Social Media
Twitter @UpTheWay Hov
Instagram @Influential_Michael
Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6XCbmYl9ICFXbNi1QVmnt4?si=icm8uStaRr2nAszCgK7XMQ&dl_branch=1
BIO
Born David Michael Cheeks, Michael and The Influence grew up in Banbury, located in Warrensville Heights, a southeastern suburb of Cleveland, Ohio. Raised in a drug addiction and poverty stricken home, Michael was exposed to the streetlife at an early age and helplessly watched as crack cocaine ravaged his family. His role models were his older brother and uncle who introduced him to hustling and Hip-Hop. Michael quickly fell in love with the art of music, spouting out song lyrics at just five years old. After the tragic death of his uncle, Micheal decided to make music his career choice and became a student of hip-hop culture, developing his unique talent of storytelling influenced by Nas and Jay-Z.
As he got older, his reputation quickly grew in the streets, known for his cunning freestyles and the ability to rap about his real life experiences in the druggame. Eventually, life in the fast lane caught up to Micheal causing him to be arrested and charged for drug possession. He served a ten year prison sentence but used the time to educate himself, study politics and put a business plan into place determined never to lose his freedom again. In December of 2019, Michael was released from prison and established his company, Major Influence Media. From there he launched a podcast, YouTube channel and last but not least reignited his music career.
