Flamekeeper: The Michael Cleveland Story (FEATURE LENGTH DOCUMENTARY)

He’s a bluegrass superstar and a rising talent across other genres. He’s an icon and an inspiration, even a Grammy winner -but that’s just part of the story. Michael Cleveland has overcome multiple disabilities to become the most awarded fiddler of all time.
Flamekeeper: The Michael Cleveland Story is a feature length documentary that premiered in 2019 at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN.
Directed by John Presley
Produced by John Presley & Cortlandt Ingram
VALIDATE FILMS - ValidateFilms.com

[@hmu958]

It's even more amazing that he is not a true savant. His love and dedication to his craft is rare. Love seeing him with Billy Strings

[@doncummings3915]

My thanks go out to Micheal's parents, his Grandmother and those around him who helped nourish this man and his gift...as a flower needs water, a child needs love, his greatness was bone out of the love that began at home....my thanks to all those who gave of themselves the love necessary that would allow the world to be blessed with the incredible music of this gifted human being...from an old Canadian Bluegrasser who did the Pilgrimage to Bean Blossom, still have my recording of "Any" when Pure Prairie League preceded Vince...I have been to a thousand one one festivals...if their is a finer fiddler than Micheal Cleveland, they are not of this world...thank you sir for your gift to the world, God Bless...and I suspect he has placed special Rosin on his bow, because there will never be another fiddler of this quality, he is divinely inspired

[@wesleymccravy901]

I agree completely.

[@nonnanostra]

Holy God whose giving all his gifts to find him in our hearts while listening to the Michaels soul praising His name.

[@Mentallytheillest91]

Never say never☺️

[@noodlenate]

I think he was reincarnated to shower this world with his fiddling gifts

[@cbcalkins8620]

Beautifully stated, and thank you.

[@Viperfitness]

Must be the best music films I’ve ever seen. If you are not moved by this you are probably dead. Respect.

[@752brickie]

My uncle was born blind and through a surgery in the early '30's he had very very little sight. He was a well driller with a cabletool rig and was one of the best I ever worked with. It was all by feel. He could do anything he ever wanted to do !!! I remember him telling me many many times"Tommy ,I might have been cheated on eyesight but there are not many people who enjoy life more than me !

[@aliciarobertson4979]

What a prodigious talent! The way Michael’s bow moves and his fingers fly as he plays is absolutely phenomenal.

[@jsy3359]

“If you wanna do something bad enough and you put your whole life into it you’ll figure out a way to do it.” ❤ Love this bit of wisdom and inspiration.

[@rodneysparks6442]

I heard that and was moved too!!

[@blundgrenviolin]

When Bela Fleck says you're "one of the A team," you know you've arrived. That's some serious validation.

[@picassomoon6435]

Michael is the A team!!

[@BobSchoepenjr]

I m a drummer , I dare to say that Michael is one of the best musicians in the world…

[@JuggaloJacksonville]

You'd love doc watson then

[@stevenesmith842]

I first saw Michael as a very young man playing at the Ky state fiddlin contest at Rough River State Park. I had the privilege to talk to him, and what a perfect gentleman, not to mention the best damn fiddler I've heard.

[@user-qt1hj6ct3y]

Wow. This just suddenly showed up in my feed. It was exactly what I needed today. What a beautiful and inspiring person. I dont even have words. I'm just glad there is Michael Cleveland in this world the same time that I am.

[@joemusic2882]

I’m glad he quit alcohol and it’s really a true testament to the friendship and dedication of his band members to quit along with him.

[@kevinhuber8723]

As a native Hoosier and music lover I am shocked I only learned of Michael this morning! Oh my! He is quite possibly the best "fiddle" player I have ever heard. Music lovers, get the word out!

[@peggygarcia6125]

Quite possibly the best fiddle player anyone will ever hear.

