Grace Stokes 22 May 2024 scenestr

The lights of Vivid blaze across Sydney Harbour drawing patterns in the sky as soft drizzle settles in for the evening.

However, inside the Opera House (20 May) it is warm, dry and packed to capacity for Engelbert Humperdinck's farewell tour.

The show begins with a '50s television announcing 'An Evening with Engelbert Humperdinck'. Bond-esque videos of the young man play, with him shooting and driving recklessly. The real Humperdinck enters to rapturous applause. "Well hello there," he sings. Why talk when you can sing your entire entrance?

"My it's been a long, long time. How are you doing? I guess I'm doing fine," the notes roll out like a red carpet. "It seems like it was only yesterday," he sings from 'Funny How Time Slips Away', his voice strong and beautiful, belying his years.

"This is a strange line," Humperdinck speaks for the first time, interjecting before singing, "I gotta go now," then shrugging. He is feeling cheeky, swaying across the stage in his black tuxedo and slightly unbuttoned white shirt. "Time slips away," he brings down a lovely opening.

The band flow straight into 'Am I That Easy To Forget', as the stage floods stunning pinks and purples that blend to an electric orange. The crowd adore the song, singing with all their might.

"It's been five, six years I've been performing," Humperdinck begins the first conversation of the night with tongue firmly in cheek. "I still get nervous." The crowd laugh. "My legs were shaking, I thought I was going to have to do this," Humperdinck mimics lying down, before transitioning to sentimentality.

"Music has been my passport," he shares emotionally. "Thank you for coming to the farewell tour. Just let me into your life," he begs passionately, as the stage glows a glorious orange. It feels like Vegas in the '70s, a warm, nostalgic feeling.

Humperdinck sustains a note, climaxing the song before blowing a kiss to the crowd. They clearly adore him. "I got lucky twice with this one," he shares regarding 'A Man Without Love'. "It was in 'Moon Knight' and went to number one on Spotify. Can you believe that? I recorded it 50 years ago!" The crowd cheer.

He places his foot on the fold-back, leaning forward like an enticing Lothario, much to the audience's delight. "My back is giving me agony," he changes one of the song's lyrics, gripping it and hopping as he returns to centre-stage. Humperdinck is one heck of an entertainer. The lights fade down like a sunrise, and you have just obtained a core life memory.

'After The Lovin' is smooth and sad like the last whiskey of a long night. The curtains drip purple appearing like jellyfish, and Humperdinck characteristically commands the stage from end to end.

"It's time to make myself a little loose," he declares, an attendant taking his jacket while Humperdinck unbuttons his shirt more than a couple. The crowd reacts to the scandal. "There's no alcohol in here," Humperdinck states, gesturing to his drinks table. "It's been many moons time since any alcohol has passed these lips. And. . . I also lie."

He starts 'It's Not Unusual' in Tom Jones style, miming a hip thrust before abandoning the song. The crowd laughs hysterically for their man. 'Ten Guitars' jives along before Humperdinck announces it's request time. Yells ring out before he replies, "we'll do my one first".

"I'm really going to sit down for this," Humperdinck says before 'If You Don't Know Me By Now’. "It's the only time I get to rest. I don't get any in bed," he jokes. "All the women banging on my door. Finally, I go and let them out." The crowd erupts.

The song is another deeply touching sing-along, before 'Faithfully' – a Journey cover – carries on the sentimentality.

Frankie Valli's 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You' begins under pink beams. Humperdinck grabs the chorus by the collar and turns it upside down. Not many can take this song like he does. What a man.

"I'm going to ask my keyboard player Alicia to dance with me for this one," he says. "I can't dance Engelbert," she replies. "I will!" one patron screams.

Humperdinck tells Alicia he learnt to dance from the hokey pokey. "I shouldn't sing that," he stops. "The writer died recently and they buried him in a very strange way." "How?" Alicia asks. "One foot in then one foot out," Humperdinck jokes.

The crowd groans with wry smiles as 'Quando, Quando, Quando' begins. Humperdinck gyrates, before the decidedly metal-haired guitarist takes front of stage, shredding his telecaster. The fusion works.

Humperdinck dons a Crocodile Dundee hat for 'You're The First, The Last, My Everything' as the lights shine yellow circles on the ground. Another guitar solo takes the bridge, flowing smooth and silky.

Humperdinck tells a story of golfing with Clint Eastwood who was asked by Toby Keith how he does so much in his 90s. "Clint said, 'Toby I just don't let the old man in'." The song, like Humperdinck himself, is a touching reminder that life is what you make it, at any age.

