Michael J. Woodard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Michael J. Woodard
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Woodard in 2023
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| Background information | |
| Born | October 6, 1997 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Labels | Unsub Records |
Michael Jordan Woodard, born on October 6, 1997, is a talented American singer and voice actor. You might know him from American Idol, where he made it to the top five. He also voices the main character, Arlo, in the movie Arlo the Alligator Boy and the TV show I ♥ Arlo. He's even been nominated for awards for his voice work!
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About Michael Woodard
Michael grew up in South Philadelphia and East Falls, Philadelphia. He was raised by his mother and grandmother. His mother, Wanda, has a visual impairment.
He went to William M. Meredith School and was also homeschooled for a while. Michael loved singing from a young age. He sang in the church choir at Greater Saint Matthew Baptist Church.
His very first time performing music was singing "A Little Candle" at a Christmas show. When he was eight, he tried out for a play at a local performing arts school. In 2016, he moved to Los Angeles to study at the Musicians Institute. Before becoming famous on American Idol, he worked at a bowling alley.
Michael's Music Journey
Michael Woodard started performing early in his career. In 2009, he sang the national anthem for the Philadelphia Freedoms tennis team. He also sang at the US Open tennis tournament.
He performed at the US Open again in 2010. A few months later, he sang at a special event for President Barack Obama.
Winning Majors & Minors
In 2012, Michael won a TV show called Majors & Minors. On this show, famous singers like Jennifer Hudson, Jordin Sparks, and Adam Lambert helped mentor young artists. Winning the show helped him get a partnership with RCA Music Group.
His Time on American Idol
Michael tried out for American Idol in 2017. He sang "Make It Rain" for his audition. During the competition, he sang many popular songs.
He made it all the way to the top five contestants. He was eliminated from the show along with another singer, Cade Foehner.
Voice Acting and New Music
In 2021, Michael started his voice acting career. He played the main character, Arlo, in the animated musical movie Arlo the Alligator Boy. The director, Ryan Crego, chose Michael after seeing his American Idol audition. Michael then continued to voice Arlo in the TV series I ♥ Arlo.
In May 2021, Michael signed with Unsub Records. This is a record label owned by American Idol judge Katy Perry. On January 12, 2024, he released his first music collection, called an E.P. (which stands for Extended Play), titled MJW1. It was released through Unsub Records and Capitol Records.
Michael has said that artists like Trey Songz, Rihanna, Fleetwood Mac, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and Brandy have influenced his music.
Michael's Appearances
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–2012 | Majors & Minors | Himself (contestant) | He was the winner |
| 2018 | American Idol | Season 16; made it to the top 5 | |
| 2021 | Arlo the Alligator Boy | Arlo Beauregard (voice) | Animated movie |
| I ♥ Arlo | Main character for 20 episodes |
Michael's Songs
Singles
| Year | Single | Album(s) | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Why You Texting Me? | Not on an album | Unsub Records / Virgin Music |
| Hope Full | |||
| 2022 | Show Some Teeth | ||
| 2023 | Trouble | MJW1 E.P | Unsub Records / Capitol Records |
| Face | |||
| Ruined | |||
| 2024 | Anti You | ||
| Hems | |||
| 24 Hours |
Awards Michael Has Received
| Year | Awards | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Hollywood Music in Media Awards | Best Original Song in an Animated Film | "Follow Me Home" (from Arlo the Alligator Boy) | Nominated |
| 2022 | Annie Awards | Best Voice Acting in an Animated TV Show | Arlo the Alligator Boy | Nominated |