[@bodeghost]

"That's what I like about music... It's being moved not impressed...!" -Vince Gill [Absolutely brilliant words!] Mr. Cleveland is a blessing to music indeed... Not just music... but, with all he has had to overcome & remains doing so with each new day. You are an inspiration, Sir & we thank you for it all ! 😉 🎶 👻 🐾 🤗 🐶 🎸 🎊 💞 🍀 💜 🎶 Love & Light To You All out there in KZbin Land and Beyond! 🎶

[@user-qt1hj6ct3y]

Vince Gill is an American treasure. He is so unselfish. Why am I not surprised to see him in this film with Michael because of COURSE he would be.

[@dennisrogers3132]

Few things in life are perfect. Certainly not me. The smell of a babies hair in sunshine. Spring rain in spring grain. Alfalfa, sage, and juniper on a crisp sunny morning. Light snow on Christmas Eve. Like all of us, Michael is a human. His music transcends. I am glad to have discovered this. And to think, sometimes I bitch about my problems. Simply inspirational. Find yourself!

[@WhisperJetAmerica]

The production quality and value of this film is nothing short of stunning.

[@stacy2point0]

Wow. A Bluegrass Giant among us! I'm so happy God gave him the ability to get so much joy out of making music! AND the rest of us so much joy from hearing & watching him play!!! I got very emotional when hearing his parents talk about his childhood. And his mom's wonderful poem❣️ I'm a 50 yr old single mom... I never played any instrument until I was given a fiddle in August 2020. Like Mr. Cleveland, I was inspired to learn bcz of a song that i just HAD to play for myself (The Ludlow's). Mr. Cleveland, I am thoroughly enjoying being inspired by you & your playing!

[@lauradurbin4653]

I just started violin lessons (32 years old) and Michael is a big inspiration to me. Every time I listen to him, I get such a rush! I can’t get enough.

[@tboniusmaximus3047]

Im 28, i just finished building one so i can learn how to play it! How are your lessons going?

[@yeschefwithchadkubanoff]

This was so great and mike is incredible, never felt so much from the sound of a fiddle

[@flawlessbydesign7284]

December 2023, I too went searching for more music and information about Michael Cleveland...after a youtube short! First, thank you to the producers of this documentary, well done! Michael was blessed with parents and grandparents who encouraged him to so what he loved. There are no boundaries for one who has the pure love and joy of making music.. it's definitely challenging. I believe Michael said it best, practice, practice, practice. Not simply to improve, but to make whatever musical instrument or style truly your own. ( I have marked this video as a favorite and will return to watch and share.) Thank you to all his friends, and bandmates who have created inspiring music with Michael. Y'all are amazing. Totally captivated from beginning to end...😊❤️🎵🎶🎻

[@Jetsetfastfood]

He restored my faith. Music can go to a place words can not go.

[@jasonjohnson6344]

Cody Lee was a winner on America’s got talent a few years ago. Blind, autistic and a musical savant. God uses some of us to represent a mirror for us to see ourselves in. How would we handle such challenges? Wonderful story here. Thanks for sharing. 👏🙏

[@wandarose4274]

Michael Cleveland is a God's Gift to us! I admire his work attitude...his deter😅mination to do well! So many wonderful people have encouraged, and helped him... to be better, more creative, thanks everybody! Thank's Michael! We love you!

[@USA1492]

Absolutely breathtaking and beautifully done documentary! As a parent to two on the verge of blindness this is the greatest of inspiration. Thank you for this 🙏

[@kdb1802]

Oh the joy that boy brought his grandparents! I bet they were on cloud nine being able to take him to all those contest. I love it! What an amazing guy, God really blessed him with so much talent ❤

[@ztahs]

I can't think as fast as he and Andy Statman play, and they NEVER miss a note. Really an amazing musician.

[@RUNNOFT71]

I watch this probably once a week.

[@zeemcphee1353]

The violin is an extension of Michael's body, what an amazing player and an amazing person to go with it Great film, watching in Scotland 🙏💙

[@ronsimon3122]

A True Artist touched by the Master’s Hand.

