(January 31, 2024) He was a forceful voice who helped define the House Music sound of the 90s and 00s, and he did it with aplomb. Today we are sad to report the passing of noted singer Michael Watford, at age 61.
The Virginia native emerged with the burgeoning house scene In the late 1980s, blending his gospel roots with the pulsating beats of the genre. His breakthrough came with the release of the iconic track "So Into You" in 1994, which hit #1 and became a classic in the dance music world. The song showcased Watford's incredible vocal range and his ability to infuse soulful emotion into electronic beats. It also became the featured track on his self-titled album of the same year.
(January 31, 2024) He was a forceful voice who helped define the House Music sound of the 90s and 00s, and he did it with aplomb. Today we are sad to report the passing of noted singer Michael Watford, at age 61.
The Virginia native emerged with the burgeoning house scene In the late 1980s, blending his gospel roots with the pulsating beats of the genre. His breakthrough came with the release of the iconic track "So Into You" in 1994, which hit #1 and became a classic in the dance music world. The song showcased Watford's incredible vocal range and his ability to infuse soulful emotion into electronic beats. It also became the featured track on his self-titled album of the same year.
Throughout his career, Michael Watford served as lead singer on dozens of house tracks (including “Reach On Up” and “Love Change Over”) working with renowned producers and DJs. He also contributed supporting vocals to numerous charting tracks by artists ranging from En Vogue to Masters At Work.
As house music producer Pete Heller posted today, “Michael's gospel trained voice was so strong and powerful we had a challenge with the backing vocals as he just dominated the other singers. Anyway, this was best of the mixes - long and dubby and aimed at the late night and after hours groovers.”
Importantly, his work in the 90s proved seminal in the House Music world, and still resonates with artists and audiences today. Rest in peace.
Thanks to Disco Soul Gold's Gary Van den Bussche for letting us know