Wanz's Biography

Michael Wansley, widely known by his stage name Wanz, is an American singer, songwriter, and engineer who rose to international prominence with his soulful vocals on the Grammy-winning hit 'Thrift Shop' by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. Born on October 9, 1961, in Seattle, Washington, Wanz has built a diverse career that spans music, technology, and community engagement. Before achieving musical fame, he balanced his passion for music with a successful career as a software test engineer, even working at tech giants like Microsoft. Wanz's deep, distinctive voice became instantly recognizable after 'Thrift Shop' topped charts worldwide, earning him and his collaborators critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance. Beyond his performance success, Wanz is committed to mentoring young artists and is active in music production and consulting through his business, Wanz Music. He enjoys cycling, volunteering, and sharing his experiences to inspire others. Wanz remains an influential figure in the Seattle music scene and is often praised for his humility and resilience. With an estimated net worth of $750,000 in 2024, he continues to derive income from music royalties, performances, and his entrepreneurial ventures. His journey from tech professional to Grammy-winning artist exemplifies the power of perseverance and the importance of embracing new opportunities at any stage in life.