[@tubadylan]

What a wonderful, well filmed documentary. I’m such a big fan of Michael’s, and was just overjoyed to get to see his story here on KZbin. Thank you!

[@marthalisk303]

Michael is in a word REMARKABLE. His fellow musicians admire, adore him and are in awe of his talent. One of the best things ever (to me) to watch is Michael playing with Billy Strings and a stage full of others in the String the Halls finale. Both are just incredibly talented.

[@Tbowie13]

Hearing his daddy talk about waiting the week for chromosome tests brought me back to my baby being born and going through those chromosome tests as well. He fiscribed it as hell and that's not off. I think I aged 10 yrs in that one week. Thank God, my baby's chromosomes were normal like Mike's. Those early yrs and all the surgeriesand feeling on an island is something I don't wish on another soul, but it brings you closer to God. Anyhow, I'm glad he has a gift, and it is an amazing gift.

[@robertfox499]

I've listened to allot of fiddlers. I love, love, love bluegrass and classical. Michael, like the great Stuart Duncan and a very few others... is one of those musicians that comes along once every couple of HUNDERED years! Vasser Clements must be smiling!

[@jdnell]

Kudos to those that produced this fine documentary of Michael Cleveland to date. It was well scripted and executed. A very enjoyable and engaging story from the first draw of the bow across the strings! Excellent work! Thank you.

[@travishelmkamp]

Don’t you mean “strangs”. 😂🤙😬

[@rogberube6422]

Michael is a wonderful person, an example of determination and resilience,, a master. Thank you, Michael.

[@therealmcoys3892]

Michael Cleveland is a music god! Makes me happy just to know people like him exist! What an amazing person! What an amazing story! Definitely an enormous inspiration and an example of courage....makes you want to become a better human being...

[@musicsavant1079]

When Bela Fleck put out his Bluegrass Heart album I had to find out who tbat fiddler was! I watched the Ryman concert online and Michael blew me away and I realized he was blind! What an inspiration to us all! He's just outstanding!

[@yeahthisisyoutubable]

God his playing is so beautiful. Thank goodness for Michael Cleveland and bluegrass music

[@sailorjohn8426]

What a wonderful documentary of a truly wonderful player. I'm ashamed to admit I have never heard Michaels playing until recently. Absolutely blown away by the sheer talent and skill on display

[@n_r_o]

Wow the braille in the intro was such a nice touch

[@cianoleary5584]

I agree, I was blown away by the detail!

[@IAmJeffDouglas]

Excited to go see Michael play in Vegas tomorrow!

[@marcydobbs1653]

We've been Michael Cleveland fans for years. He's an incredible filler and person. He's joined late night jams after performing, and always been a gentleman. He's an encourager to novices and generous with his advice when asked. First class!

[@gypsyswanson8366]

It's only been 3 days since I first learned of Michael! This is the best documentary I've ever seen about the best bluegrass player I've ever heard. Wish I could watched this with my pa. He was a banjo player and would of been excited about this one.

[@danielbishop5752]

Great documentary about a great guy. I'm proud to have jammed with him many times and even more proud to call him my friend!

[@dougdorney5525]

Michael is the most prominent fiddler player on Bela Fleck's "My Bluegrass Heart" album which was just realized. It's brilliant. In my opinion, Michael steals the show and that is saying something given the rest of the ensemble.

[@benjaminhirsch8650]

Absolutely brilliant production on this documentary. Thank you so much for bringing us his story in such a beautiful way!

[@williamkavanagh8805]

This is the greatest documentary I have ever seen. What an amazing genius.

[@billsewell]

Oh wow did I ever love finding out about Michael. Started looking for violin inspirations and found you. Thank you.

[@thumbtack40]

Very uplifting and inspiring. I won’t forget this Michael Cleveland 🎶🎶🎶 and a great documentary, we’ll done crew..

[@slayinbass2396]

This was a great documentary, it gives me hope hearing his first lesson and realizing everyone starts from square one, even the best.

