Michael Messer, born on 28 February 1956 in Middlesex, England, is a renowned English singer, songwriter, and slide guitarist known for his innovative blend of acoustic and electric blues. Messer's career began in the 1970s, and he has since become a significant figure in the blues genre, recognized for his mastery of slide guitar and lap steel guitar. His early musical influences included rock and roll, which he played with his brothers and in local bands. In his early twenties, Messer spent time in Nashville, Tennessee, where he was exposed to the country music scene, meeting legends such as Roy Acuff, Hank Snow, and Johnny Cash.

After returning to England in the late 1970s, Messer purchased his first National steel guitar and taught himself to play in the Mississippi delta blues style. He began performing solo and with various bands, eventually forming the Michael Messer Band in 1985. The band released their debut album, "Diving Duck," in 1988, followed by "Slidedance" in 1990, which earned him the UK Acoustic Blues Artist of the Year Award.

Messer's music is characterized by its fusion of blues with other genres, including Hawaiian slide guitar, reggae, jazz, and world music influences. His collaborations have included work with artists such as Mike Cooper and Ted Hawkins. Notably, his album "Rhythm Oil" featured liner notes by Johnny Cash, a rare honor shared with Bob Dylan and Kris Kristofferson.

Throughout his career, Messer has been celebrated for his innovative approach to blues music, incorporating turntables and exploring new musical territories with projects like Michael Messer's Mitra, which blends rural blues with Indian classical music. His contributions to the blues have been recognized internationally, and he continues to influence the genre with his unique style and dedication to his craft.