The Deaf DJ Who Refuses To Be Defined By His Disability
Michael Grierson aka 'House Poet' is a passionate, dedicated DJ I have had the pleasure of meeting and chatting to on several occasions, more often than not whilst he takes care of business as the guy responsible for the wonderful Ibiza live streams for Groove Odyssey each year.
On one such occasion, Michael expressed a frustration to me at what he felt was a lack of support in the industry for people with disabilities. I wondered why he cared so much and then was floored when he told me of his own condition, considering what an amazing DJ and creative he is.
In this chat we will discuss how he refuses to be defined by his disability, something extremely evident as I had no idea myself of what he battles through whilst providing such rich soundscapes. Actually... let me share his words, he says it so beautifully:
*Michael Grierson: A Journey of Creativity, Passion, and Inclusivity*
Born and raised in the vibrant neighbourhood of Forest Gate, Newham, in East London, I am Michael Grierson, a highly accomplished Deaf Artist, DJ, and MC. For the past 20 years, I have dedicated my life to honing my skills and making a significant impact in the music industry, fueled by a deep-rooted passion for Electronic, Dance, Roots, Dub, Drum and Bass, and House Music.
My artistic journey has been shaped not only by my personal experiences but also by my academic pursuits. Holding a Master's degree in the Creative Futures Industries, I have acquired a profound understanding of the artistic landscape and the power of creativity in shaping cultural experiences.
Throughout my illustrious career, I have had the privilege of gracing the stages of renowned events and venues, leaving audiences captivated by my performances. From the energetic atmosphere of Boomtown Fair and the captivating ambiance of Camp Bestival to the iconic Ministry of Sound, I have had the honour of showcasing my talent and leaving a lasting impression.
My music has transcended geographical boundaries, resonating deeply within the vibrant club scene of Ibiza and echoing through the hearts of local communities. Notably, I have had the privilege of performing at Pride Cardiff Castle and the esteemed 51st State Festival, where I have showcased my eclectic musical style and connected with diverse audiences.
Beyond my live performances, I am a dynamic radio personality, hosting two engaging radio shows every Saturday on OriginUK Radio and House FM in London. In addition to entertaining listeners, I hold the esteemed position of Radio Station Management at House Fm, overseeing the seamless operation of these influential platforms.
As a pioneering Deaf artist, I am committed to challenging conventions and breaking down barriers. Through my artistry, I advocate for the Deaf community, promoting inclusivity and raising awareness about the power of creativity to transcend differences. I firmly believe that art has the ability to inspire, unite, and transform lives, and I strive to ignite this transformative spark in audiences worldwide.
In addition to my work as a DJ and MC, I have a wealth of experience as a creative director. With a background in live events, club nights, promotional work, and social media, I bring a unique blend of artistry and innovation to every project. My expertise extends to studio engineering, where I excel in vocal recording, production, creative sessions, and mixing.
Throughout my career, I have collaborated with a diverse range of organisations and platforms, including Back to 95, Groove Odyssey, Ministry of Sound, House FM, and many more. I have worked on various projects, from private events and festivals to music videos and business promotional videos. I have also embraced the digital landscape, utilising platforms such as Twitch, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to connect with audiences worldwide through live streaming.
In conclusion, my journey as a Deaf Artist, DJ, and MC has been defined by a relentless passion for music, a commitment to artistic excellence, and a resolute dedication to advocating for the Deaf community. I invite you to join me on this extraordinary musical odyssey as we celebrate the beauty of sound, creativity, and inclusivity. With 20 years of experience as a DJ and a creative director, I consistently maintain a professional standard, tailor to the needs of each project, and deliver exceptional experiences.