NEWS

• By LuAnn Thibodeau Special to The Suburban 

•  Nov 18, 2024

Engelbert Humperdinck delighted fans at all of the seven recent shows in Canada. He was quintessentially captivating in Quebec City, magnificent in Montréal, great in Gatineau, and terrific in Toronto. Billed as The Last Waltz Farewell Tour, Enge — as he is known to his fans — took the audience members down memory lane as he sang many of the hits that brought him fame through the years. And what wonderful years they were, with the songs still as popular as when he first introduced them.

The show opened in a very apropos manner, with a slide show on a jumbo screen of Enge through the years, and as he came onto the stage, clad in black pants and a black tux, with one of his trademark red shirts, he sang Ain’t It Funny How Time Slips Away…and yes, it does seem that it was only yesterday that many of his songs came out. One of his best was up next, Am I That Easy To Forget? Well, I can say with the utmost certainty that no one will ever forget this amazing man — not now or anytime in the future. His music and legacy will live on forever. Next came a song that was number one for a year in parts of the world that were torn apart by conflict and war, How I Love You. And I must say that the emotion that Enge put into this song was felt by everyone in the audience. The tears flowed down many a cheek as he sang the very moving words.

Then it was on to a tune that was very popular when it was released over 50 years ago but became even more well known the second time around. Due to it being featured in the Marvel series Moon Knight, A Man Without Love shot up the charts to number one and introduced a whole new generation to the music of Engelbert. Many of the folks at the shows were of that younger age group, and those that I spoke to after the shows were amazed and delighted that they could see him live in concert. And adding to the allure that is Engelbert Humperdinck, as the second verse starts, Enge lifts his leg and puts his left foot on one of the speakers at the front of the stage, again drawing loud applause from the audience. Rounding out the beginning of the show was the song that was nominated for a Grammy Award but surprisingly didn’t win — After The Lovin’. It did, however, go triple platinum, and has been a favorite of many, many people since it came out in 1976.

Now it was time, as Enge says, for him “to get lose”. As the band played a section of the jazz instrumental that was composed by David Rose in 1958 and released in 1962 (when it also became a number one hit on the Billboard charts), The Stripper, Enge removed his tux and then seductively danced a bit and then bowed to the crowd. And they loved it. The applause and whoops and hollers were deafening. And that he can still get that reaction at his young age of 88 is (to use the title of one of his newer songs that he cowrote with his daughter Louise) Totally Amazing. Men much younger would love to be able to pull that off. It was also time to “pop back here and get a drink. I swear if I didn’t have a little drink at the end of the night, I’d die”.  And continuing with his classic humor, Enge said “there is absolutely no alcohol in here whatsoever. It’s been years since any alcohol has passed these lips.” Again, the audience applauded. And when he said, “But I also lie,” the roar of the crowd erupted, and laughter filled the air.

Ever the gracious host and a true gentleman, Enge offered up a toast to the audience and thanked them for being a part of his journey. And he also thanked them for the many letters that they write to him, saying that they lift his spirits and he truly appreciates them. That led the way into nostalgia time, with Love Letters being the next song.

The nostalgia mood continued with a song that everyone loves, Quando, Quando, Quando. For that song, Enge asked his keyboard player, Olivia, to join him in a dance. She told him that she couldn’t really dance, to which he replied “You just have to follow me.” So, Olivia came down and was ready to join Enge. He then offered up some more of his comic side and asked her if she knew how he learned to dance.  He said, “I learned to dance waiting in line for the bathroom,” as he was one of 10 children. He added visual effects, and the crowd once again roared with laughter.

On to what Enge refers to as the romantic section of the show, the first of a trio of songs, If You Don’t Know Me By Now, which was on his latest album, All About Love. It’s a song that Enge calls “an audience participation song”, because he asks the audience to sing the chorus when he points to them. And they love doing that for him. The second of the three was “probably the most romantic song ever written,” in the 1940s, “well before I was born,” that got another round of raucous applause from the audience, Bésame Mucho, which Enge sang beautifully in two languages, English and Spanish.

Rounding out the trio was a song by the band Journey, entitled Faithfully. Enge said that the song is going to be on his next album, which he is recording now. He said that the album is going to include songs done by several of the big names in bands from the ‘80s, also including Aerosmith and others, but wouldn’t tip his hand to say any more. We’re all anxiously awaiting its release, in 2025.