'Old Time Rock And Roll' plays with solos from each band member. Alicia shines with her vocal rendition. Humperdinck then tears our hearts out by sharing he wrote 

'Everywhere I Go' for his wife, who is now in heaven. "I promised I would sing this everywhere I go." It is everything you imagine it would be, and you wonder if anyone will ever write a song about you. It climaxes in crashing drums and searing guitar notes.

'The Last Waltz' provides the heartiest sing-along of the night. A wonderfully crafted song and a stunning rendition. A medley of hits follows as Humperdinck dabs his forehead with his red handkerchief. He has worked hard here this evening.

'Release Me' proves popular and closes the regular set, as the band play through the obligatory stage exit. "Thank you for being a wonderful audience," Humperdinck gestures. "Applause is the food of an artist, and thank you for not starving me or my band tonight."

He adds: "Singers are lucky, because we can use our tools to vent our feelings. I hope you felt our emotion here tonight."

'How Do You Keep The Music Playing' is a beautiful start to the encore as blue smoke swirls around the stage. Humperdinck stuns with a heart wrenching, elongated final note. 

'For The Good Times' closes the set gently, as Humperdinck declares: "Well I've had a good time." He sings out the finals chorus shaking every hand in the front row.

"You remember I love you," he says, donning in a freshly supplied red bathrobe with gold cuffs. After handing out many of his signature red handkerchiefs, he departs all too soon.

Time flew as we were transported to another place. Humperdinck is astounding. To do what he does at any age is a feat of performance. The love he endues within so many is well deserved. A treasure, it was an absolute pleasure to have seen such a legend in such an iconic venue.

https://scenestr.com.au/music/review-engelbert-humperdinck-sydney-opera-house-20240522

18 May 2024 Written By Matthew Hocter Beyond the Encore

So much of my childhood has been shaped by the melodies that danced through our house, weaving themselves into the very air I breathed. Curated mostly by my mothers hand, her musical selections filled our home with the heart-stopping tremors of Elvis' growl, the aching vulnerability of Roy Orbison's balladry, and the smoldering intensity of Tom Jones. But then there was Engelbert Humperdinck, a name that rolled off the tongue like a forbidden foreign phrase. Unlike the others, his wasn't a voice that ignited, but one that enveloped. A velvet cloak of sound draped over heartache and hope, his music resonated on a deeper level, a timeless echo that has continued to transcend generations. He wasn't just another pretty face amongst a plethora of handsome crooners; but rather a constant hum that shaped not just the memories of my childhood, but provided a large part of the musical landscape within our home.

The 88-year-old Humperdinck's The Last Waltz Tour in Australia is more than just a victory lap for one of musics most accomplished artists; it's a carefully curated farewell symphony, ensuring a vibrant final note for a career that has spanned in excess of six decades. Sold-out venues across the country, packed with his devoted "Humperdincksters," speak volumes about the emotional resonance his music has held to them and all those that have joined them at his shows. Adelaide's Her Majesty's Theatre became a place that showcased the testament of the indelible mark that Humperdinck has etched on the lives of his fans, a poignant reminder of the enduring power that his music has had, and continues to have on them.

While age is a topic that generally isn’t relevant to performance, especially given the unfortunate prevalence of ageism, Humperdinck's The Last Waltz Tour is a reminder of the respect and acknowledgement that his 88 years on this earth so deserves. Here, age becomes a badge of honor, a testament of unwavering dedication to his craft. Though his voice may have matured over the years, his stage presence remains undeniably captivating. It's an unforced blend of charisma, intellect, along with a disarming  and self depreciating sense of humor.

With a catalogue of work as extensive as his, curating a setlist to please most, was clearly no easy feat. Opening with the poignant Willie Nelson cover "Funny How Time Slips Away" and setting a tone of reflection, it was also a subtle acknowledgment of the passing years. Seamlessly transitioning into classics like "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You" and "A Man Without Love," again reminded the audience of the enduring power of his music. Backed by his tight five-piece band and beautifully guided by the musical direction of pianist Anne Shuttlesworth, Humperdinck delivered a performance that for the most part, could best be described as ageless.

