tracks, and impactful performances have solidified his place as a house music legend.
Sadly, Michael died in January 2024 as a result of dementia complications. Read more here on Resident Advisor.
