MICHAEL JOHNSON has performed and lived more music and recorded more hits than you would imagine.

His voice immediately identifies him as the man who sings “Bluer Than Blue,” “Give Me Wings,” “That’s That,” and other landmark songs. His music shows a diversity, depth and heart that only come from years of dedication to a labor of love.

When asked what he would have you know about himself, Michael says:

“Tell them that I love it.” He started playing at age thirteen and just never quit. Singing, playing, writing and recording are the only things he’s ever done and he loves it.

“Tell them I play guitar.” He really plays guitar. He studied in Barcelona and he plays on all his records with a unique and distinctive style. His playing is an important part of his show.

“I am a soloist at heart.” Michael often performs alone, and he has elevated the art. He prefers the intimacy and spontaneity of a show that can change with the moment.

“Tell them I’m a showman. I like to talk to people and I love to make them laugh. And, of course, I have to move them with the music. That’s the whole thing. Without that, there is no reason to be on stage.”

What one remembers of Michael is the texture of his voice, the meaning of the lyric and the music of the guitar — singer, song and sound. And the feeling of being at home with a friend.