Michael Joseph Nelson, known professionally as Banners, is an accomplished English musician hailing from Liverpool. He embarked on his musical journey by singing in the Liverpool Cathedral Choir, which laid the foundation for his future career. In 2015, he made a pivotal move to Toronto, where he collaborated with Canadian producer Stephen Kozmeniuk, leading to the release of his debut single “Ghosts”. This marked the beginning of his ascent in the music industry, showcasing his unique sound and artistic vision.
In 2016, under the moniker Banners, he released his self-titled EP, which included the hit single “Shine a Light”. This track achieved significant success, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Canada Rock chart. His music garnered attention, leading to a spot on Spotify’s Spotlight list as an artist to watch in 2016. Banners made his television debut on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, further solidifying his presence in the music scene.
Banners continued to build on his success with the release of his debut studio album, “Where the Shadow Ends”, in 2019. The album was well-received and supported by a headline tour across North America. His single “Someone to You” experienced a resurgence in popularity due to a TikTok trend, earning a Gold certification in Australia and showcasing his ability to connect with audiences across platforms.
In 2023, Banners released the EP “I Wish I Was Flawless, I’m Not”, which was nominated for a Juno Award, highlighting his ongoing relevance and impact in the music industry. His songs have been featured in various popular media, including TV shows and films, demonstrating his versatility and appeal as an artist. Banners continues to captivate listeners with his emotive songwriting and powerful performances.