He then picked up the pace with another song from his All About Love album with a lively rendition of the Barry White classic, You’re The First, The Last, My Everything. Enge gave it a country feel, and he dons a cowboy hat and dances a great Texas Two Step as he sings the song. He invites the audience to dance along, and many folks did so, while others clapped and tapped their feet to this energetic song.

He slowed it down a bit with the next number, which he says depicts his life story and is his motto — Don’t Let The Old Man In. And I have to say, I don’t think he will ever open the door to that guy. Again, picking up the tempo, it was time to introduce the band, with the song Old Time Rock and Roll. Each of the members were individually featured, with Olivia, Steve, Adam, Keven, and Ann “showing off their talents.” And they definitely are all very talented musicians, who are greatly appreciated by the audience.

On to what has become a fan favorite, a song that Enge wrote about 30 years ago, for his darling wife, Patricia, who is now in Heaven. Everywhere I Go certainly brought tears to the eyes of most, if not all, of the members of the audience. The depth of the love that he had for Patricia comes through every word as he sings them, and at the end of the song, as he blows a kiss to her in Heaven, the tears flowed even more down the cheeks of many of the folks present.

Then came the song that is the title of the tour, The Last Waltz. Will it truly be the last, or will the last waltz last forever? Time will tell. On to the medley, a collection of five of the big songs of Enge’s career. This Moment In Time, The Way It Used To Be, Les Bicyclettes De Belsize, There Goes My Everything (this writer’s favorite song, as it holds a special meaning), and Spanish Eyes, also sung in two languages, captured some of the greatest moments of his illustrious career. But the one that Enge sang next, was the one that launched his career into the stratosphere in 1967— Release Me.

He changes up the lyrics a bit “I can’t believe this song is 57 years old,” to which the audience applause was at a crescendo, and as he continued, they rose to their feet and gave him a much deserved standing ovation. As he left the stage, they were still on their feet, and the roar of the cheers and applause vibrated through the crowd.

Enge returned to the stage and sang a song by the French composer Michel Legrand — How Do You Keep The Music Playing. Well, I can guarantee that Enge’s music will play on forever, with many new fans coming along and realizing what a great singer he truly is. Enge then closed the show with his absolutely brilliant rendition of The Power of Love. And he left nothing behind, he poured his heart and soul into that song, and it was the perfect ending to a wonderful night of that walk down memory lane- from the beginning in 1967 to today.

Enge shook the hands of fans who had gathered around the stage, and then donned a brilliant red Versace boxer’s robe, as he readied to toss out a few of his red signature hankies, the one treasure that every fan wants to have. He then mimicked some classic karate moves (he himself is a black belt) and blew kisses to the audience and clasped his hands in thanks and appreciation to them. He said, “Applause is the food of an artist, and thank you for not starving me or my people tonight.”

And as he exited the stage, with the audience on its feet as they applauded and cheered, they wondered if it was indeed The Last Waltz. But as he himself said in an interview, “Elton John’s farewell tour lasted five years.” And although at the time of the seventh show of this part of the tour, the last show on his schedule was in December, new shows have been added for 2025. So perhaps The Last Walt’s will last forever — as the fans truly hope that it will.

https://www.thesuburban.com/townnews/music/luann-thibodeau-engelbert-humperdinck-s-last-waltz-farewell-tour-captivates-canadians/article_0533a52a-a520-11ef-8668-739c009a1891.html

Nov 04, 2024 By Jordan Chakravarty Zoomer Radio

For more than six decades, international recording icon Engelbert Humperdinck has shared a love affair with fans of every age on every continent.

Engelbert joined The Morning Zoom with Andy & Jane before his big show here in Toronto at Massey Hall.

Engelbert talks about what keeps him in shape, what songs he didn’t think would turn out to be hits and, of course, we find out if fans still throw panties at him on stage.

