About Michael Barretto
Michael Barretto was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. He got his first guitar (a Kalamazoo) at the age of six from his father, an island country musician. The music he found growing up in Hawaii included Blues, Country,Rock, Hawaiian, Calypso, and Salsa. These influences worked to form Michael’s unique style. His first “gig” at 6 sparked a love for performing that
still burns deep.
Michael has played professionally since 1972. Michael met bluesman Taj Mahal In 1980 . “The Hula Blues Band” was formed soon after and Michael has played with Taj ever since. The “Hula Blues Band ” has recorded twice; “Sacred Island” released in 1998, and “Hanapepe Dream” released in March 2001.
Michael plays guitar, banjo, ukulele, and bass. He has played on the same stage as Jesse Colin Young, Corey Harris, Henry Butler, Brian Kramer, Smokin’ Joe Kubek and of course Taj Mahal.
FreeBorn Records released Michael’s CD "Sometimes I Go" in 2000 and since, Michael has since released "Live at Wangaratta" (recorded in Australia, 2001), "Oz!" (recorded in Australia, 2003), and "Solo Live" (Hawaii, 2006). The music is getting airplay worldwide. He is currently recording his latest project in Hawaii for release in the summer of 2008.
With a smokey voice, and rich guitar work, Michael Barretto mixes fine blues with a streak of island sunshine. He’s is a pioneer of a hybrid genre that crosses urban and island music and is simply called Island Blues. The results are hearty crowd-pleasing sets filled with smooth rhythms, swampy backbeats, and thoughtful lyrics. |
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