[@Sanderly1820]

I love listening to Orange Blossom Special and I truly believe this song was made for Michael

[@nancychace8619]

Excellent documentary. I'd never heard of him, but my life has taken many turns. I'm a little older so my bluegrass life goes a little farther back. He's a wonderful player. Thanks for sharing.

[@-TKMAX-]

Came across this completely out of left field. How has this not got more views and likes?!

[@stephenbouchelle7706]

I’ve seen a number of Michael’s hot bluegrass pieces, but it was really great to hear some of these slower pieces in other genres. He really can play all kinds of stuff.

[@Tom-zy6ke]

An extraordinary and humbling story. Michael, his parents and grandparents, his teachers, friends and his band are an absolute inspiration.

[@alfrede.neuman8898]

A great guy and fellow Hoosier. Met & spoke with him at a festival in Parsons, WV a few years ago.

[@ulrichfriehe3459]

A must-see for every serious bluegrass fan.

[@RUNNOFT71]

Back again! This is truly amazing documentary.

[@camp.fish.repeat]

What an amazing story , I just saw this on a Facebook short , so decided to search the story , absolutely incredible man 👏

[@raymster8450]

Never heard of Micheal Cleveland until this video, now totally inspired and in awe! Here an hour and seventeen minutes later and only intended to watch about 5 minutes!

[@luke-xz1gb]

what a legend. we need a brian allen and mike cleveland album just those two dudes playing songs.

[@peggygarcia6125]

He's so generous to just sit and at some point in a festival for folks to listen and ask questions or make requests. He's absolutely one of the kindest and most humble people you could ever meet. Flame keeper are all superb musicians. Such a joy.

[@bige1552]

Could you imagine a band with Michael, Ricky Skaggs on mandolin, Vince Gill on the guitar, and Jerry Douglas on the dobro, and maybe Alison Krauss on vocals. Maybe insert Chris Stapleton if needed

[@holyspirit3355]

This is the best, a UNIVERSAL WINNER 🎉 I hope Michael finds love if that’s something he’s interested in.

[@billmccoy3666]

Fascinating story; excellent documentary of an exceptional musician and man.

[@dustinebaugh2891]

This is just FANTASTIC! What a beautiful film, John! Thank you!

[@jamieukulele]

Awesome film. Inspiring, beautiful and awesome music. .

[@Brucenator100]

Like others herein, the little jam secession showed on my FB feed... and that was three days ago... Who was this genius with no sight? So off to youtube, and here we are... Excellent documentary... Wonderful parents who cared enough to give Michael an excellent education... and Michael learned to never give up... which is really the most important life lesson one can learn... Michael... you are an inspiration ... keep fiddling... Love your music...❤❤❤❤❤

[@terryduncan31]

Have enjoyed the Kruger Brothers multiple times in Guthrie, Oklahoma at the annual Bluegrass festival. They're great and very nice individuals.

[@frenchpresscoffees]

The absolute tragedy of our lives is realizing how our perception of things has limited our abilities. Micheal is a someone to celebrate!!

[@awakeandhungry4334]

Can't wait to hear Michael with Bela Fleck in Dallas next month! I'm taking my wife for our 15th wedding anniversary and we're both super excited!

[@JWarrick98]

Reminds me of Buddy Rich, the drummer. Every time he played he went to a higher level and amazed his band members and the audience ever show. There will never be another. Thats also Michael on the fiddle.

[@percussionist48]

Fantastic, one of a kind, the only kind musically talented master of the violin, Michael Cleveland himself. It was truly a blessing to hear his life story and the privilege to see him play.

[@zachenglish3952]

The guy is a beast….best fiddle player to ever walk the earth

[@charlesharper7292]

Thank you very, VERY much. ❤️🤠👍

[@amusicment4829]

Great film-what an inspiring musician

[@braydenwiley9765]

I’m so glad someone did this! I’ve been looking up to Michael over the last 19 years of playing violin/fiddle. Truly a 1 in a billion musician!!

