Charles explained that his move to the United States began with an invitation to perform at Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago. At the time, he already had a successful career in Australia, but performing in America had long been one of his biggest goals. That opportunity quickly became much more than a short tour, introducing him to some of the biggest names in blues music and convincing him that Chicago was where he belonged. Rather than returning permanently to Australia, he bought another plane ticket and began building the career that has kept him on the road ever since.
One of the defining moments of Charles’ career came almost immediately after arriving in Chicago. Delays left him with little time to prepare before being taken directly from the airport to Buddy Guy’s Legends, where he unexpectedly found himself sharing the stage with Buddy Guy before the two had even formally met. What began as an overwhelming introduction to the American blues scene became a memory that still stands as one of the highlights of his career.
Long also asked about Charles’ 2026 Where to Next Tour and the mindset that has sustained his career. Charles said he has learned not to overthink life’s opportunities. Instead, he focuses on following what feels right, believing that second-guessing can often prevent people from pursuing meaningful experiences. Long agreed, noting that overthinking can easily become an obstacle to taking chances.
The conversation also turned to Charles’ upcoming performance at Johnny’s in Sterling. Although he performs in major cities throughout the United States and Canada, Charles said he has always made a point of including smaller communities in his tours. He believes audiences in rural areas deserve the same opportunities to experience live music, and he often finds those intimate venues to be among the most rewarding places to perform. Over the years, those stops have helped him build lasting friendships that make returning to small towns feel like visiting family.
Music has been part of Charles’ life since childhood. He began playing guitar at five years old after learning from his father, who loved music but never pursued it professionally. Charles performed on stage for the first time when he was just seven years old, and he said music has remained more than a career; it has become part of his identity. Whether performing live, recording in the studio, or writing songs at home, he continues to approach music with the same enthusiasm he had as a child.
Charles also reflected on the lasting influence of his father, who served during World War II and encouraged his son to pursue the life he truly wanted. Although his father passed away when Charles was only 21, his guidance continues to shape the musician’s outlook. Charles still considers him the greatest guitar teacher and biggest inspiration.
When Long asked what advice he would offer aspiring musicians, Charles shared the same lesson his father gave him years ago: pursue what you are passionate about and do not wait for another opportunity that may never come. He believes life moves quickly, and fulfillment comes from following one’s calling rather than living with regrets.
Long closed the interview by thanking Charles for sharing his story and expressing her excitement about attending his August 29 performance at Johnny’s in Sterling. Charles invited her to introduce herself after the show, bringing the conversation full circle with the same warmth and humility that have defined his decades-long career.
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2 Responses
Beautiful warm interview by Kierstyn Long with Michael Charles! Thank you!
Time of the concert has been changed to 8pm-11pm.