An Interview with Michael Ferguson

Today I’m having a chat with global performer and proudly South African singer-songwriter Michael Ferguson. He recently released a powerful new single, “A Million & One”.  It’s a master of soulful storytelling.

Michael Ferguson blends heartfelt lyricism with world-class production to deliver a track that resonates deeply.  “A Million & One” explores the raw, real journey of holding on to love – two people choosing each other through the highs, the lows, and everything in between. It’s an anthem of commitment, growth, and the courage it takes to evolve together.

Recorded at the renowned Mike Records studio in Spittal, Austria, the single carries the polish and punch of a world-class production environment, elevating Ferguson’s unmistakable vocals and emotive songwriting to new heights.

With a career that has taken him across continents, Ferguson continues to craft music that reflects both his South African roots and global perspective. “A Million & One” stands as his most personal and resonant release yet – an intimate reminder that love doesn’t thrive when it’s easy, but when it’s worth fighting for.

I recently had a chat with Michael Ferguson about a few things. This is what he had to say…

When did Michael Ferguson know that he would like to become a musician?

“I think I played my first chord on a guitar (which was always lying around the house somewhere) at 8 years old. I went to my dad and asked him to teach me just one chord, and that day was the start of my musical journey – ever since then I haven’t stopped learning. But when I started my first band in primary school, around 11, that’s when I knew it was for me.”

Your dad is Fergie from Ballyhoo. How did he and the band influence your music dream?

“Being around my dad and Ballyhoo was a massive advantage. From all the gigs I went to, to the musicians constantly coming to our house – it all influenced me hugely. I learnt things you can’t be taught in school or in music lessons.”

“It was a great benefit to be surrounded by such professional musicians and to learn the business side as well. It definitely gave me a solid foundation to pursue my own dream, and I’m forever grateful that my dad was – and still is – a rockstar.”

What was the best advice that Fergie has given you when it comes to following your music passion?

“There’s so much advice he’s given me, but what sticks out is this: it’s not always easy pursuing a career in music, but it’s worth it if you do it with your whole heart. He also encouraged me to learn about the music business, which led me to study a diploma in Music Business & Publishing.”

“The other big thing he taught me is that ‘the song is the golden goose’ of the industry. If you keep writing, even if it sucks at first, you’ll get better. The entire industry revolves around songs – so I started young and I still work hard on my songwriting.”

How did it come about that the two of you started performing together?

“Funny enough, it only happened recently. When I came back from Europe, we sat down and said, ‘Let’s put a little show together and just run with it…’ That was in early 2024, and the response has been incredible with Ferg ‘n Son.”

Tell us more about the tunes that Ferg ‘n Son will be performing during the upcoming It’s in the Blood tour.

“We’ve put together a two-hour show for the tour, with my original songs, some of Ballyhoo’s originals, and a mix of covers you don’t hear everywhere.”

“Everything is done in our own unique way, with a story behind the songs we chose. The show has a great mix of instruments too – four guitars, piano, harmonica, and strong harmonies between the two of us. If I had to define the genre, I’d call it a blend of country, pop, and soul classics.”

You currently live in Austria. How did this move come about?

“Long story, but basically when the pandemic hit and live music wasn’t allowed, I had no idea when I’d perform again. I decided to go work with friends in Austria just to make some money until the industry opened. I first worked in construction on the biggest Amazon warehouse in Central Europe, then later in gastronomy.”

“It was supposed to be temporary… but as life happens, I met my love there and started performing all over the country. Now we’ve got a house in the beautiful mountains and countryside. So we’re based there and come to SA every year for a few months. I guess you could say work took me to Austria, love kept me there.”

What is the music scene in Austria like?

“It’s quite different because it’s a small country, but they have a very popular genre called Schlager – very similar to the Afrikaans market back home.”

“I teamed up with writers and producers and wrote songs for different artists in Austria. They also enjoy my music because it’s something fresh and different for them, so thankfully I’ve built a nice fan base and network there.”

Does Michael Ferguson also play gigs in Austria?

“Yes, of course – thankfully a lot of gigs!”

What advice would you give to young musicians who are struggling to break through?

“Stick to the basics. Focus on your craft – whether it’s songwriting, playing an instrument, or performing. You can never stop learning. If your heart is in the right place and you have vision and belief in your calling, it will succeed and doors will open. Don’t worry about the noise — it’s everywhere. Go inward for your guidance, not outward.”

In Michael Ferguson’s opinion, why is music important in our daily lives?

“Music is a universal language. It’s one of the only things that unites us so powerfully, regardless of beliefs, politics, religion, or race. A life without music is like a ship without a sail.”

What are Michael Ferguson’s plans for 2026?

“I’m in SA until June 2026 and will be performing all over the country with Ferg ‘n Son. We’ve also got a great music studio in Hartbeespoort where we’ll be working on new material. From June 2026, I’ll head back to Europe to perform over the summer and settle into our new home.”

You can listen to / stream “A Million and One” HERE or watch the Youtube lyric video HERE.

Michael Ferguson will be on tour with his father, Fergie Ferguson from Ballyhoo, on the coast in the Western Province from 14 to 31 December. Performing as Ferg `n Son, they will be doing shows in Bathurst, PE, Kenton on Sea, Knysna, Plett, Strand, McGregor, Brackenfell, Noordhoek, Paternoster, Hermanus and Woodstock.

Of his upcoming arrival in SA for the tour, Michael Ferguson says: “I grew up watching my Dad performing and I was always in awe. At 8 years old, I got up on stage at a show to sing with them because I wanted to be a part of it. I never thought that all these years later, we would be doing these dream- duo shows together.”

“It is such an honor not only as his son, but as a performer, to play next to my Father – the one who gave me music. We’ve been performing together now for about nine months and I can`t wait to share this incredible musical bond to audiences across SA.’’

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Michael Ferguson for this interview. I wish all of the best with his future musical endeavors.

Don’t miss your chance to see Ferg ’n Son live – a show that blends nostalgia, heart, and pure rock and roll fire!

Watch this space for updates in the Interviews category on Running Wolf’s Rant.