As the show continued, emotions were running high with the Humperdincksters dancing and clapping to numbers like "Quando, Quando, Quando" and "Bésame Mucho." Yet, the evening offered more than just revelry. Poignant ballads like "If You Don't Know Me By Now" eased their way through the sentimental crowd, prompting introspective moments. Particularly noteworthy was "Don't Let The Old Man In," a song that felt less like a performance and more like a shared philosophy. Humperdinck seemed to offer a subtle wink, perhaps even a secret to his own enduring career – a refusal to surrender to the limitations of age. This harmony between infectious energy and heartfelt reflection created a truly beautiful experience. Music doesn't just move us physically, more often than not it's the emotional and intellectual that cuts the deepest.

As the show drew to a close, the final two encores capped an evening steeped in nostalgia and the privilege of witnessing a living legend live. But it was the moment after a heartfelt rendition of "Release Me (And Let Me Love Again)," that Humperdinck, bathing in the warm glow of the spotlight, turned to the crowd and said with thanks “Applause is the food of an artist." If that adage holds truth, then Adelaide tonight served up a banquet fit for a king. The standing ovation that followed wasn't merely an acknowledgment of his performance; it was a testament to the enduring power of music to nourish the soul, a feast that would sustain him not just for a lifetime, but for many lifetimes. This is when the true meaning of legendary becomes clear.

https://www.beyondtheencore.com/live/engelbert-humperdinck-the-last-waltz-tour-her-majestys-theatre-adelaide

OnYourMarkus

Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Saturday 18 May 2024, Her Majesty’s Theatre, South Australia

Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre hosted the timeless allure of Engelbert Humperdinck last night! His name alone evokes an era of romance and melody, and his 2024 Australian tour is nothing short of a spectacular homage to his enduring legacy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this tour is a must-see event that promises to deliver unforgettable memories.

The Voice That Time Forgot

Engelbert’s voice, rich and velvety, remains as captivating as ever. From the moment he steps on stage, the audience is transported back to the golden age of music. His opened the show and captured us immediately, setting the tone for an evening of pure nostalgia from the first couple of songs. Each note was delivered with the same passion and precision that made him a star in the 1960s. It’s a rare gift to hear an artist whose voice defies the passage of time, and Engelbert certainly possesses that magic.

A Masterful Performer

What truly sets Engelbert apart is his charisma and stage presence AND he’s bloody funny. He interacts with the audience with a warmth that feels genuine and heartfelt. His anecdotes between songs are filled with humor and wisdom, offering glimpses into his illustrious career. There’s a twinkle in his eye as he recounts stories from his early days, and the crowd hangs on every word.

A Stellar Setlist

The setlist is a well-curated mix of his greatest hits and delightful surprises. Classics like ‘The Last Waltz’ and ‘A Man Without Love’ had the audience swaying and singing along. But it was his rendition of ‘Quando, Quando, Quando’ that truly brought the house down. The arrangement was fresh yet faithful to the original, showcasing Engelbert’s ability to reinvent his music while staying true to its roots. Simply Red’s ‘If You Don’t Know Me By Now’ went down a right treat BUT his song for his late wife, Patricia, played our heart strings, ‘Release Me’ is a song that encompasses all that is pure love, and I do believe he had a genuine tear in his eye during this performance.

An Impressive Band

Engelbert’s band deserves a special mention. The musicians were in perfect sync, providing a lush backdrop that complemented his vocals beautifully. The orchestration was exquisite, with each instrument adding a layer of depth to the performance. It’s clear that Engelbert surrounds himself with top-notch talent, enhancing the overall concert experience. Not even a tech issue with his musical director’s keys slowed the pace down, he took it in his stride and blissfully bantered with us all.

A Personal Touch

One of the highlights of the evening was when Engelbert handed out his hankerchiefs. It was a touching moment that highlighted his connection with his fans. He genuinely enjoys making people feel special, and this personal touch added an extra layer of charm to the show. It almost appeared the gentleman and old-school showman didn’t want to leave us, he comes to life on stage and he knows it.

Wrapping It Up

Engelbert Humperdinck’s 2024 Australian tour is a testament to his enduring appeal and timeless talent. A sold-out house is proof of that. It’s a celebration of music that transcends generations, bringing joy and nostalgia to all who attend. Whether you’re reliving fond memories or creating new ones, this concert is an experience you won’t want to miss.

