Album Notes

"Jon - I love your music! It's Chicken Soup for my soul. Keep up the good work spreading love, light, joy and fun. Jack Canfield - Co author Chicken Soup For The Soul Series


The song "Smile" should be made into a movie--what a story this song has to tell! In his liner notes, Michaels says it's a true story-the song makes you want to hear more about what really happened in that prison cell. Then there's "Miss Fannie" another great story song. Seems that Michaels has developed a real knack for writing the story songs! while his story songs capture your attention, there are other songs like "Hello, My Old Friend" and "The ones That Get Away" that also share bits of philosophy with the listener. Michaels has studied the craft of song writing, yet he doesn't allow it to get in the way of writing what he needs to write.

by Vernell Hackett-Jan/2002 American Songwriter Magazine


JON MICHAELS - Stones: was recorded one magical night by singer, songwriter and guitarist Jon Michaels. He has a varied list of credentials for award winning songs and was the co-composer of the official song 'We're Fired Up' for the Tennessee Titans radio network. Michaels started out on the west coast playing gigs, later he moved to Nashville to absorb the flavor and feel of country's capital. Jon's compositions incorporate the Nashville sound with traditional six-string rock songs. Jon has a strong, smooth baritone and masterful vocal inflections. He writes fun, insightful songs about life, love and forgiveness. Jon's love of music shines through out this entertaining and well-produced CD. Michaels sings with feeling and emotion and is supported by talented musicians. My favorites on this 13-track collection were 'The Smile' with its sweet soulful mood and beautiful vocals. 'I Would Be Next to U' is a witty, upbeat song with some great keyboards. 'Miss Fannie' has a deep feel and is a powerful reminder to thank God for the special people in our lives. Jon's CD Stones is a clean crisp collection of live songs that are both heartfelt and fun.
• Recommended Tracks: (4,5,6) [USA/TN 2001 - (Review by Laura Turner Lynch for Kweevak.com)


Up-and-coming Nashville singer/songwriter Jon Michaels makes an unconventional debut with this live recording. Backed by a crack combo of Nashville session players, including long-time Lyle Lovett/Terry McBride guitarist Ray Herndon, Michaels rips out a well-honed set of contemporary country and romantic pop tunes dating back to 1994. Armed with an appealing baritone and charm to spare, Jon (whose bio includes a stint with the New Christie Minstrels) has the hometown crowd under his spell from the start. His weakness for greeting-card sentiment (if I hear the phrase "from the cradle to the grave one more time, I'm gonna scream) is not only forgiven but embraced by a loving audience that can't seem to get enough. Those enraptured by Jackson Browne, James Taylor, Jim Croce and the like will surely eat this up.

Demo Universe Reviews