Michael Kiwanuka facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Michael Kiwanuka
Kiwanuka in June 2024
Background information
Born	(1988-05-03) 3 May 1988 (age 37) London, England
Genres	Indie rock folk rock soul
Occupation(s)	Singer songwriter musician record producer
Instruments	Vocals guitar bass keyboards
Labels	Polydor Communion

Michael Samuel Kiwanuka (born May 3, 1988) is an English singer, songwriter, and musician. He also produces music. Michael is known for his unique blend of soul, folk rock, and indie rock.

His first album, Home Again (2012), sold very well in the UK. His second album, Love & Hate (2016), even reached number one on the music charts. Michael has been nominated for many important awards. These include the Brit Awards and Grammy Awards. He won the BBC's Sound of... award in 2012. In 2020, he won the famous Mercury Prize. His latest album, Small Changes, came out in November 2024.

Early life and education

Michael Samuel Kiwanuka was born in Muswell Hill, London, on May 3, 1988. His parents, Deborah and Michael Kiwanuka, came from Uganda. They had to leave their home because of a difficult government.

Michael went to Fortismere School and finished in 2005. Later, he studied at the University of Westminster. He focused on media, arts, and design.

Music career highlights

Kiwanuka performing at the 2012 Montreux Jazz Festival

Kiwanuka performing in September 2024

Starting out in music

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

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

First albums and success (2011–2016)

In 2011, Michael went on tour with the famous singer Adele. He also performed at the iTunes Festival. Later that year, he signed a deal with Polydor Records.

In 2012, the BBC named him the winner of their "Sound of 2012" poll. This award highlights new artists to watch. Michael released his first full album, Home Again, in 2012. Critics gave it great reviews. The album reached number 4 on the UK charts.

Michael worked on a second album, but he decided not to release it. He then created Love & Hate, which came out in 2016. This album was a huge success. It reached number 1 in the UK. The song "Cold Little Heart" from this album became the theme song for the TV show Big Little Lies.

Collaborations and Kiwanuka (2018–2019)

In 2018, Michael recorded a song called "On My Knees" with the group UNKLE. This song was for the movie Roma. In 2019, he worked with Tom Misch on 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 Prize in 2020. Michael said he named the album Kiwanuka to show his growing confidence in himself.

Recent music (2020s)

In 2024, Michael Kiwanuka announced a tour with American singer Brittany Howard. In June 2024, he performed at the famous Glastonbury Festival. In July 2024, he released a new song called "Floating Parade". This song is on his fourth album, Small Changes, which came out in November 2024.

Musical influences and style

Michael Kiwanuka gets inspiration from many different musicians. Some of his influences include Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd. He also looks up to soul singers like Bill Withers, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke.

His music is often compared to artists like Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, and Curtis Mayfield.

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 football team Tottenham Hotspur FC.

Discography

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

Awards and recognition

See also

In Spanish: Michael Kiwanuka para niños