So, if you find yourself with the opportunity to see Engelbert live, seize it. It’s not just a concert; it’s a journey through the soundtrack of our lives (my parents owned the vinyls), led by a maestro who knows exactly how to touch our hearts. Here’s to many more years of Engelbert Humperdinck, the voice that continues to serenade the world. While the title of the tour is ‘The Last Waltz’, he teased us that it might not yet be…

https://onyourmarkus.au/reviews/review-engelbert-humperdinck-2024-australian-tour/

by PAUL CASHMERE on MAY 17, 2024 NOISE11.COM

As Engelbert Humperdinck took to the stage at his sold-out concert at The Star Casino Broadbeach it was clear that there was no releasing him.

Looking trim (and way below is age of 88) and in pitch perfect voice the British superstar was greeted by a standing ovation as he began to serenade his 2000 plus crowd “Ain’t It Funny How Times Slips Away”

Hit after hit followed including ‘Quando Quando Quando’, ‘Man Without Love’, ‘Spanish Eyes’ all being met by huge crowd applause and wolf whistles from the approximately 90% female crowd.

Simply Red’s “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” gave the enthusiastic audience a chance to sing along with the superstar and then showcasing a track from his upcoming CD with “a different style of music” namely Journeys “Faithfully”.

There was not a dry eye in the house as Engelbert dedicated a song he wrote ‘Everywhere I Go’ to his late wife Patricia.

Engelbert gave the audience a rousing country edition of Barry White’s ‘My First My Last My Everything’ and followed that with an excuse for the audience dance the night away with New Zealand’s “second national anthem” “Ten Guitars”.

There was another short medley of hits including ‘Am I That Easy To Forget’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ and his smash hit Grammy award winning ‘After The Lovin’, then
Engelbert left the stage to another standing ovation which seem to go on for more than 10 mins before returning to thank his audience before serenading them with ‘The Last Waltz’ and ‘’Release Me’ – his multi million platinum selling #1 debut hit from 1967.

Another exit from the stage before The Humper reappeared in a red Versace dressing gown to complete the evening sitting on a stool at the lip of the stage to perform heartfelt renditions of ‘How Do You Keep The Music Playing’ and Kris Kristofferson’s mega hit ‘For The Good Times’. It was abundantly clear that everyone had “a good time” and did not want to “release” their idol.

At any age this type of set list (18 songs) would prove challenging (he has 8 sold out shows across Australia in 12 days) but at 88 years young seems to be unimaginable 

To be in the audience of such a legend was a blessing and I (and 2000 Gold Coasters) thank him for gracing us with his presence.

https://www.noise11.com/news/the-legend-engelbert-humperdinck-performs-for-gold-coast-fans-in-queensland-review-20240517

Tickets on sale this Friday, May 10 at 10am.

By: A.A. CristiMay. 06, 2024 Broadway World

Massey Hall welcomes international recording icon Engelbert Humperdinck to the Allan Slaight Stage on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, May 10th at 10am ET and can be purchased via the Massey Hall box office at 416-872-4255 or online at www.masseyhall.com.

For more than six decades, music legend Engelbert Humperdinck has shared a love affair with fans of every age, on every continent. One of the world's most instantly recognizable voices, Engelbert's music has withstood the test of time, thanks to his sensitive interpretation of lyrics… and he has never limited himself to just one musical genre, recording everything from pop to disco and from rock to gospel.

Engelbert remains the consummate global entertainer, a rare example of unequaled style and sophistication, who continues to thrill sold-out audiences everywhere. His fan club is one of the largest in the world and his fans' appreciation has never been taken for granted. He continues to seek out and conquer creative challenges, which keep his admirers delighted, satisfied and eager for more. His farewell tour promises to be a crowning moment of his already-legendary career. 

Engelbert's hits include Release Me, After the Lovin', Spanish Eyes, The Last Waltz, Quando Quando Quando and There Goes My Everything, Am I That Easy to Forget and A Man Without Love.

For priority ticket access and exclusive perks, music fans can become a member.

Becoming a member means supporting the Hall's charitable work - that funds educational programming and artist development initiatives - while enjoying exclusive member perks. Members enjoy benefits that range from advance notice for upcoming shows, early access to ticket sales, members lounge access, exclusive monthly ticket contests, personalized ticketing service, special discounts, event invitations and much more. Fans can pick between five levels: Friend, Platinum, Royal, Marquee Club, Marquee Circle and our new Corporate Marquee Club. To learn more about our membership tiers, visit https://www.mhrth.com/about/membership. 

https://www.broadwayworld.com/toronto/article/Engelbert-Humperdinck-Brings-Farewell-Tour-To-Massey-Hall-In-November-20240506

Lauren Novak  May 2, 2024 Remind Magazine

Engelbert Humperdinck, born Arnold George Dorsey, has been performing love ballads for decades. The British pop singer found success in North America in the 1970s with big hits “After the Lovin'” (1976) and “This Moment in Time” (1979). He had a resurgence in the 1990s, oddly enough for recording the song “Lesbian Seagull” for the soundtrack of Beavis and Butt-Head Do America (1996). After over 50 years of performing, he isn’t done yet! The 88-year-old has a lot to be excited about this year. He released his most recent album, All About Love, about a year ago. The self-proclaimed hopeless romantic is also the subject of a new documentary called Engelbert Humperdinck: The Legend Continues and is heading out on his farewell tour this spring.