Listen below:

https://www.zoomerradio.ca/blogs/station-blog/2024/11/04/the-legendary-engelbert-h

• By Mike Cohen The Suburban Nov 6, 2024

Engelbert Humperdinck may be 88 years young, but he is showing no signs of slowing down. The ageless British pop singer performed before two sold out audiences at Théâtre Maisonneuve of Place des Arts last week. “The Last Waltz Farewell Tour” marks the end of his live concerts. But that does not translate into the end of his career. After two nights in Quebec City, a pair at Lac Leamy in Gatineau and then Massey Hall in Toronto, he returns to Los Angeles to begin recording a new album. Promoter Rubin Fogel says Humperdinck has done over 40 concerts here since 1969. The audience last Thursday went wild for him. Most were over 40. When intermission drew near and Humperdinck began to head backstage for a rest, the fans would not let him go so he played on. People I spoke to in their 80s said this crossed off a major bucket item on their list. Which music icon will Fogel bring next? May I request Barry Manilow?

https://www.thesuburban.com/columnists/mike_cohen_cohen_chatter/ageless-british-pop-star-engelbert-humperdinck-bids-adieu-to-montreal/article_6d83c214-992b-11ef-8387-976536e962c2.html

• By LuAnn Thibodeau The Suburban October 4,2024

The words in the title are part of the lyrics to the song We’ll Meet Again. And several years ago, the lyrics were changed up a bit — “Tell everyone in town that Humperdinck is back.”

Yes, indeed he is back. Engelbert Humperdinck is returning to Canada for seven shows. Just off of a very successful European tour, including the phenomenal performance at The London Palladium- the place where it all began for him, Enge (as he is known to his fans) is bringing The Last Waltz Farewell Tour to four cities — Quebec City (October 28, 29), Montreal (October 31, November 1), Gatineau (November 3, 4), and Toronto (November 6).

Speaking of the performance at The Palladium, many fans that I spoke with after the show felt that it was one of, if not THE best performance of his career. He poured his heart and soul into every song that he sang that night, holding nothing back. Many times, the emotions that he displayed were echoed by the crowd. When he had tears in his eyes, so did the members of the audience. When he laughed, they did too. And when he danced around the stage, the audience was dancing in their seats. It was a night that everyone who was there will never forget- the wonderful memories will last a lifetime.

When asked about it recently, Enge said, “It was like a flashback of every step and every mile that had happened since January 13, 1967, was reviewing in my head. The nerves that came as they did back then and turned into an energy that I can’t explain. I’m so grateful for the opportunity that came my way and the years that followed and led me back to a magical moment. I wish that we had taped that one, but I’ve got it in my heart.”

Well, I know someone who taped it and loves replaying it, too, being able to relive that wonderful September night in London. And when someone asked me if it was worth flying over 3,000 miles to the show, my answer was a resounding yes. And when further asked if I would do it again — I said that I’ve done it twice — in 2022 and 2024, so definitely, I’ll go for more.

When asked about being known as “The King of Romance” and “The King of Hearts” and if romance and love are what makes him and his songs so loved by so many, or if there was more to the allure of Engelbert Humperdinck, his response was, “My songs and style was stamped with love. The incredible team of writers were able to see the full picture before I dreamed it. They knew my range and tone and the words and the melodies that hit home with hearts around the world,” said Enge. “The arrangers and producers completed my musical vehicle, and I wanted to step up to the plate every time and give it my all. ‘Love is All’ is one of my favorites and I have held close the lyrics in the chorus with every curtain that goes up for me.”

I told Enge that in the first article I had written about one of his concerts in my home state, I dubbed him the man with “the voice that melts butter” and asked if he felt that was an adequate analogy. “I do like my butter and appreciate the analogy…. I think Nat King Cole was that guy and he was a big influence on me.”

Asked about his thoughts on returning to Canada, Enge said, “I love the Canadian audiences. They are so connected to the musical experience, and they give me adrenaline with their engagement.”

So, I have to say that it’s going to be nights filled with many of the hits that made Enge famous. Of course, no show is ever complete without The Big One. “It started my life,” said Enge — Release Me. As he sang at The Palladium, he said “I can’t believe this song is 57 years old.” Yes, fans have been enjoying that song for that many years, and it never gets old. Enge changes up the lyrics a bit (with the above line as well as the last line, when he sings “Release Me, and I’ll be back again”), and the audience loves it. Also, always in the song set list is “Man Without Love”, a song that has made new generations of fans, thanks to it being featured in the Marvel series Moon Knight. And there is a medley of several of his other early hits.

When asked about the songs and if there would be any other songs added back to the song set list (I mentioned that I would love to hear Let Me Into Your Life), Enge’s response was, “That’s a very good choice and very emotional. I’m really lucky to have a treasure trove of beautiful and sentimental songs. As I do interviews, I also get to know music journalists’ favorite songs. I just was told Alone In The Night was popular in South Africa, so we hurriedly rehearsed it and am I so grateful I listened. Five thousand-plus people a night singing a song I haven’t sung in decades.”

