Mike Barson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mike Barson
Barson performing live with Madness at Manchester Arena in 2014
Background information
Birth name	Michael Barson
Born	(1958-04-21) 21 April 1958 (age 67) Edinburgh, Scotland
Genres	Ska pop new wave 2-tone
Occupation(s)	Multi-instrumentalist songwriter composer
Instruments	Keyboards piano organ harmonica vibraphone guitar saxophone
Years active	1976–1984 1992–present
Labels	2 Tone Stiff Virgin V2 Go! Discs Lucky 7
Associated acts	Madness Suggs

Michael Barson (born 21 April 1958) is a British musician. He plays many instruments, writes songs, and creates music. For over 45 years, Barson has been famous as the keyboard player for the band Madness.

Early Life and Music Start

Michael Barson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. He grew up in North London with his two brothers, Dan and Ben. Both of his brothers are also musicians. People often call him "Monsieur Barso" or "Barzo."

Before starting the band Madness, Barson and his friend Lee Thompson were known for their graffiti art. They spray-painted their nicknames, "Mr B" and "Kix," around North London. This was inspired by the graffiti art scene in New York City.

In 1976, Barson helped start a band called The Invaders. Later, the band changed its name to Madness. They chose this name after a song by the artist Prince Buster.

Michael Barson's Music Career

Madness became a very popular British band. This happened from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s. They first became famous as part of the Two-Tone music style. Barson was, and still is, a key songwriter for the band. He also helps guide the band's music.

He left the band in 1984 after their fifth album, Keep Moving. He also appeared in music videos for songs from that album. These songs were "Michael Caine" and "One Better Day." Madness broke up two years later. However, Barson joined them to record their last song, "(Waiting For) The Ghost Train."

Madness got back together in 1992 with all their original members. Barson still plays with them today. In 1995, he helped write and produce songs for Suggs' first solo album. Suggs is another member of Madness.

Barson also played piano on a song called "Everything in Time." This was for the band No Doubt's album Rock Steady. The song was not on the main album. It was released later on a special collection of songs. Barson and Suggs also worked with the band Audio Bullys. They appeared on two songs, "Twist Me Up" and "Goodbye."

Michael Barson's Views

Michael Barson has shared his thoughts on politics. In 2016, he told a website that he was part of a group called Momentum. This group supports certain political ideas. He also said he voted for Jeremy Corbyn in a leadership election. Barson explained that he joined because he heard negative things about the group. He thought he should check it out for himself.