The journey for The Wanz started when he was six years old. His big break didn't come until he was 51. The life time performer that became the Grammy & Diamond Award winning voice singing "I'm gonna pop some tags, only got $20 in my pocket! I'm huntin', lookin' for a come-up, this is f!cking AWESOME!!" on the smash hit "Thrift Shop" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. The back story is one of perseverance, persistence, overcoming adversity while battling inner and outer demons. The opportunity led to every single musical dream he ever had coming true. Now, he mentors, coaches and inspires teens and adults to believe in themselves and 'be your own unicorn'!!
2 reviews
John C.
January 7, 2024The Wanz is the grammy award winning artist who sang the riff with Macklemore on Thrift Shop. I like to call him the best 25-year overnight success you've ever met. Wanz has been studying and making music for over 25 years and he has been speaking to audiences including Hack Diversity (DEIB), professional speakers and students. Wanz has one of the greatest speaking voices you'll hear AND he has one of the most down to earth authenticities you'll ever meet. When he spoke to my group of professional speakers, they gave him a standing ovation and recognize his mastery of the craft. Do yourself a favor, click the button, you'll be glad you did.
Hired as: Emcee, Motivational Speaker
The Wanz
Thank you so much, John!!! I am looking forward to working with you again soon!!!
Best,
Michael 'The Wanz' Wansley
Baron C.
January 6, 2024Mr. Michael Wansley is a great choice for inspiring and empowering youth. With his exceptional ability to connect with young minds, “The Wanz” has a unique talent for igniting a fire within young individuals, encouraging them to chase their dreams and reach their full potential.
Mike possesses a remarkable blend of charisma, passion, and knowledge that captivates the attention of young audiences. His speeches are not only engaging, but also thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on the minds of the youth. They have a natural ability to relate to the challenges and aspirations of today's young generation, making his message resonate deeply.
What sets Mr. Wansley apart is his ability to tailor his talks to address the specific needs and interests of the youth. Whether it's overcoming obstacles, building self-confidence, setting goals, or finding one's passion, he has a knack for delivering powerful messages that inspire positive change.
Furthermore, Mr. Wansley incorporates interactive elements into his presentations, making the experience both entertaining and educational. He understands the importance of engaging the audience and involving them in the learning process, ensuring that the youth walk away with practical tools and strategies to implement in their lives.
Having witnessed Mr. Wansley in action, I can confidently say that he has the ability to transform lives. His energy is infectious, and his genuine desire to see young people succeed is evident in every word he speaks. He has the remarkable ability to instill a sense of belief and motivation in the hearts of the youth, empowering them to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams fearlessly.
In conclusion, Mr. Wansley is a exceptional choice for any event or gathering aimed at inspiring and motivating youth. His unique blend of charisma, relatability, and interactive approach ensures that his message resonates deeply with young minds. I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Wansley as a motivational speaker who will leave a lasting impact on the lives of the youth.
Hired as: Leadership/Success Speaker, Motivational Speaker, Singer/Songwriter
The Wanz
Thank you so much, Mr. Coleman!!! I look forward to working with you again!!!
Best,
Michael 'The Wanz' Wansley
Price range: $500 - $5000
Languages: English
Gig length: 30 - 90 minutes
I am a natural storyteller. Every story has a 'lesson learned' and is very relatable. There are many similarities to the human condition. Shared experiences are the root and branch for him. While touring with Macklemore, Wanz, more often than not, would go visit the folks waiting in line for every show. The discovery was how our similarities tend to be many and our differences relatively few.
Having been a front man for many bands, performed for 10 - 75k, Wanz speaks clearly and often engages his audiences. Sometimes they become part of the show!!!
I inspire people young and old to look at themselves as individuals armed with the power of choice. As long as you're breathin', you have the power and the privilege to do or be anything you want.
For speaking engagements - wireless hand held microphone, stage monitors, a bar stool, small table with a pitcher of ice water and an empty glass (preferably 12-16 oz). Lighting = simple, should go to the edge of the front of the stage.
His story, that continues today, is a unique example of how to keep one’s head together and never lose sight of what has become a mantra: “If you do something that makes you happy, especially if it makes other happy, never EVER stop doing it. You never know where it will take you.”
Focusing on our similarities rather than our differences, Wanz brings a unique perspective on building and maintaining a healthy self-esteem by leveraging a talent or gift every human on the planet has. The key is finding it.
Hand held wireless microphone (Shure 58)
Onstage monitors or side fills
Small table with 3 bottled waters
Motivational Speaker
