Biography
Michael Shofi, originally from Ridgefield, Connecticut, is a dedicated singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose musical journey began at the age of 10. Initially drawn to the guitar and his vocal abilities, Shofi soon discovered his talent as a tenor singer, leading him to pursue classical vocal training and a focus on musical studies.
After realizing his passion for singing and performance, Shofi immersed himself in the world of musical theater. He graduated magna cum laude from Pace University with a BFA degree in musical theater. However, the onset of the pandemic in 2020 provided him with an opportunity to explore music production, a skill he pursued independently to produce his own music.
Shofi's musical style is influenced by a diverse range of artists including James Taylor, Green Day, Bon Iver, and Adrianne Lenker, resulting in a blend of folk, 2000's pop-rock, and alternative indie. Based in New York, he has performed at various notable venues such as Mercury Lounge, The Bitter End, 54 Below, and Heaven Can Wait.
In 2021, Shofi released his debut, self-produced album, "Life's Not Fair, Kid,”. A proficient multi-instrumentalist, he plays guitar, bass, keys, and vocals both in his solo work and in collaboration with other artists.
Shofi's dedication to his craft has been recognized by esteemed institutions. He was selected as one of 12 songwriters by the Johnny Mercer Songwriting Foundation in 2021, where he refined his skills under the guidance of experienced mentors. In 2023, he participated in the Honeywell Arts Academy's "Resonance" program, collaborating with fellow musicians and industry professionals.
Recently, Shofi was chosen for a year-long fellowship by the Honeywell Arts Academy Foundation, further solidifying his commitment to his musical career. He has also pursued professional-level studies in music production, learning from notable engineers such as Philip Weinrobe.
For Shofi, music is not only a creative outlet but also a means of connection and expression. His goal is to continue writing, collaborating, and performing while exploring the intersection between musical performance and wellness, enriching the lives of both himself and others through his artistry.