“It was always a great honor for me to work from 1996 through 2011, in the group that backed up Elvis for the first fifteen years of his career and for me were his best. They not only influenced Elvis throughout his career, they also influenced the greatest group of our times, “The Beatles”. I remember as a child hearing Elvis singing “Don’t Be Cruel” on the radio and singing along to the “Bop Bops” thinking WOW these guys are COOL, and YES they really are! Not only as fellow musicians but as wonderful friends. I have learned so much from these wonderful folks, Gordon Stoker, Neal Mathews, Ray Walker, Duane West, Louis Nunley, Curtis Young “Mr. Harmony” and yes Ms. Millie Kirkham. For this I am truly grateful”.
Curtis Young
I met Michael Black in the late seventies. What a nice friendly guy he was. We worked a little together in the studio, but we really got to know each other in the early eighties, when we shared the big screen in the Patsy Cline movie “Sweet Dreams”, starring Jessica Lange and Ed Harris. Since then we have worked together a lot in the studio, and have become very good friends. Michael is an excellent singer and song writer. He has subbed for Gordon Stoker, Louis Nunley, and for me as well in the Jordanaires Quartet, over the past fifteen years, when we were unable to be there. He can adapt to each of our ranges and you would never know when we are not there. I have never met anyone who doesn’t like Michael Black. He is one of the most likeable people I have ever met. He knows the music business inside and out, and is always there to help if you are in need. I couldn’t ask for a better friend or co-worker than Michael Black. I’m very proud to call him my friend. He’s the best. God Bless you Michael.
Gordon Stoker
Michael Black has been singing, and writing arrangements for The Jordanaires for some time. There are times when he has to sing a different part, as that voice part was unable to sing today. At times we have a problem pleasing the director of the recording session, but Michael is always ready to please whomever we are recording for.
Michael always comes through with good work and a big smile. He has especially been nice to me during my illness.
Ray Walker
I have known Michael for so many years I can’t remember, exactly. Firstly, from his reputation as an all-round talent in the music business, working, mostly, with other groups or forming one for special occasions. I heard his commercial solo-ism—wonderful—songs written by his own hand. Then, an occasion arose where we needed a special voice to work in “The Jordanaires”. I had witnessed him, singing all parts, with an incredible range, (raise the pitch high enough and he could sing bass—this I, highly, discouraged, for personal reasons) so I suggested him for our needed part and we’ve never looked back. Michael Black is an unsung-hero in the music business. I love and respect him, as we all do.
Louis Nunley
Michael,
You know I’ve always been a vocal group lover and when I have the opportunity to work with someone who has the talent, musicality, aptitude and attitude like you who also loves it, it’s a great day! Keep the music coming!
Shots from both studio and stage of Michael performing with the legendary Jordanaires.
