Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Cates.
Hi Michael, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a professional saxophonist and recording artist. I’ve spent the better part of 45 years perfecting my craft. I’ve been performing professionally since the age of 15. My music led me to an acting career as well, where I worked in TV and commercials earning my SAG card almost 30!years ago.
I’ve performed and recorded with a multitude of artists throughout the years as well as having been balloted for the 2026 Grammy Awards.
I’ve recorded 4 solo albums and produced over 60 albums and singles.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nothing worthwhile is ever a smooth road. Ask anyone who has ever chased a dream. It’s full of disappointment, betrayal and outright theft. And if that’s not enough you face an ever present expiration date. If you’re good with that and are tenacious enough to keep going it is filled with rewards and memories too precious to comprehend.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My instrument, the saxophone, leads the player in the path of jazz and its many subcategories- such as smooth and contemporary jazz. I compete in those arenas.
My singles remain top 20 worldwide since 2023. I’m featured on SiriusXM Watercolors as well as most radio stations worldwide. You can always catch one of my 58 published pieces on the air.
Recognition by my peers by way of the first ballot for the 2026 Grammys is something I’m very proud of. My time on the TV series Ally McBeal, 5 seasons, is another.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m looking forward to the release of my single “Judith Lorraine” on Nov 17th 2025. A song written for my wife that should not have had to be written. I wrote it to her on the day of her diagnosis with a large spinal cord tumor in August. On our anniversary no less. It is a song of power and healing that I wanted her to fix her mind too while facing this horrific surgery.
She did and she beat all the odds. Now I want her song to do the same thing on the charts. It was not intended for this, but it was her wish that others might gain strength from it too.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @michaelcatesmusic
- Facebook: @michaelcates
- Youtube: @michaelcatesmusic
