Michael Grimm, Winner of NBC's America's Got Talent, to Release Self-Titled Album on Epic Records May 17th

NEW YORK, March 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The attributes that led Michael Grimm to win season five of NBC's America's Got Talent (AGT), including his sincere humility and undeniable talent has earned him a devoted fanbase of millions eagerly anticipating the release of his first major label debut with Epic Records due out on May 17th.  The southern crooner goes back to his roots for his self-titled album, working with Grammy-award winning producer Don Was, (The Rolling Stones, Elton John and Bonnie Raitt among others) staying true to his Americana meets blue-eyed soul sound, creating carefully crafted rock songs with a mature soulful delivery.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110310/NY62503 )

"I became aware of Michael Grimm several years ago and jumped at the chance to work with him after he won AGT," says producer Don Was. "Michael is one of the greatest vocalists I have ever had the privilege to record. He is a world class singer with a level of professionalism that is extremely rare."

There is no denying the talent of Michael Grimm since winning AGT with a record number of votes. This album will feature both original music written by Grimm as well as some classic covers and sounds that earned him the title of fan favorite on AGT.  Lending their legendary talents to Grimm's record include Ann Wilson (Heart), Ian McLagan (Faces and work with Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, John Mayer), Davey Faragher (Elvis Costello, Cracker) and Greg Leisz (Avenged Sevenfold, The Eagles). Also, having played on over 30 Grammy-nominated albums, Kenny Aronoff provides drums on the album and the famous Waddy Wachtel, best know for his work with Keith Richards, Stevie Nicks and James Taylor, on guitar.

"It's me," describes Michael Grimm of his self-titled album. "I am extremely proud of this album, it really showcases my love for different genres of music from country to soul R&B to rock, the classic Americana that I grew up with."

Self described as "just a boy from Mississippi," Grimm has close ties to his southern roots.  His decision to audition for America's Got Talent came from having grandparents who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Grimm has said he is committed to using a portion of his prize money to give them a new home which was lost in the storm.   Grimm was raised by his grandparents who encouraged his musical talents from an early age.  By the time Grimm was 12 years old, he was performing locally with his grandmother applauding him at every show.  At 15 Grimm was writing and playing his own music when he began to blend the two genres of country and soul.  In years since, he has moved to Las Vegas, where he has maintained a busy performance schedule, perfecting his soulful sound and remains committed to creating real music.

Judge Piers Morgan insisted Grimm's victory was well deserved: "Michael's genuine, he's sincere, he's very talented...He'll have a huge career. I think he's like a young Van Morrison."

http://www.michaelgrimmmusic.com/

SOURCE Epic Records