Bio
Born in Indianapolis Indiana and raised in southern California, Michael has been involved with music for over 45 years, chiefly playing and teaching the guitar. His earliest influences include the Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys and many other inspiring musical legends. Early in his musical career, Michael spent several years touring with rock bands throughout the country; and even performed at the prestigious Hollywood Bowl. Upon returning to southern California, he turned his efforts toward acoustic guitar – more touring ensued throughout America, England, Wales, Scotland, and other countries. His latest CD, entitled Troubadour, was recorded in Nashville.
Although music performance has been his focus, he eventually became an entrepreneur. He established a thriving musical instrument store in Santa Barbara, Ca. He says that his finer experiences were being a backline support to many of his musical influences: CSN, Elton John, Jackson Brown, Kenny G, Neil Young and a host of others greats.
He eventually invented several lines musical accessory concepts that are distributed in over 40 countries. The most well-known product line is called Mighty Bright, the world’s first battery operated, clip-on musician’s light. These lights are used by the biggest names in the industry, including: U2, Robert Plant, Barbara Streisand, the American Idol stage, The Voice, Glee, David Foster, Randy Waldman and Celine Deon, George Benson, and these best-selling music stand lights are used for orchestras, schools, colleges, and places of worship.
Michael has worked from home for over 20 years and still performs, mostly locally. Connecting with audiences, he has a soft-spoken voice – talking and singing. He weaves life-stories and humor into his concerts. His unique playing style and silky smooth vocals will certainly turn some heads plus bring inspiration and joy during a concert evening. He has garnered millions of views on social media and has over 150,000 followers.
“What do you get when you hear a heart thumping bass line, colorful gritty chord progressions, a powerful infectious groove, all the while a melody sings on the high strings – and great vocals to make it all even better…finger style guitarist, Michael Farley! Nuff said.”
-Tim Thompson: Nashville guitarist/producer and two time, first place winner at the International Guitar
Festival
Michael resides with his wife Cathy of 49 years in Leakey, Texas – they enjoy ranch life, raising chickens, rabbits, and growing gardens; they have raised four children, and have five grandchildren. He has a B.A. degree from L.A. Bible College, and has been active in leading worship for over 35 years; he also arranges hymns for acoustic guitar.
