Michael was raised in rural Texarkana, Texas but has called Nashville home since his early thirties. Michael, ever-humble, attributes his success to his love of the craft. He is a GRAMMY and Billboard nominated, GMA Dove Award-winning songwriter and producer, yet still not one to draw attention to his accomplishments or top-tier artists with whom he collaborates and enjoys numerous cuts. Even in his humility, his successes are undeniable.

Michael co-wrote the title track of Reba McEntire’s GRAMMY award-winning and critically acclaimed Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope album. This album earned Reba’s CMA Nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year (2017) and GMA Dove Award wins for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Album of the Year. Michael also wrote the #1 hit “Trust In You” (Lauren Daigle), which earned GRAMMY and Billboard  Music nominations as well as a GMA Dove Award win.

His catalog also includes the global worship anthem, “Let It Rain” as recorded by Michael W. Smith, “Let The Worshipers Arise,” recorded by Phillips Craig & Dean, and “Say Amen,” recorded by Finding Favour. Michael’s songs have also been recorded by Natalie Grant, Big Daddy Weave, Aaron Shust, Unspoken, Jason Crabb, Hawk Nelson, Karen Peck & New River, and The Blind Boys Of Alabama, along with so many more.

Yet, in an industry where it is all-too-often that accomplished writers rest on their success and accreditation, he does precisely the opposite, working tirelessly to pursue his craft. He is currently a staff writer at Curb/Word Nashville and calls Music Row his second home. Monday through Friday, you can find him within those iconic halls, collaborating with platinum-tier hitmakers and bright rising newcomers alike.

He credits his sanity to writing. For Michael, songwriting isn’t a choice or a luxury; it is his lifeblood, a necessity.

In addition to worship, Michael is currently placing a significant amount of his focus on projects in the country and Americana spaces. With a warm tone akin to the roar and crackle of a well-stoked fire, Michael’s voice is well-suited for the grittiness of the genre.  His sound is the fervor of a fight, the callous of a working-man’s hands, the burn of a good shot of whiskey, with a tender side rivaling to the dewy air of a foggy mountain morning. Much like his songwriting, Michael’s vocal quality draws you in, entices you to stay, and leaves you with something for the road when you go. 

His songs reach even the most guarded hearts, encouraging non-believers to turn an eye toward the sky, making you want to raise your glass and holler. His stories and melodies linger long after they end.

This is Michael Farren.