Michael Ellison is a recording artist, actor, and producer. Known to many as both "MIKE-E" and Mike Ellison, the Detroit-based entertainer was born in Ethiopia, where he supports orphan outreach and healthcare programs, while maintaining nationwide recognition with one of the country's most popular anthems, Ethiopia (Everything Will Be Alright). With acting credits spanning film, theatre, and television, Ellison is also recognized for repeat performances on HBO's Def Poetry Jam and for teaming with the American Cancer Society to orchestrate and headline the AfroFlow Tour. This innovative initiative utilizes live music concerts and extensive community outreach to promote cancer awareness and tobacco prevention and cessation.

With a communications degree from the University of Virginia and professional experience in public relations, sports marketing, and event management, Ellison exemplifies art, education, and self-empowerment. A member of Detroit's only National Slam Poetry team, the independent artist executive produces recording projects and music videos, funds national tours through sponsor procurement, and supports several stateside and international humanitarian causes.

Ellison's AfroFlow brand acknowledges hip-hop's indigenous roots and uplifting themes. The first installment of the AfroFlow CD series became the first ever hip-hop project released by the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the world's largest institution dedicated to the African American experience. Michael's father, Bob Ellison, was the first and only African American president of the White House Correspondents Association in 1991. Father and son later worked together on several creative endeavors, including voter registration campaigns and the ongoing AfroFlow Tour until the elder Ellison's untimely death in May 2010.

Michael Ellison has been a featured guest on several nationally syndicated radio programs, including Senator Bill Bradley's "American Voices" on Sirius XM Radio and esteemed journalist Bev Smith's self-titled show on the American Urban Radio Network. He will release his third studio album in 2012.

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