A year in review is a powerful tool for self-reflection and planning. It allows you to appreciate the journey you’ve taken, acknowledge your growth, and set your intentions for the future. Chicago recording artist Irene Michaels enjoyed a celebrated year in 2023 with its closing earning her an award for “Best Pop Song” for her hit “I Like Rain” at the prestigious independent music gurus Josie Music Awards. She was also honored with a House Music Award for her contributions to house and EDM sounds at the biggest LGBTQ magazine’s Get Out Magazine Awards.
Although Irene spent much of the early year of 2024 in the studio recording sparks started to fly in June when she performed at the after Pride Parade Party in New York City at The Penthouse where she mesmerized the LGBTQ crowd with her charm and sophistication. Also, in June Irene shared the stage with the country group “The Heels” and Nicole Nystrom at the Arcada Theater in Illinois.
The Jazz Showcase welcomed Irene Michaels and Friends on July 9, 2024. Then in August The Taylor Street Festival at Chicago’s Little Italy had Irene performing with Tony Ocean and the Rat Pack at Carnivale.
September 22, 2024 was the 40th Anniversary of the United Nations International Peace Day and the kick off to Climate Week. This was celebrated at the cornerstone of the World in Times Square with a five hour concert called “Pause The World For Peace.” Irene played a special role that day when she performed her hit song “I Like Rain” as 330,000 onlookers strolled by. Also in October Irene was honored to perform at the Durham Woods Riding club’s 90th anniversary party.
Irene was nominated in two categories for a Josie Music Award this year once again. She was set to perform at the CMA Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, however she was forced to cancel due to illness. However, on October 25, 2024 her new hit single “My Heart” was released via Tribeca Records and is steadily climbing the charts. The song was written and produced by the iconic DJ Joe Smooth and promises to become a huge gay anthem.
November came with the promise of Love as Irene and Tony Award winning, Big Apple Circus owner Arny Granat renewed their wedding vows. The power Chicago/ Hollywood couple had a glorious soirée. Irene was Also nominated in several categories for the Broadway World online Awards. Stay tuned for the outcome in 2025.
Then off to New York to perform at comedian Ike Avelli’s “50 Shades of Gay: A Christmas Cabaret.” Dressed as a sexy elf, Irene opened the show with her rendition of “Santa Baby”, setting the stage and the evening for the rest of the festivities. Irene also made the December cover of Jukebox Time and received a commemorative plaque from BMS Radio Network for “My Heart.”
2025 is already a promising year for Irene with a gig at the Epiphany Arts Center in Chicago on January 25th…..
The official website for Irene Michaels may be found at https://www.irenemichaels.com