Well, I can only hope he adds my song back. But even if he doesn’t, I can attest to the fact that South Africa wasn’t wrong — Alone In The Night is a masterpiece and I’m certainly glad that he added it back to the set list.

Enge has some new songs in the mix, including Faithfully and How Do You Keep The Music Playing, and he also has a new album coming out. Would he tip his hand and offer up any hints as to whether any other new songs might be in the offing at these shows, and what songs might be on the new album? Well, “Both songs really touch me and though they are not mine, I feel connected to them deeply,” he answered. “And that is what we are doing with the new album….no filler songs. I’m not going to give away the list, but another journalist mentioned one of his favorites and it has reaffirmed my decision to record it. I’m listening and taking notes…even after all these years.”

Guess I and everyone else who is going to any of these shows is going to have to wait with bated breath to see what happens. And I know that we, as well as fans around the world, are looking forward to the new album. It’s so refreshing to see that after all these years and all of the hits, Enge is still keeping tabs on what the fans want.

The tour is billed as The Last Waltz Farewell Tour, and Enge has often said that he will keep going until God calls him. So, of course, that song that went triple platinum, The Last Waltz, is definitely a special part of the show. And the fans are certainly hoping that the last waltz will last forever, and that (as mentioned above), as Enge changes up the lyrics a bit in Release Me, and sings “Release me, and I’ll be back again.” he’ll be back again and again. When asked about it, Enge said, “This business of song is in my blood. The more I tour the more I want to use my music as a passport to the world.”

As I asked about any final thoughts, I said that the weather might be a bit chilly, but that I can assure that the love that the fans have for Enge will fill the theaters and hopefully fill his heart with lots of warmth, Enge continued by saying, “I have always appreciated my faithful fans and new ones, too. If they have been there since 67 or yesterday because of a video they came across, if they have traveled 5 miles or 5 thousand miles…and they have taken time out of their lives to be a part of this dream I had so many, many, years ago. It’s truly amazing… they have the dedication that I have to my career, and I guess that is why we all are still here.”

Well said, my good man, well said. And one more thing he said that really struck a chord with me personally. How does he keep going? “I know I’m a bull… true to my Taurus sign and have a great deal of tenacity.”

I have to say that this Bull — I’m also a Taurus full of tenacity — certainly appreciates his tenacity, and as he always says to the audience, I’ll return the words to him as I speak for every fan, near and far and say “remember — I love you.”

https://www.thesuburban.com/arts_and_entertainment/entertainment/tell-everyone-in-town-engelbert-humperdinck-returns-to-canada/article_7b639242-80f8-11ef-959f-9f82674ef24e.html

News 24 17 July 2024

The legendary Engelbert Humperdinck bade his last farewell to a minute-long standing ovation at GrandWest in Cape Town last night for the final leg of his South African tour. He had wowed audiences in Pretoria on Friday night at the SunBet Arena, and Cape Town was no exception. 

The two-hour-long show had the 5 000-strong crowd singing along to all his old classics, including “Release Me”, “Quando” and “The Last Waltz”, and they were treated to a few new renditions of old favourites, to be featured on a new concept album in September.

Moving about the stage like a man half his age, he peppered the show with funny jokes and stories, including of entertaining moments encountered with other famous, such as Elvis Presley and Tom Jones. And there was not a dry eye in the house when he sang, “Everywhere I Go,” dedicated to his late wife. 

After the show he said: “I was overwhelmed by the fantastic crowds in South Africa and the warm welcome I received everywhere. I’ll keep the memory of my time here and I will dance ‘The Last Waltz’ with my fans forever.” 

https://www.news24.com/news24/community-newspaper/paarlpost/last-waltz-with-humperdinck-20240717

The four-time Grammy nominee will perform in Cape Town and Pretoria this weekend.

By Lineo Lesemane The Citizen 11 July 2024 

Legendary musician Engelbert Humperdinck has arrived in South Africa for his much-anticipated The Last Waltz Farewell Tour.

Humperdinck is a British musical legend known for his captivating performances and timeless classics like Spanish Eyes, Release Me, and many more.

His farewell tour kicks off on Friday night, 12 July, at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria.

The tour will conclude with a sold-out show on Sunday, 14 July, at the GrandWest Arena in Cape Town.

