WATCH: Following in footsteps of Sinatra… Newtonmore teen crooner Michael Lewis lands residency at famous US musical venue
Newtonmore’s teen king of swing Michael Lewis is following in the footsteps of his musical idol Frank Sinatra.
The 17-year-old is stepping into the international spotlight after securing a prestigious musical residency at the world-famous Grand Galvez Hotel in Galveston in Texas in the United States.
The venue, affectionately known as the ‘Queen of the Gulf’ has welcomed a host of legendary figures since first opening its doors in 1911 including Ol’ Blue Eyes, Dean Martin, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Jimmy Stewart and Ann Sheridan.
It is a fitting match, the fast rising star has been inspired by the golden era of swing of the legendary Sinatra and rest of The Rat Pack as well as Michael Bublé.
The teen has quickly become one of Scotland’s most exciting young vocalists despite only leaving school recently.
Lewis gave his first public performance at Kingussie High School’s Christmas concert and, in just 18 months, he has since captivated audiences at high-profile events including VisitScotland’s HITA Awards, The Women of Influence Awards, Inverness Highland Games, and Belladrum’s Tartan Heart Festival.
He will be returning to the latter at the end of this month to perform the coveted Saturday evening slot, backed by a full live band.
Praised for his ‘maturity and depth of voice’, Lewis is earning a reputation that belies his tender years.
His upcoming residency at the Grand Galvez is set to begin on New Year’s Eve pending visa approval with the singer set to carry the torch of swing for a new generation.
Lewis has just returned to Inverness Airport this morning fresh from finalising the details of the exciting opportunity.
He said: “Knowing that I am going to get the chance to perform in the same venue as someone like Frank Sinatra, who is my musical idol, is a feeling that I cannot describe.
“This is such an incredible opportunity.”
Darryl Hill, general manager at the Grand Galvez, said: “We are delighted to welcome Michael to the Grand Galvez and see him follow in the footsteps of the many legendary performers who have graced our hotel.
“It won’t be long before he becomes a worldwide star, and we’re proud to be part of his journey.”
Lewis’ residency is currently open ended with the hope that he will also be playing at other hotels within the group.
The Grand Galvez which has 226-rooms is a member of Historic Hotels of America, the official programme of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
