Michael Stokes (record producer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Michael Stokes
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| Birth name | Michael Lee Stokes |
| Also known as | Mike Stokes |
| Born | September 26, 1955 Detroit, Michigan, United States |
| Genres | R&B, dance, soul, disco, funk |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, record producer, songwriter |
| Instruments | Keyboards |
| Years active | 1970–present |
| Labels | Sussex, Roadshow, A&M, Motown |
| Associated acts | Enchantment |
Michael Stokes (born September 26, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan) is an American record producer, a former executive at A&M Records, and a talented songwriter. He is well-known for helping artists like Enchantment, Janet Jackson, and Creative Source create their music.
Early Career and Success
Michael Stokes started his career in the early 1970s. He worked with Clarence Avant at his company, Sussex Records. There, Michael wrote songs and produced music for many artists. Some of these artists included Bill Withers, Creative Source, and Dennis Coffey.
When Sussex Records closed down in 1975, Michael Stokes moved to Roadshow Records. He continued to have great success by writing and producing the first three albums for the group Enchantment. He also wrote songs for other popular groups like Brass Construction and BT Express.
Working with A&M Records
In the early 1980s, Michael Stokes took on an important role at A&M Records. He became the head of A&R, which stands for Artists and Repertoire. This job involves finding new musical talent and helping them develop their careers.
One of his biggest achievements at A&M Records was signing the famous singer Janet Jackson. This was a very important step in her career.
Later Work and Notable Artists
Michael Stokes has continued to write songs and produce music for many years. He has worked with a wide range of artists across different music styles.
Some of the well-known musicians he has collaborated with include:
He also worked with Herb Alpert on his 1981 album, Magic Man. A journalist named Paul Grein, who writes for Billboard magazine, even mentioned Michael Stokes's work with Herb Alpert in the notes for a special CD.
Michael Stokes has had a long and successful career in the music industry. He has helped shape the sound of many popular artists through his skills as a producer and songwriter.