‘What an absolute gentleman’

TV presenter and pop singer Nádine, who will be hosting the show on Friday night at SunBet Arena, expressed her excitement after meeting the legend upon his arrival. 

Taking to Instagram, Nádine wrote: “And so, the one and only Mr Humperdinck has landed in South Africa! What an absolute gentleman and an honour for me to welcome him to our beautiful country on behalf of the South African people.”

The TV star added that she is looking forward to welcoming Humperdinck on stage.

“If you thought age would be a question for these shows – think again. I have never met someone so energetic and full of passion at the age of 88 – and what a gentleman.”

“This show promises to be truly unforgettable, and I cannot wait to welcome and see one of music’s greatest icons live on stage!”

With a career spanning over six decades, Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records worldwide.

His numerous accolades include four Grammy nominations and a Golden Globe.

https://www.citizen.co.za/entertainment/celebrity-news/legendary-musician-engelbert-humperdinck-lands-in-sa-for-farewell-tour/

Steven Taylor from Magic828AM recently had the opportunity to interview international star Engelbert Humperdinck ahead of his final tour to South Africa.

Humperdinck, who is originally from the United Kingdom, now lives in Los Angeles, spoke about a range of things with Taylor, including the fact that he is a huge fan of Lady Gagga.

Asked about whether he writes his own music, Humperdinck said that he did not write all of his own music, and that some was written by people like Les Reed and Barry Mason who wrote the hit “The Last Waltz” among many others.

Humperdinck says that the one thing he regrets in his career is that he never took the time to write more of his own songs. He mentions artists like the Beatles and Taylor Swift. Asked whether he is a Swifty a Taylor Swift fan, Humperdinck replied that he is and admires her as a trend setter.

Humperdinck is on his way to South Africa this month as part of his Last Waltz Farewell Tour, which will be his final tour.

Humperdinck will perform in Pretoria on the 12th July and Cape Town on the 14th July. Tickets are available via Webtickets.

Asked what we can expect from the show, Humperdinck said that he is working on a new concept album which will feature music from the likes of Journey and others. He said he will be performing a song from Journey when he comes to South Africa.

You can hear more from Steven Taylor’s chat with Engelbert Humperdinck here:

https://echocast.fabrik.fm/n93R1L4y7Byym2

1967’s ‘Please Release Me’ and 1968’s ‘A Man Without Love’ will be back in circulation via Decca on August 23.

July 4, 2024 By Tim Peacock UDiscoverMusic.Com

Engelbert Humperdinck, the legendary crooner renowned for his velvety voice and timeless ballads, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with the reissue of two of his most iconic albums, A Man Without Love and Please Release Me for the first time on colored vinyl on 23 August. These titles have played a big part in solidifying Humperdinck‘s status as one of the most beloved entertainers of all time, selling over 140 million albums throughout his illustrious career.

Originally released in 1967 – and now set for reissue on clear vinyl – his debut album Release Me is one of the gems in Engelbert Humperdinck‘s discography. The album’s title track, became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts, while the album also includes classic tracks such as “There’s A Kind Of Hush,” “Take My Heart” and “Walk Through This World.”

A Man Without Love, released in 1968 and a popular U.K. Top 20 hit, features Engelbert Humperdinck‘s signature style at its finest. With hit singles such as the title track, “A Man Without Love,” “Call on Me,” “Quando, Quando, Quando” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” the album showcases his remarkable vocal prowess and emotional depth. Each track evokes a range of emotions from heartache to hope, making it a classic record that continues to stand the test of time.

Engelbert Humperdinck‘s importance in the history of modern music cannot be overstated. With a career spanning nearly six decades, he has garnered widespread acclaim and earned numerous accolades, including MBE (Member of the British Empire,) a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a Golden Globe. His smooth baritone voice, charismatic stage presence, and ability to deliver heartfelt performances have endeared him to millions of fans around the world. His music has transcended generations and continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

https://www.udiscovermusic.com/news/engelbert-humperdinck-albums-colored-vinyl-reissue/

What’s on in Cape Town

As winter casts its chill over South Africa, the warmth of legendary British crooner Engelbert Humperdinck’s voice is set to heat Cape Town on Sunday, 14 July 2024.  The iconic performer is bringing his ‘The Last Waltz’ Farewell Tour to South Africa this July, promising fans an unforgettable experience.

In a delightful interview with Amelia Hayes, Engelbert, as he prefers to be called, shares his journey, his memories and what fans can expect from his final tour.

