Read what Michael had to
say about the album:
This album certainly isn't the one we originally set out to make. Our first idea was loosely based on the theme of "Anthems". But when NIgel Wright, my producer, and I started working and throwing ideas around, we kept being drawn to favourite songs which, although quite often anthemic in style, were nonetheless love songs. It became clear that these songs - some suggested by friends, family and fans alike - had a common thread and made a very satisfying whole. An so perhaps we have made an album of anthems - anthems of love.
The title "First Love" (open to your own interpretation) was actually inspired by the song "The Rose". A beautiful rose bush, planted by us in the memory of a dear friend, is named First Love and dedicated to Angela McGowan. And that song inspired the album. I has turned out to be one of the most enjoyable, creative and satisfying periods of work I've had.
I must thank many people for the privilege, not least Nigel, Robin and Lee. But thanks also to Kip, Ronnie, Jo & Joe and everyone at Columbia / Sony Musia. To James and Gavin, Michelle and Tom, and all in the office. To Alex and Nick. To Cathy, Emma, Mum and Dad, and everyone in the families. Callum, Mike, Dae and a bunch of great singers, musicians and writers (not forgetting Uncle Tom and the boys in the Mountain Ash Male Voice Choir). And all those - too numerous to mention - who helped us. But of course, most importantly, the fans - wihtout whose support and encouragement there would be no point in it all.
Love Michael x
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The Rose
