Michael Wilson Knowles

I put on a high-energy solo show that surprises and delights audiences with its infectious approach to this classic music I love so much.

Oh, and by the way: I also have a band that can join me for events requiring more than a solo artist.

Audiences smile, tap their toes, shake it down, laugh, and sing along to the songs and sounds of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. It's not just a memory trip - it's an adventure into acknowledging how much fun life can really be when you let the music guide and inspire you.

I perform an eclectic array of music, so you'll hear everything from rockers like "Everybody's Trying to Be My Baby" to the jazz-influenced Steely Dan classic "Don't Take Me Alive".

I also do what I call salon-style events. Think of these as interactive house concerts in which I present the stories and songs of roots rock in a conversational and engaging style. It's rock and roll for the history buff - with eyebrows. ;-D

Clients: You'll get a seasoned professional. I show up on time, every time - if the show starts at 8, I start on the dot. I bring exactly what you'd expect from an entertainer: A great product (the music), a friendly and sincere attitude, and someone who helps your guests feel right at home. I should mention, too, that you won't see me drinking or otherwise altering my consciousness before, during, or after shows. You don't drink on the job, do you? Neither do I.

I'm happy doing family friendly shows or adults-only events.

I'm also quite good at dealing with the numerous and often chaotic things that happen during events. I bring backups of everything and am prepared for anything. My clients are often surprised to find I pitch in to help whenever I can - running an event is a big job and if I see a way I can be of use, I'll be diving in.

Ask me, too, about how to put on a rock-and-roll themed event - I can give you pointers, ideas, and direct you to resources that will allow you to put on a killer event without breaking the bank.

If John Lee Hooker, The Beatles, and Talking Heads had a love child, it would be me. I was born with a hip-shaking soundtrack in my head.

I remember finding my father's copy of the "Rock Around the Clock" album by Bill Haley and the Comets and listening to it over and over, along with a host of other great music by a diverse group of performers ranging from the roots of rock to the new: Elvis, Phil Harris, Howling Wolf, Muddy Waters, The Beatles, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin... it's a long list.

I love doing those songs, and the music I write is heavily informed by joy in movement, story, and dance. I am the absolute perfect performer for events targeted to Baby Boomers. And I've enjoyed success introducing this music to new generations of dancers and listeners.

A bit from the bio on my website:

Michael Wilson Knowles is known as “The Rock ‘N Roll Time Traveler” for good reason. He has spent his life studying the genre from its inception in the mid-1950s through the 1970’s and beyond. His performances show not only a deep respect for the music but also a real joy in recreating it. His vocal prowess and guitar playing are up to the task whether he is covering a crowd-pleasing Roy Orbison classic or a James Brown funk groove. And his stories about the artists and the times are as enjoyable as the songs themselves. Michael Wilson Knowles makes Rock ‘N Roll fun again.

“Michael puts on an energetic and entertaining show that keeps things hopping.” – Kory & Collin Suttles, Brown Mountain Bottleworks

“Michael Wilson Knowles is THE entertainer!” Geba Davenport, Owner, Shadow Line Vineyard

“Everyone loved Michael’s voice, artistry, and energy — looking forward to having him again!” Kate Landry, Community Education & Outreach Coordinator, Children’s Advocacy & Protection Center of Catawba County.

“The hippest, coolest cat around!” Shaunie T. Smith, Host, Monday Moon Sessions, Crescent Moon Cafe.

I typically bring my own sound system to events. I play both electric guitar (without ear-splitting distortion) and acoustic, though I tend to do more on electric because of the flexibility it provides.

I prefer playing from a stage, large or small, though your front porch, patio, or living room is just fine.