John Michael Hersey

Singer/Songwriter/Actor John Michael Hersey has released twenty-one albums of his music, including the October 2025 album, Democracy, where his continues his fertile fusion of rock, pop, folk, blues and country. Songweb called his previous release, Smoke Rings, “a masterclass in storytelling, soul, and sonic craftsmanship.” The Musical Road said, “The album “Smoke Rings” is really about introspection, resiliency, and the transient aspect of time. Each song flows like a thoughtfully written chapter.” And Pitch Perfect describes Hersey as an “amazing singer-songwriter with great songs, plus piano like Elton and guitar like Knopfler.” For many years he was the musical director, guitarist and second tenor for the legendary doo-wop group Speedo and the Cadillacs. In 2010, UMass Press published his book, Forever Doo-wop, about his experiences working with the Cadillacs and other vocal groups. His theater acting credits include leading roles in New York City area productions of Creditors, An Enemy of the People, Deathtrap and The Weir. His movie credits include Holistay and Magic in the Maze. He also serves as Manager of Creative Arts at The Fortune Society, a non-profit that provides services for people involved with the criminal justice system, and he is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Music and Theater department at Manhattan University.