Michael Bolton, born Michael Bolotin on February 26, 1953, in New Haven, Connecticut, is an American singer, songwriter, and philanthropist. He began his career in the mid-1970s but rose to international fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with powerful ballads like "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You" and "When a Man Loves a Woman."
His best-selling albums include Soul Provider (1989), Time, Love & Tenderness (1991)—which sold over 16 million copies—and Timeless: The Classics (1992), a highly successful covers album. Over his long career, he has released more than 26 studio albums and has sold over 75 million records worldwide. Known for his "blue-eyed soul" style, he also wrote hit songs for other artists.
Bolton has won two Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, and holds a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beyond music, he is recognized for his philanthropic work—establishing a charity to support women and children affected by abuse, which earned him numerous humanitarian accolades.
In late 2023, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer (glioblastoma) and underwent emergency surgery. After a second operation due to complications, and completion of chemotherapy and radiation, he continues to recover, monitoring his health closely. Despite these challenges, he remains determined to return to music, carried by a profound sense of gratitude and resilience.