– Michael Watford Gospel House Music
– Minister of Gospel House Music Dies.
Michael Watford, Gospel House Singer, Passes Away at 64
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Michael Wayne Watford, a renowned church-trained club singer, passed away on January 26 at the age of 64. Born on July 20, 1959, in Suffolk, Va., Watford spent most of his childhood in Newark. His mother, the Rev. Betty Brower, was a gospel singer, and his stepfather, George Brower, also had a passion for gospel music.
Watford’s musical talent was evident from a young age, and he began singing in the choir at Greater Bethel Baptist Church in Newark. After high school, he joined a gospel quartet called the Mack Zion Rens, where he had the opportunity to sing alongside his stepfather.
Despite his passion for music, Watford faced financial struggles during his early years and worked various jobs, including pumping gas, operating a forklift, and running a janitorial business, while pursuing his dream of becoming a singer.
Birth of Gospel House Music
In the late 1980s, house music was dominating dance clubs in New York, Chicago, and London. It was during this time that Watford joined forces with Smack Productions, a record label based in Passaic, N.J. They produced records for several house acts, including Adeva, K-Yze, and Ten City.
Watford’s breakthrough came in 1991 when he collaborated with Smack and DJ Roger Sanchez on the gospel-influenced club track “Holdin’ On.” The song became a club hit and led to Watford securing an album deal.
His first single, “Luv 4-2,” released in 1993, reached No. 7 on Billboard’s club play chart. However, it was his signature hit, “So Into You,” that propelled him to greater recognition. The song featured Watford’s romantic, yearning vocals, reminiscent of Luther Vandross, and became an instant hit, topping the Billboard dance chart in April 1994.
Legacy and Personal Life
Watford’s contribution to the gospel house subgenre of club music was widely acknowledged within the music industry. DJ Tony Humphries described “So Into You” as one of the essential records that every club had to have during that time.
Throughout his career, Watford collaborated with notable artists such as Little Louie Vega, La India, Colonel Abrams, and Jay Williams. However, in 1995, he faced setbacks when Merlin Bobb, the co-founder of his record label, left, and Watford was subsequently dropped by the label.
Despite these challenges, Watford’s talent and voice remained unparalleled. Many believe that he could have revitalized his sound and made a successful comeback if he had connected with the newer generation of producers.
Outside of his music career, Watford managed a series of karaoke bars in New Jersey before taking an administrative job at a welfare office in Essex County. His stepsister, Ruby Washington, expressed her belief that singing was Watford’s true calling in life.
Final Words
On January 26, the music world lost a truly exceptional talent. Michael Watford’s voice, influenced by his gospel roots, left an indelible mark on the club music scene of the early 1990s. His dedication to his craft and his unique vocal style will always be remembered and cherished by fans of gospel house music.
Watford is survived by his mother, Rev. Betty Brower, his two younger brothers, Duncan and Terrance Artis Watford, and his children, Michael Watford Jr., Symphony Watford, and Taylor Watford. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of hearing his soulful voice.
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1. Michael Watford Minister of Gospel House Music
2. Gospel House Music Minister Michael Watford.
