Renowned as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and performer, Michael Cristiano has built a remarkable career steeped in versatility and creativity. In this exclusive interview, we touch on his beginnings, inspired by Elvis Presley’s electrifying performances, and his evolution into a globally respected music director and producer. With decades of experience, including his pivotal role with The Seekers and his recent all-Italian album, Michael opens up about the personal significance of his projects, the artistry behind music production, and the thrill of live performance. From crafting multi-platinum albums to exploring new frontiers in Latin music, his dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Whether sharing his advice for aspiring artists or reflecting on the defining moments of his career, Michael Cristiano offers an inspiring look into his world.
Michael Cristiano, welcome to A&R Factory! Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us and discuss your storied and accoladed career as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer and performer. Before we cover your achievements, we’d love to hear how you discovered and honed your skills.
I remember watching Elvis Presley in “Viva Las Vegas” on TV one night with my grandmother. I couldn’t have been more than three or four years old. Elvis was playing the guitar, singing and dancing with Ann Margaret. I was entranced. Not long after that, I watched the ’68 Comeback Special, which featured classic footage of Elvis playing the guitar and singing in black leather. I knew then – that’s what I wanted to do. I became obsessed with the guitar and started classical guitar lessons at the age of six delving into further studies in jazz, rock, composition and arrangement in my early teens.
You’ve been the Music Director and Producer for The Seekers since 1992 and joined The Original Seekers as the fourth voice in 2019. How has your experience with such iconic groups shaped your approach to music production and performance?
I am blessed to have worked with some of the greatest artists in the world throughout my career, but The Seekers were perhaps the most influential. They trusted me with producing their “sound”, and Judith Durham often said that I was the only producer since Tom Springfield (their original producer) who could re-create the magic that was The Seekers. Working with the group opened many doors for me professionally, and I am forever indebted to them for their trust and friendship. Being asked to be the ‘fourth voice’ in ‘The Original Seekers’ was the icing on the cake, and I’m thrilled and honoured to be part of Australian music history now.
Your all-Italian album, released on November 1, 2024, showcases your versatility as a singer, musician, and producer. What inspired you to explore this particular project, and what does it mean to you personally?
I have always wanted to record an all-Italian album of original songs as I have been a fan of Italian pop music since I was a child. My father bought me a vinyl single of Italian singer/songwriter Nicola Di Bari’s hit “Chitarra Suona Più Piano” and I was hooked from my first listen.
I enjoyed every minute of recording all the songs on the album. I played all the instruments, sang all the vocals and produced the entire project. To see it resonate so strongly with international audiences is a dream come true.
You’ve produced multi-platinum albums for legends like The Seekers, Russell Morris, and Mirusia. How does your approach differ when producing for other artists versus working on your own music?
When producing my own music, I’m free to explore different styles and musical genres, whether jazz, blues or classical. When producing other artists, staying true to their style and identity is crucial. A producer’s job in that situation is to bring the artist’s vision to life and make them and their songs sound as good as possible.
What do you enjoy most about being on stage, and how does it compare to the creative process in the studio?
I love working in the studio, but nothing beats the feeling of playing in front of a live audience. That is what music is really about – performing, communicating with an audience live, in the moment. That’s one of the most special feelings there are.
With your latest album being added to international radio, how does it feel to have your solo work resonate with such a wide audience?
I’m thrilled with the reaction the album is getting around the world. I knew there was something special about this album when I first started recording the songs and seeing audiences worldwide react so positively to the music was wonderful.
Your career spans decades, and you’ve excelled as a singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and performer. What moments stand out as the most defining or pivotal in your musical journey?
Many moments stand out to me, first playing my first ‘paying gig’ when I was just twelve years old. Two years later, I started my first band, ‘Rebel’, with friends from school, later known as ‘7th Avenue’. I joined the show band ‘Koco’ in my late teens and backed many of the biggest international acts of the day that toured Australia. Following this, I played with The Seekers in 1988, became their Musical Director in 1990, and Record Producer in 1992. Producing my first platinum-selling album, ‘The Seekers – The 25 Year Reunion Celebration’ is another definite highlight.
Can you share more about the direction you’re heading with your upcoming projects?
I’m about to record two songs from my Italian album “Mai Finirà” with Spanish lyrics, and I’m very excited about releasing new material for the Latin music market. There’s also a new album in the works, so stay tuned, folks.
Reflecting on your extensive career, what advice would you offer to aspiring musicians and producers hoping to make their mark in the industry?
The best advice I can offer to up-and-coming musicians is to work with as many different musicians as possible. Make an effort to work with musicians that are better than you. Listen and learn as much as you can. Never, ever give up. Most importantly, practice. Work at your craft, always. It doesn’t matter what you have to say as a musician, a singer, a songwriter or a record producer if you haven’t developed the skills to express your ideas – oh, and practice, practice, practice.
Discover Michael Cristiano’s work on Spotify and his official website.
Interview by Amelia Vandergast
