Michael Mayo is an American singer, composer, and vocal innovator born on June 1, 1992, in Los Angeles, California. He is considered one of the youngest leading contemporary vocalists of his generation.
Mayo grew up in the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles, enveloped in a musical environment. His parents are both accomplished musicians:
Mayo attended the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, where he was inspired to become a professional jazz vocalist after singer Gretchen Parlato visited his school. He earned a bachelor's degree in jazz vocal performance from the New England Conservatory of Music. In 2015, he was the third vocalist ever accepted to the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz (now the Herbie Hancock Institute) at UCLA, studying with legends such as Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Dianne Reeves.
Mayo released his debut album, "Bones," in 2021 on Mack Avenue Records, produced by Eli Wolf. His sophomore album, "Fly," followed in October 2024, also on Mack Avenue Records. He has toured and performed with notable artists including:
He has performed at prestigious venues such as the White House, Kennedy Center, and Renée Fleming's American Voices Festival. In 2022, Mayo was named "International Artist of the Year" at the Deutscher Jazzpreis (German Jazz Prize).
Mayo's music is characterized by an innovative blend of neo-soul, R&B, jazz, and funk-fusion. He views his voice as a musical instrument, incorporating styles such as Brian Wilson-style pop harmonies, Stevie Wonder R&B, drum and bass, and hip-hop. He utilizes technology, especially looper pedals, to expand his musical capability, creating a seamless blend of alternative and neo-soul elements.
Mayo has toured South America as Herbie Hancock's featured vocalist and performed with his band at prominent venues like The Hollywood Bowl, The Monterey Jazz Festival, The London Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, and the Atlanta Jazz Festival. Noteworthy collaborations include work with:
Additionally, Mayo has been featured on multiple albums by drummer Nate Smith and released two EPs with the Shrek-themed jazz/R&B band Shrek Is Love in 2017 and 2018.
Originally from Los Angeles, Mayo lived in New York City for several years before returning to L.A. in October 2023. He has been candid about his personal journey, describing his debut album "Bones" as a letter to himself about his experience of being in the closet for years.
Michael Mayo's distinctive vocal style and innovative approach to music have set him apart in the contemporary jazz and neo-soul scenes, marking him as a forward-thinking artist in the music industry.
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