Michael Kiwanuka facts for kids

Michael Samuel Kiwanuka (born May 3, 1988) is a British singer, songwriter, and musician. He also produces music. He is known for his soulful voice and folk-rock style.

Michael Kiwanuka has released several successful albums. His first album, Home Again (2012), sold very well in the UK. His second album, Love & Hate (2016), became a number one hit.

He has won important awards, including the BBC's Sound of... in 2012. He also won the Mercury Prize in 2020 for his album Kiwanuka. His latest album, Small Changes, came out in November 2024.

About Michael Kiwanuka

Michael Samuel Kiwanuka was born in London, England, on May 3, 1988. His parents, Deborah and Michael Kiwanuka, came from Uganda. They moved to the UK to escape a difficult time in their home country.

Michael went to Fortismere School and finished in 2005. Later, he studied at the University of Westminster.

Michael Kiwanuka's Music Career

Starting Out

Before becoming a solo artist, Michael Kiwanuka played guitar for other musicians. He worked with artists like Chipmunk and Bashy. His first solo show was in Kentish Town when he was 22 years old.

A record company called Communion Records noticed his talent. They released his first two short albums, called EPs. His very first EP, Tell Me A Tale, came out on June 13, 2011.

First Albums: Home Again and Love & Hate

In 2011, Michael Kiwanuka joined Polydor Records. He also got to open for the famous singer Adele on her 2011 tour. He played at the iTunes Festival and Hard Rock Calling events that year.

The BBC chose him as the winner of their "Sound of 2012" poll. This award highlights new artists who are expected to become popular.

Kiwanuka performing at the 2012 Montreux Jazz Festival

His first full album, Home Again, was released in 2012. Critics liked it a lot, and it reached number 4 on the UK music charts.

For his second album, Michael decided to start over after recording a whole album he wasn't happy with. In 2016, he released Love & Hate. This album was a huge success. It went straight to number 1 in the UK. A famous producer named Danger Mouse helped make the album. One of its songs, "Cold Little Heart," became the theme song for the TV show Big Little Lies.

Collaborations and Kiwanuka

Michael Kiwanuka worked with other artists on new music. In 2018, he recorded a song called "On My Knees" with UNKLE. This song was for the movie Roma. In 2019, he teamed up with Tom Misch for the song "Money."

His third album, Kiwanuka, was released in November 2019. It was also very popular and reached number 2 in the UK. This album won the UK Mercury Music Prize in 2020. Michael said he named the album after himself because he felt more confident being himself.

Kiwanuka performing in September 2024

Recent Music

In 2024, Michael Kiwanuka announced a tour with American singer-songwriter Brittany Howard. In June 2024, he performed on the main stage at the Glastonbury Festival.

In July 2024, he released a new song called "Floating Parade." This was his first new music in three years. This song is on his fourth album, Small Changes, which was released on November 22, 2024.

Musical Style and Influences

Michael Kiwanuka's music is often compared to artists like Bill Withers and Marvin Gaye. He has said that many famous musicians have influenced his style. These include Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and Otis Redding. He has even played with James Gadson, who was a drummer for Bill Withers.

Personal Life

Michael Kiwanuka married his wife, Charlotte, in 2016. She is also a musician. They have lived in Southampton since 2019.

Michael has spoken openly about dealing with anxiety and other mental health challenges. He is a Christian and a big fan of the Tottenham Hotspur FC football team.

Albums

• Home Again (2012)
• Love & Hate (2016)
• Kiwanuka (2019)
• Small Changes (2024)

Awards and Nominations

Michael Kiwanuka has received many awards and nominations for his music.

See also

In Spanish: Michael Kiwanuka para niños