Michael Omartian
Michael Omartian is a legend in sound. Omartian launched his musical career in the 1970s with the band Rhythm Heritage. The group went on to be known for their #1 single, “Theme from S.W.A.T.” which peaked at number 1 on the US Hot 100. Omartian went on to become an accomplished keyboardist with acts including Steely Dan and as a solo musician, and then an arranger and producer.
Michael Omartian is the first producer in recording history to have number one records in three separate decades – the seventies, eighties and nineties. In 1980, Michael was nominated for ten Grammy Awards, three of which he won for his work on Christopher Cross’ debut album. He has been nominated for producer of the year twice, once in 1980 and again in 1984. In 1985, Omartian, was an arranger and keyboardist for “We are the World” which Omartian produced alongside Quincy Jones. In 1991 Omartian was nominated for album of the year with “Heart In Motion” by Amy Grant. In 1995 he was nominated for country song of the year, “When Love Finds You,” with Vince Gill, and for Gospel Album of the Year, “The Light Inside,” with Gary Chapman. In 1994 Michael had the honor of producing “One Voice,” an album for the Summer Olympic Games. His song entitled “Atlanta Reel” was used as the theme for the swimming events.
Michael has produced such artists as: Susan Ashton, Sheena Easton, Barry Manilow, John Berry, First Call, Richard Marx, Stephen Bishop, Roberta Flack, Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Bela Fleck, Larry Wayne Morbitt, Michael Bolton, 4HIM, Lorrie Morgan, Karla Bonoff, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Debby Boone, Amy Grant, David Pack, Steve Camp, Howard Hewitt, Sandi Patti, Bob Carlisle, Whitney Houston, Jonathan Pierce, Peter Cetera, Janis Ian, Michael W. Smith, Gary Chapman, The Imperials, Rod Stewart, Steven Curtis Chapman, Jermaine Jackson, Marty Stuart, Cher, The Jacksons, Donna Summer, Michael Crawford, Waylon Jennings, Kathy Troccoli, Christopher Cross, Alison Krauss, Sheila Walsh, Helen Darling, Crystal Lewis, Wayne Watson, The Dirt Band, Patty Loveless, and Trisha Yearwood.