The birth of Engelbert Humperdinck

Before he became Engelbert Humperdinck, the singer was known as Gerry Dorsey. His career began in small clubs, where if you didn’t have a hit song, you would have to do more than just sing to captivate your audience. “I couldn’t play an instrument so I did impressions, including a very good one of Jerry Lewis, which led my friends to suggest the stage name Gerry,” he recalls.

However, after battling a long bout of tuberculosis, he found it difficult to re-launch his career. His agent at the time, Gordon Mills, suggested a name change that would alter the course of his life forever.  “Gordon took a song I had written, ‘Stay,’ to Decca Records, initially under Gerry Dorsey, but it didn’t make an impression. So he changed the name on the record and took it back to another executive at Decca and I was signed on the spot under Engelbert Humperdinck!” he reminisces.

“No one calls me by my original name – even my family went along with the change to maintain the persona.” He fondly recalls people making fun of the name too.  Dean Martin, who became a good friend, would call him ‘Humpy Bumpy Lumpy Dumpy’.   

With 300 fan clubs around the world, his most ardent fans also came up with some creative variations of this name, referring to themselves as ‘Humperdinckers’ and ‘Dinglehoppers’, but despite the jokes, the unusual name was to turn into a romantic image, which thrilled him.

Legendary hits

Engelbert’s career skyrocketed with the launching of ‘Release Me’ in 1967, a song that kept The Beatles off the top spot in the UK singles’ charts.  ” The song came out at about the same time the Beatles released ‘Penny Lane and ‘Strawberry Field’but the record sat on the shelf for three months without much success. Then, I got a last-minute spot on ‘Sunday Night at the London Palladium.’  The next day, record sales soared and the album went on to sell over a million copies,” he says, taking us back to this era.  “I did actually meet Ringo and Paul later—who were most gracious despite me keeping them from their 13th number one hit,” he remembers, with a twinkle in his eye.

In 2022, Engelbert Humperdinck’s 1968 smash hit “A Man Without Love” won over legions of new fans thanks to its appearance in a Marvel Cinematic Universe series called Moon Knight. “It was thrilling to see a song from 50 years ago make a comeback with younger audiences and hit number one again!” he exclaims.

Collaborations and duets

Engelbert has performed with many greats over the years. When asked about his dream collaboration, he found it difficult to pick just one. “I love collaborating with other artists – it keeps you inspired!  I have had the privilege of working with some incredible people like Dionne Warwick, Willie Nelson, Jean Simmons from KISS, Johnny Mathis, Charles Aznavour, the lovely Olivia Newton-John, Lulu, Winona Judd, Kenny Rogers and many, many more.”   

“Right now,” he adds, “Lady Gaga would be a dream duet.  I admire her talent and musicianship immensely.  She did wonderful things with Tony Bennett and she’s definitely one person I would like to collaborate with, if it were possible.  My door is open, let’s put it that way.”

The magic of Las Vegas

In the 1970s, Engelbert was a mainstay in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, as he describes it, and an amazing place to work.  “Seeing my name in neon lights for the first time was breathtaking,” he says. ” My suite at the Riviera Hotel faced the Marquee where other greats of that era had stood proud; Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and now it was my turn.  As I saw those letters go up one at a time it hit me that I had arrived.”

Today, he continues to incorporate elements from those Vegas shows into his performances, delighting audiences with classic hits – the music they want to hear –  like ‘The Last Waltz’, ‘Release Me’, ‘A Man Without Love’ and a song he penned over 30 years ago for his wife, the words to which are still so poignant, that he always includes them, keeping the promise he made to her.

Memorable encounters

Among the countless celebrities and legendary figures with which Engelbert has met and garnered friendships, one interaction stands out: a compliment to Jimi Hendrix on his signature jacket. “Jimi offered it to me, right then and there – but I didn’t take it – a mistake in hindsight!” he laughs.

“Many of my good friends, like Elvis, Sammy and Dean Martin, are in heaven now, but I’ll always cherish being a part of their lives and hold those memories and experiences dear.”

Staying grounded on tour

Engelbert’s extensive touring has led to some unique rituals. “I am a believer, and  always set up a small altar in my dressing room with various saints, idols, and holy water. It’s a ritual that has kept me going and keeps me grounded, and one I will continue until God calls me.”

