A multi-award winning original music artist, and mind-blowing cover artist who loves performing a wide range of other artists' music, Michael Tiernan is one of San Diego's best known Singer/Songwriters. Over the past 10 years, Michael has put out 5 albums, which have often been featured locally and nationally on several TV shows and radio stations across the country. A 2-time Los Angeles Music Awards winner, Michael performs at concerts and festivals around Southern California and is a sought-out entertainer for private events such as corporate parties, weddings, and charity fundraisers. His laid-back, personable style on the microphone makes guests and audience members feel at home, comfortable, and absorbed in the atmosphere. He performs primarily as a solo artist, but is often backed up by different ensembles, and for bigger events, heads up his all-star band made up of some of San Diego and Los Angeles' most respected musicians.
As a solo performer, Michael is a dynamo on stage, using modern looping techniques to create a huge sound with just one voice and one guitar. Whether playing from his extensive catalog of his own brand of acoustic-centric originals, or pulling out unique twists on all sorts of songs from every age and style, Michael is a treat for his audience and guests. Michael has an acute sense of the energy and vibe in a room, and knows how to make the most out of an event, whether it calls for a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, a sensitive and emotional atmosphere, or if it's full-on party time, Michael knows how to read an audience and adjusts his set accordingly with precision and timing. For events where popular music is desired, Michael's repertoire of songs span far and wide, from old standards, classic rock, reggae, fun 80's music, beach rock, all the way up through modern acoustic translations of top 40 and classic hip hop songs. His sets are as eclectic as they are exciting.
Depending on the nature of the event, Michael also offers a hybrid of musical services, and in addition to performing live music, is also a respected and experienced DJ and MC. He is the owner and operator of Still Listening Productions, a company offering the services of some of San Diego's best singer/songwriters who also DJ and MC events like he does. Still Listening also provides other services such as lighting, audio, and photo booths. Members of his team at Still Listening Productions include Collin Elliott, Josh Bonas, Tolan Shaw, and Jonny Tarr. In the event that Michael is already booked for a date, he is happy to provide one of his stellar team members in his place.
"Acclaimed singer-songwriter Michael Tiernan is a master of the soaring chorus and catchy hook line. His music places equal emphasis on piano and guitar, so fans of Coldplay, Crowded House and even Oasis' softer moments will find much to admire in Tiernan tunes, such as “Write Me a Love Song.” Currently working on his fifth album, Tiernan's rep grows with each release. Crucial to his success is that he's a great all-around entertainer, from musicianship to between-song banter. All of his albums to date have won or been nominated for music awards around the country, but it's his live set that's helped Tiernan become one the area's most popular singer-songwriters."
Bart Mendoza - San Diego Reader
“With smooth tenor and crisp acoustic guitar work, his songs alternately recall the effortless calm of David Wilcox and the spiky melodies of an indie rock band, versatile in their construction as they straddle genres and instrumentation." ”
John Wenzel - The Denver Post
"Tiernan is adept at tender ballads, country-inflected ditties and smart, savvy pop-rock. His songs are finely crafted without sacrificing their emotional essence for aural slickness, and he has a knack for letting his music breathe."
George Varga - San Diego Union Tribune
