Michael Miles Releases ‘Great American Jukebox’

Musician, teacher, and performer Michael Miles has long been known for his passion and intriguing musical insights. His latest project, the album Great American Jukebox, showcases his talents alongside cellist Jill Kaeding. The album features 11 songs, highlighting the works of Stevie Wonder, Lennon-McCartney, Elton John, Bernie Taupin, Peter Green, and Stephen Sondheim.

The album, performed on Miles’ guitar and Kaeding’s cello, includes titles like Stevie Wonder’s “As” and three songs by Lennon-McCartney, including “A Day in the Life.” Other notable tracks are Elton John and Bernie Taupin’s “Madman Across the Water,” Peter Green’s “Black Magic Woman,” and Stephen Sondheim’s “Send in the Clowns.” The Great American Jukebox evokes the spirit of the Great American Songbook, which encompasses the enduring hits from the 20th century in American popular music and jazz standards.

Miles aims to claim the “Jukebox” concept as his own. Alongside the album, he promotes it through concerts, a new YouTube channel, and a website featuring over 50 song arrangements available through Hal Leonard. Miles recalls how the idea came to him early one morning as he trademarked the name Great American Jukebox for $12.

While many associate Miles with the banjo, he emphasizes his guitar background. He holds a master’s degree in guitar performance from Northeastern University and teaches guitar as well. His ability to play both guitar and banjo provides a balanced musical experience. The new album allowed him to delve into the emotions behind iconic songs like those of Carole King. Arranging music, according to Miles, involves solving riddles and gaining a deeper understanding of the songs.

The familiarity of the songs on the album enriches the listening experience. Although lyrics are absent, listeners mentally supply them while focusing more on the instrumental mastery. Miles describes the collection as solo fingerstyle guitar and chamber-like interplay with the cello. This ambitious project highlights his creativity, which comes naturally to viewers familiar with his work.

Miles and Kaeding have previously collaborated on projects under the “Panorama” title, combining music, spoken word, and film. His work is consistently well-organized and thoughtful. Miles is delighted by the historical significance of jukeboxes, especially considering Chicago’s pivotal role in their manufacturing history. Companies like Seeburg, Wurlitzer, Rock-Ola, and AMI once dominated the industry, with only Rock-Ola surviving today. The company’s name comes from its founder, David Rockola, rather than rock ‘n’ roll—a fact that Miles found particularly interesting.

On his website, Miles shares a quote from William Blake: “Mine is to create, not to compare,” which embodies his philosophy of performance and music creation. His goal is to create and share music deeply with his audience.

Event Information
Album release concert 8 p.m. June 13 at Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave.; $39, 773-728-6000 and www.oldtownschool.org