His music interests, however, were not limited to just country. In fact, by the age of 14 he had developed an appreciation for gospel, R&B and country rock. As a young man Stephen Michael was forced to decide the direction his life would go…football or music. He fielded several offers to play collegiate football from Notre Dame, Florida, Georgia and Pittsburgh…but in the end chose to follow his love of music.

As a young man he played and traveled with several local bands touring throughout the Deep South. Stephen Michael loved the music and loved the people. Playing music caused Stephen Michael to work several jobs to help pay the bills. In 1991, he turned his attention towards becoming a law enforcement officer and, after completing the police academy, became employed as a deputy sheriff. While working at the sheriff's office, he met his best friend and co-writer, John Griffin. After realizing the two shared many of the same interests, they focused on writing songs and playing guitars.

In 1999, both he and John became members of the River City Opry located in Jacksonville, Florida. Stephen Michael performed there until it’s closing. He used this closing door to open the next… his solo career.

Stephen Michael spent the next year developing his debut album, “I Can Hold On”. Heet Country Magazine says, “Stephen Michael is a very talented artist with a style that touches the soul. If you want to hear some great music from a great artist make sure to check him out.”

Stephen Michael's manager, Casey McConnell, says that "Stephen Michael is a refreshing sound in country music today. He writes from the heart and doesn't try to fit his music into a narrow category of what is expected. He's special; he connects with his audience. He knows them, he understands them, and he is them. His music and lyrics are the proof."

When you ask Stephen Michael about his music he just smiles and says “it’s just special how you can take something you feel…. put it into words and music…and watch how powerful it can be”.