Reflecting on achievements

With over 150 million records sold worldwide, Engelbert finds it hard to pinpoint his most significant achievement. “I have had a lot of wonderful things happen in my life – too many to count or pick just one.  Back then, you had to sell a million albums to go Gold and over a million to go Platinum so I am especially proud of the many awards and achievements I have amassed and that hold pride of place in my home.   It makes all the hard work tangible,” he reflects.

Advice for aspiring artists

“My advice to aspiring artists is to get involved in all aspects of show business. Write your own material so you can show your range as an artist, and earn residuals rather than just royalties from covering other people’s songs.  And always be ready to seize opportunities,” suggests Engelbert Humperdinck.

Looking forward to South African fans

In the midst of his ‘The Last Waltz’ Farewell Tour, Engelbert remains enthusiastic about performing. “I’ve just come off sell-out shows in Australia. It’s wonderful to know people still love my music. I’ve been in the business for 58 years and I’m not tired of it;  I love doing it! So, is this my ‘Last Waltz’…? We shall have to wait and see,” he says with a hint of a smile.

He expresses his excitement at being in South Africa again: “I’ve always loved visiting South Africa, though I’ve only been here in the warmer months – this time I’ll get to experience a different side of your beautiful country and hopefully get to explore a bit more if time permits.”

Engelbert Humperdinck will be performing on Friday, 12 July at the SunBet Arena, Time Square Casino in Pretoria, and at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town, on Sunday, 14 July and tickets are available through Webtickets.  Fans are in for an unforgettable experience if the rave reviews from his sold-out shows in Australia are anything to go by.

Safe travels, Mr Humperdinck, and don’t forget your sweater!

How to book tickets to the Cape Town show

The Cape Town leg of his ‘Last Waltz’ tour (which follows a performance in Pretoria) takes place on Sunday, 14 July 2024, at 4pm at GrandWest Casino’s Grand Arena, a venue known for hosting numerous international stars and providing great food, amenities, and state-of-the-art sound.

Cost: R495pp – R1495pp. Book through Webtickets

When: Sunday, 14 July at 4pm
Where: Grand Arena, GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World, 1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Goodwood, Cape Town

https://whatsonincapetown.com/interview-with-engelbert-humperdinck/?fbclid=IwY2xjawDxTTZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHegAmPFfLai2H13OWpdjWOpCFaG6dZPecTwbN6wB3GSvJlfWrMSVb2fiWw_aem_b3EaGZ4Yy4hwTiz2AhjMkg

His tour starts there later this year

28 June 2024 Author: Anna Sky Magliola HelloRayo.UK

Engelbert Humperdinck joined Jackie Brambles on Greatest Hits Radio to talk about his upcoming tour, and why the London Palladium holds a special place in his heart.

The singer joined us from his home in Los Angeles, but he grew up in the UK, and spoke about his first performance at the London Palladium, and why he'll be starting his new tour there.

"I want to tell you, it's the one place that started my life," he explained. "So I owe that place a great deal, and the memories of it were just wonderful, because after my first hit at the London Palladium, that's what gave me the hit actually, that particular show. Because ‘Release Me’ was sitting on the shelf for three months prior to me doing that particular show."

He went on to explain they didn't think it would be a hit, continuing: "Jukebox Jury voted it a mess and god was on my side and I got that show and the very next day its sold 80,000 / 90,000 a day and like that, it kept doing that each day for about six weeks. 

"And it just stayed in the chart, went to Number 1 in the charts and stopped The Beatles from having the 13th Number 1, this unknown person from Leicester, and it was just an amazing time in my life, you know."

He ended: "It was a life-changing appearance."

The singer, who will be embarking on his 'The Last Waltz Farewell Tour' this September, admitted it doesn't mean he is going to retire.

Englebert explained the reason behind its name: "Who knows? I mean, it's the title of one of my songs, you know, one of our BIG songs that went around the world... People do the last tour and it can go on for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 years, you know." 

He continued: "I do just keep going and that's the best way to go in fact. I believe in keeping your body healthy and doing the things that you do and that you love to do and that of course for me it's just singing."

When is Engelbert Humperdinck on tour in the UK?

Engelbert Humperdinck will be playing four dates in the UK, the full list of dates are below.

September 2024

London, Palladium - Sun 8th

Manchester, Opera House - Mon 9th

Birmingham, Symphony Hall - Tue 10th

Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall - Thu 12th

https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/entertainment/music/engelbert-humperdinck-london-palladium/