Michael Franks: The Cool and Smooth Voice of Jazz

Introduction

Michael Franks has been enchanting audiences with his seductive voice, lyrical genius, and breezy melodies for more than four decades. A prolific composer and performer, his music transcends genres, blending elements of jazz, pop, and Latin. In this article, we explore some interesting facts about Michael Franks, including his bio, age, relationships, children, height, career, top songs, net worth, and more.

Who is Michael Franks?

Born in La Jolla, California, on September 18, 1944, Michael Franks grew up in a family of musicians. His parents, both accomplished musicians, exposed him to a wide range of music from a young age. Franks learned to play the guitar and started writing songs in his teens. After attending the University of California, Los Angeles, he moved to New York City to pursue his music career.

Age

Michael Franks is now in his late 70s, having celebrated his 77th birthday on September 18, 2021.

Relationships and Family

Franks has been married twice. He married his first wife, June, in the early 1970s. They had two children, a son named Rainey and a daughter named Augusta. Franks and June separated in the mid-80s, and he re-married a few years later to Claudia Cummings, who is a gifted pianist and arranger. They have been together ever since.

Children

Michael Franks has two children from his first marriage: Rainey, who became a musician and music producer like his father, and Augusta, who pursued a career in the design industry.

Height

There is no official information on Michael Franks’ height, but he appears to be around 5’9″ in most photos and videos.

Career

Franks started his music career as a songwriter, penning tunes for a variety of artists in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He signed his first recording contract with Brut Records in 1973 and released his debut album, “The Art of Tea,” the following year. The album garnered critical acclaim and featured the hit single “Popsicle Toes,” which became a jazz standard. Franks went on to release more than 20 albums, each one showcasing his unique blend of jazz, pop, and world music influences. He has collaborated with numerous artists, including David Sanborn, The Yellowjackets, and Flora Purim, among others. Franks’ music has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, and he has toured extensively throughout his career.

Top Songs

Michael Franks has written and recorded countless memorable songs over the years, but here are a few that top the list:

• “Popsicle Toes” – the song that put Franks on the map and remains a jazz classic.
• “The Lady Wants to Know” – a smooth and sensual tune with a bossa nova vibe.
• “When I Give My Love to You” – a romantic and introspective ballad from the album “Dragonfly Summer.”
• “Tell Me All About It” – a jazzy and upbeat tune featuring Brenda Russell on vocals.
• “Hourglass” – a haunting and hypnotic tune with a Middle Eastern flavor.

Net Worth

Michael Franks has had a successful and enduring career in the music industry and has amassed a sizable net worth over the years. As of 2021, his net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

Conclusion

Michael Franks is a unique and talented artist whose music continues to inspire and delight listeners around the world. His unmistakable voice, lyrical style, and ability to blend genres make him a true icon of modern jazz. As he enters his late seventies, we look forward to hearing more from this legendary artist and finding out what new sounds he has in store for us.