reviewvancouver: The Sound of Music, An interview with Mike McLean

Matt Manuel in Motown - The Musical
Photo: Joan Marcus

Matt Manuel spoke to me by telephone this week from Palm Springs, California. Straight away he mentioned how excited he was about coming up to Canada and Vancouver in particular where Motown the Musical opens at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on February 6.

The show is based on the life of Berry Gordy Jr. and covers about forty years of the music producer’s life and career. Twenty-five year-old Matt Manuel grew up in Detroit, Michigan not that far from where Hitsville, USA Is located on West Grand Boulevard. He takes on one of the show’s principal roles, that of the legendary Marvin Gaye.

I asked Matt how much of a connection he felt he had with both Berry Gordy and Marvin Gaye. “I absolutely feel a strong connection with Mr. Gordy. Like me, he’s originally from Detroit. He’s now eighty-eight, but is still very much involved with the show. He was actually influential in me getting this role.” “Marvin died before I was born, and while I’ve always liked his music, I didn’t know much about his persona, so I watched his interviews to get a sense of his identity.”

When asked about whether Motown reveals the darker side of Gaye’s life, the artist was pretty emphatic. “The show doesn’t really deal with too many personal issues. Essentially, it focuses on the creative aspects of Motown’s musical legacy.” As a fan of Marvin Gaye’s music myself, I had to ask which song he enjoys performing the most. “Every scene that Marvin is in shows the audience a different Marvin. I’d have to say (I) Heard it through the Grapevine is probably my favourite.”

Before being given the opportunity to join the production of Motown the Musical, Matt was the male vocalist in the Simone Vitale Band. He had to quit the group to tour, but has left his options open to rejoin in the future. He also auditioned for Season XIII of the television talent contest, American Idol. “While I made it to the ‘Hollywood or Home’ round, I just missed the final cut” he admitted.

In addition to singing, Matt is also a reasonably accomplished piano player and guitarist. He has found encouragement and inspiration from his mother and his four brothers and two sisters who all perform at various levels of musicianship.

It may surprise some to know that Matt is a natural athlete, who, despite his height (6’-1”) excelled at gymnastics. Matt prides himself on having a solid work ethic. “Whether it’s learning to read music or extra voice training, I’m prepared to do anything it takes to be successful.”

With that attitude and such obvious self awareness, he’ll likely go far in the entertainment industry.