[@nicholasyashin4802]

I have heard em all. Michael Cleveland is second to no body. A + THE BEST

[@citizenplane5840]

This just goes to show with hard work and dedication we are all capable of anything

[@wubwilson1318]

Nothing but respect for this man. Saw him playing in a billy strings video about his new album and had to deep dive into his stuff, it just sounds so good and clean. A true inspiration

[@michellewinkler3985]

I loved this. I have an adult son that went to Colorado School for the Blind. He is 1/2 deaf also and has some similar things happening. Thank you for the documentary Mike!

[@WMDigitalServicesHeerlen]

So great to find the full documentary here, thanks!

[@siarlbychan]

Wow. What a fantastic story. His playing style was amazing. I had never heard anyone make sounds like that before. He's inspiring. I enjoyed the film immensely until they interviewed his friend, Brian, with a cleaning a chainsaw. I thought to myself, 'Lord have mercy. Is this the suspense part of the film because I wasn't prepared for that.' I was afraid if they showed him with a chainsaw one more time I was gonna pass out. What an inspiration though! I'm going to try harder to practice my fiddling. Thank you for this gem!

[@stephenguy8976]

If the devil ever goes to Arkansas to challenge Michael Cleveland he would have a serious headache 🤣🤣🤣

[@d.nakamura9579]

If I were the devil I’d steer well clear of Michael Cleveland 🤣

[@robertshorthill4153]

I don't know if Michael and Doc Watson ever played together, but for me that would have been a hell of a bunch of tunes. These two guys are friggin' out of this world. Someday, they're both going to be together on the other side of this life.

[@robertshorthill4153]

@@BenSlover1 yes, I did see that. Michael was what? maybe 10? I got the feeling Doc was having a bit of a difficult time keeping up with Michael. When Doc couldn't keep up with someone as good as he was, you know the other person has got some chops.

[@joukarfoy]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqO8qZ5rnJ2jm7M

[@DillonPolis-bu9cx]

I used to be a musician. My heros are Kurt Rosenwinkle, Chris Potter, and Trent Reznor. I used to hang with the best of them. Michael is a fucking force of nature. I dont give out compliments lightly.

[@shelbyesters5732]

Seeing them in October in Kentucky. Can't wait.

[@terryhunter2526]

I was watching Michael and Billy Strings Play the other night, and he made Billy strings jaw drop.

[@christino9405]

I'm hoping Michael Cleveland and Leo Kottke get to play together. That would be sublime. This film is a fantastic documentary. Thank you, Michael! You are brilliant. 🌟⭐🔥🔥🔥💯💥💫💖💗💖

[@picknngrinn]

Very inspiring! Thank you.

[@Onionbaron]

For those out there that has encountered "The Flow", salute a soul that visit us from where everything flowing....

[@jttrumpet55]

Wonderful inspiring story of a great musician. Thank for sharing

[@petergrifindor]

Superb documentary. Thanks a lot!!!!

[@brucekuehn4031]

Michael Cleveland is an amazing person and fiddler! Enjoying that new Béla Fleck double CD where he plays on a few cuts. In that same spirit of overcoming physical problems in order to make music, you may also want to check out Felix Klieser on YT. He is a German professional French horn player who was born without arms and plays the instrument by using his left foot to action the valves.

[@jasonh.8362]

This was outstanding!! Thanks so much to everyone involved.

[@dionst.michael1482]

The human spirit is a wonder. God bless those that inspire us all ❤

[@60beats44]

Thank you so very much for uploading this fascinating documentary here on this channel. I wish that Sam Bush would agree to do the same with his story 'Revival'. I live in Australia and have no access to the latter, even as a purchase option.

[@grahamhughes2025]

a brilliant and inspiring watch....lovely story telling.

[@alicedowell3112]

My Pap played bluegrass 🥰 loved every second of this! What a inspiration 👏🏼 God bless and thank you so very much 🙏🏼 ❤ 😊

[@JeremyFinlay]

Amazing talent and skill, a true inspiration!

[@terryduncan31]

Michael Cleveland is the GOAT in my opinion.