Sugar Queen

Michele Denise, known as Sugar Queen, is a versatile American vocalist and songwriter who performs blues in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Her family roots are in North Florida, which explains her affinity for gospel and blues. In her early years she studied classical piano. She later performed in churches in the South. While touring around the United States, she was chosen to perform at a historic event “Mandela Released.” Michele also played a dual role as director/vocalist for several gospel and classical choirs.

In 2006 she moved to Asia and formed the blues and classic rock band Deuces Wild in Malaysia. She also worked as a jazz singer with pianist Yiang Yi Sock in Malaysia. She was a session vocalist and recorded with blues/rock artist Wang Wei (Rock Rhino) on his self-titled CD “Wang Wei” in Beijing together with Chen Yuli, as audio engineer (he was the head of music production for the 2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony).
Sugar Queen burst onto the European blues scene in 2017 and has supported artists such as Keb’ Mo’, going on successful European tours. Whether singing stomper or slow-paced blues, she quickly hooks the audience.
With a personal narrative in her songs, Sugar Queen explores African-American roots, showing the rawest side of Chicago Blues, infusing the repertoire with a lot of gospel, soul and funk. In the vein of Koko Taylor’ or Willie Mae.

She currently resides in the Netherlands. Michele has achieved international success with three self-penned albums and has performed at numerous festivals and clubs on three continents. She is accompanied by an excellent band, a top-notch group of musicians, including guitarist Jean Raven, keyboardist Arjan van den Oever, bassist Erwin Huigen and drummer Ralph Adriaansen.