SF Bay Area crooner steadily turning into an international artist

San Francisco Bay Area singer Mitch Franco. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

SAN JOSE, California — Filipino-American Mitchell Smith, more popularly known as Mitch Franco, the youthful crooner of classic grown-up ballads, is evolving from a local singer into an international recording artist with his own sound.

Singing since the age of four, he started performing in front of actual audiences across the San Francisco Bay Area by age seven. After a trip to Hong Kong earlier this year to further his music career, he plans on continuing to travel the world, bringing his music and passion right along.

Franco says, “I was in Hong Kong for a little over two months. My band did over 40 shows in that time at a highly prestigious club called Salon De Ning. I had such a phenomenal time and made many good friends. It’s such a joy to be able to travel and meet people from all walks of life. I’m looking forward to visiting again.”

Franco plays the electric guitar, bass, drums and piano. He even writes his own compositions that have a completely different vibe and style from when he performs in a big band with a swing music focus. Versatility is a crucial aspect of his career, and he strives to never be stuck with one specific sound.

“I’ve showed my friends and family some of my music without telling them that it was me, and they didn’t recognize my voice. I have two completely separate musical personalities,” he adds.

Currently, he is taking his music career one day at a time and is living in the present. For him, nothing is set in stone and he is taking it step by step. With an established following for his music in several countries, Franco has many doors wide open to him.

Franco states, “I really would just like to continue making my way across the globe. There are so many places to play, people to meet, and food to experience. As long as the bills get paid and I’m having the time of my life, that’s good enough for me. Of course getting signed to a record label and working with Quincy Jones would be a dream come true.”

As a proud Filipino-American, he agrees that his culture has strongly impacted and influenced his life. He attributes his family oriented view, work ethic, love of others and obsession with San Miguel-fueled karaoke nights to his Filipino side.

Franco adds with a chuckle, “What also impacts me is the food. It impacts my weight; I need to find a suit that can change sizes after every family party. We sure know how to eat. I’m definitely thankful for gym memberships!”

He believes that he was able to become successful and happy in what he does by working hard. He recognized from an early age what he wanted to do with his life and began working on it and honing his hobby to turn it into a sustainable lifestyle.

“I just learned to do what made me happy and to do it for the right reasons. I cherish all of the hardships that I’ve faced so far because it just prepares you for future obstacles that you will be able to better overcome. This has all contributed to my passion for music and contributed to any and all success that I have and have yet to experience,” he concludes.