Broadway’s ‘Piano Man’ Trying to Make a Name for Himself

Posted in News on January 20, 2005

BMI songwriter Michael Cavanaugh, pianist and lead vocalist of Tony Award-winning musical Movin' Out, stopped by the New York office recently to showcase some of his original music for BMI staff.

Tony-nominated singer/songwriter Michael Cavanaugh (seated) is greeted by BMI's Antonella DiSaverio, Samantha Cox and Beka Callaway

A rock and roll dance musical based on the music of Billy Joel and choreographed by Twyla Tharp, "Movin' Out" earned Michael a Tony nomination in 2003. He met the real "Piano Man" while performing at the famed New York New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and was soon offered the lead role.

Cavanaugh performs for BMI staff

He has just released his first CD, Sounds a Lot Like Me, which features 12 original songs, including stand outs like "Pretty," "Give It Time" and "Flat on Your Face." While "Movin' Out" has certainly boosted his career, Michael is trying to get his name out there and shed the "Bill Joel guy" title.

Michael's professional career began at age 12 in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. Since then he has performed all over the US and Europe. In addition to being an accomplished entertainer, he has been the voice of an Emmy Award winning kids show character and has composed music for the Disney Channel show JoJo's Circus. He plays several instruments but is best known for his vocal and piano talent. He has also recorded some of his original songs with Grammy Award winning producer, Phil Ramone.

Photos by Dana Rodriguez

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