About this episodeMichael Bolton discusses his role as a musical guest and judge on the ABC show 'The Celebrity Dating Game,' hi…AI summary
Michael Bolton discusses his role as a musical guest and judge on the ABC show 'The Celebrity Dating Game,' highlighting its unique format where non-celebrity contestants must win over a celebrity based on personality rather than appearance. He reflects on his career trajectory, from early struggles with his band Blackjack to his breakthrough with soul-influenced hits, and shares anecdotes about his vocal preservation and iconic long hair.
Key takeaways 4
The Celebrity Dating Game format differs from traditional versions by featuring non-celebrity contestants competing for a date with a celebrity guest, who interviews them to assess substance, humor, and engagement before the visual reveal.
Bolton's musical identity was significantly shaped by R&B legends like Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye, leading to strong crossover appeal and validation from the Black music community.
Bolton experienced a 18-year gap between signing with Epic Records at age 16 and achieving his first major hit, during which he supported a family of five while navigating the industry.
Vocal preservation is a critical discipline for touring artists; Bolton notes he speaks in a lower register off-stage to protect his voice for performances requiring high notes like high C's.
Notable quotes 4AI-generated: wording and quote attribution may be wrong. Use the play link to verify.
“The contestants are non-celebrities... they can't pick based upon their appearance they gotta pick based upon who they are what the substance is how maybe how funny they are”
▶ 11:11Bolton explains the core mechanic of The Celebrity Dating Game, emphasizing that the format prioritizes personality over looks.
“I was signed when I was 16 to Epic and I thought I made it and then 18 years later I had my first hit... three daughters and a family of five to support”
▶ 3:40Bolton reflects on the long struggle and financial pressure he faced before his breakthrough success in 1987.
“I always considered an honor my primary influence as a kid was Ray... Stevie... Marvin... that to me I was the student they were the masters”
▶ 4:57Bolton discusses his deep respect for R&B pioneers and how their approval meant significant validation for his crossover career.
“I tend to feel like I got to protect my voice... but the truth is actually not supposed to talk like this... supposed to speak more like this and that's better for the voice”
▶ 2:23Bolton demonstrates his vocal technique, showing how he modulates his speaking voice to preserve his singing voice during long tours.
Chapters & Sections (46)▼
0:00Celebrity Dating Game with Michael Boltonchapter3
0:00Celebrity Dating Game Returns with New Season
0:55Music and Comedy on TV Show
1:23Celebrity Therapy Show Discussion
2:50Michael Bolton's Music Career and Challengeschapter3
2:50Relaxing in Interviews and Performing Under Pressure
3:18Music Career and Early Success
3:55Stress and Music Career Reflection
4:35Racial Identity and Musical Influenceschapter3
4:35Racial Identity and Musical Influence
5:07Artist Discusses Musical Crossover Experience
5:47Meeting a Musical Idol for the First Time
6:16Artist Reflects on Career and Musical Journeychapter2
6:16Artist Reflects on Music Career and Strength
7:08Artist Discusses Writing and Collaboration
8:08Celebrity Music Collaborations and Dating Gamechapter2
8:08Music Industry Legends and Collaborations
8:55Celebrity Dating Game Discussion
9:53Michael's Dating Game Experiencechapter3
9:53Michael's Experience on The Dating Game
10:29Dating Apps and Celebrity Relationships
11:19Blind Date Concept with Celebrity Host
11:53Comedy and Entertainment on Reality Dating Showchapter3
11:53Comedy Panel Discussion with Celebrities
12:33Celebrity Guest on Dating Show
13:07Celebrity Dating Show Waivers and Legal Issues
13:46Lawyers and Indemnification for Productionchapter3
13:46Paperwork and Legal Protection in Productions
14:17Radio Show Discussion with Michael Bolton
14:49Piano Mover Recalls Past Job
15:19Michael Bull's Piano and Hair Storychapter5
15:19Argument Over a Group Photo
16:03Confusion Over Piano Delivery and Ownership
16:25Fan Appreciation and Interview with Michael
16:48Childhood Memories of Music and Hair
17:41Regretful Haircut Experience
18:06Dating Colleagues in the Music Industrychapter4
18:06Celebrity Interview Discussion Success and Music
18:35Dating Colleagues in the Entertainment Industry
19:04Relationships Between Celebrities and Their Interests
19:40Socializing with Coworkers and Romantic Relationships
20:24Michael Bolton on Celebrity Dating Gamechapter4
20:24Celebrity Guest Announcement and Building Update
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