Guest Information
Michael English
Website: www.michaelenglishmusic.com
Twitter: @menglish001
CD: “Some People Change”
About Michael English
Thirteen years ago, Michael English was amidst the top of the contemporary Christian music crop, not to mention the pinnacle of his musical ministry. Outside of widespread fanfare and critical acclaim, that season also found the famed singer winning fourteen Dove Awards, including the highly coveted “Artist of the Year.” Though the celebrated evening would be amongst his most treasured professional highs, the very next day found his personal life shattering into a million slices. Over the course of the next several years, that highly publicized fall from grace went from bad to worse, with a series of regretful decisions leaving the star spiritually, physically, emotionally and financially bankrupt. Despite spiraling further than anyone could ever imagine, Michael had a life changing encounter with God several years ago and his life was dramatically renewed. Between now and then, the performer picked up the pieces with pastoral accountability and being grounded in the gospel, while simultaneously rekindling his love for artistry and public expression (as accounted in a recent autobiography). Outside of putting words to paper, he’s also returned to crafting songs in the studio, chronicling an unparalleled season of growth and redemption on the aptly titled The Prodigal Comes Home. “We made sure these songs weren’t just a bunch of sad recollections of Michael English’s old life,” the performer shares with signature wit of his most vital, introspective, encouraging and empowering effort to date. “We wanted an album where people could relate to what I’m talking about and inspire them wherever they’re at in life. Hopefully the majority of songs on this record tell simple truths that people can relate to and provide hope even when it feels hopeless.”
Though he chuckles at the whirlwind-like series of events, the track provides a particularly striking account of rebirth in all areas, which he’s even more humbled to talk about given the series of previous missteps. Not only has English been completely delivered from all substances, but also experienced a second chance at starting a family, which he credits as the ultimate miracle. “Sometimes I worry about how this will sound, but at the same time, I believe it’s totally true — my wife basically saved my life,” the tunesmith asserts of Marcie, his bride since 2002. “The reason why I say that is I believe God ultimately saves us, but God also sends people and does things to guide us in the right direction. We have a very strong marriage and the most amazing family to the point where I couldn’t even see my life without her at this point!” Beyond the couple’s unbreakable bonds, they also welcomed the beautiful baby Issabella Grace in 2004 (Michael’s second child following in the footsteps of his older daughter Megan). Though the family hit a bump in the road when Marcie recently miscarried twins, they’ve worked through all the hurt and pain under the assurance that those babies are in a better place. “Even with bad news, God can turn your life around,” English assures. “My wife and I had a really hard time hearing that news, but I think God allows these things to happen sometimes so we can understand what others go through. Now when someone comes up and says they’ve experienced a miscarriage, we know the pain of it, but we can also provide comfort that we’ll see them in heaven.”