He shared about being able to create new music and continue to tour, “When people go to a concert, they want to hear the old songs they can relate to. I’m grateful that the songs I recorded over 50 years ago are still as precious as when I recorded them.” Humperdinck also teased new music coming next year! He added, “Next year, I will step out of my comfort zone and do something a little bit different. It’s a rather unusual concept album. Hopefully, people will enjoy this new music. I am very excited about it.”

Engelbert Humperdinck talks about meeting Elvis Presley & Dean Martin plus feud with Tom Jones

In addition to sharing updates with fans, he recently spoke about some of his famous friends, including Dean Martin and Elvis Presley. He said about meeting Presley, “One of the most gracious people I’ve ever met in my life. You know when you first meet somebody, they usually shake hands? Well, this guy didn’t. He embraced me. We got on well together. He would come see my show, and I would go see his show in Vegas.”

Humperdinck also spoke highly of Dean Martin after appearing on his show. He said, “He was such a character. He never ever called me ‘Engelbert.’ He always called me ‘Humpty Bumpy Lumpty Dumpty.’ He was the most incredible person I’ve ever met in my life. A wonderful, wonderful man.”

While he spoke highly of Martin and Presley, one fellow singer he doesn’t like is Tom Jones. The two have bashed each other for years and recently confirmed that they still don’t get along. Humperdinck said of Jones, “I think he’s lost his voice. I don’t think he’s got it anymore.

Engelbert Humperdinck opens up about losing the love of his life

Although there is so much to be excited and grateful for, Humperdinck is still mourning the loss of his wife Patricia after being together for almost 60 years. She passed away in 2021 and he recalled, “Without her, I don’t think I would have been where I am today. She was very, very supportive of me, and she put up with a lot. She raised the children because I was on the road all the time. She was the backbone to my life. When I lost her, I lost part of my life. There’s a song that I dedicate to her in my show. It’s a song I wrote 30 years ago, and now the lyrics are even more poignant. It touches me every time I sing it.”

https://www.remindmagazine.com/article/13896/engelbert-humperdinck-new-music-tour-documentary-88-years-old/

30 April 2024 News24.com

• British musical legend Engelbert Humperdinck's ‘The Last Waltz’ Farewell Tour’ to Cape Town and Gauteng in July

• With a career spanning over six decades, he has sold over 150 million records worldwide and received numerous awards, including four Grammy nominations and a Golden Globe.

• Humperdinck is known for songs like Quando, Quando, Quando and A Man Without Love

British musical legend Engelbert Humperdinck has thrilled audiences for decades with his timeless classics and charismatic performances. Now, after an illustrious career spanning over six decades, he has announced his final hoorah, ‘The Last Waltz’ Farewell Tour’, set to captivate audiences in Cape Town and Gauteng later this year.

Engelbert Humperdinck, born Gerry Dorsey, rose to international fame in 1965, enchanting listeners with his romantic melodies. With hits like 'Release Me’, ‘A Man Without Love’ and 'The Last Waltz’, he has sold over 150 million records worldwide and received numerous accolades, including four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe for Entertainer of the Year, and he is one of only a handful of artists with a star on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Las Vegas Walk of Fame.

In a recent interview, Engelbert described his methodology when it comes to music, stating, "I have always approached my music with a romantic touch, singing these wonderful lyrics about love. I think romance is what makes the world go round."  It is this enduring passion for music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

Reflecting on his journey, Engelbert shared memories of his childhood in Madras, India, where his love for music blossomed within his family. Despite early struggles in his career, he persevered, eventually finding success with hits like 'Release Me,' which transformed his life and career.  Engelbert's influence extended beyond music, as he formed friendships with icons like Elvis Presley and Dean Martin, Tony Bennet, Jerry Lewis and Sammy Davis Jr., who all left a lasting impression on him.   

Don't miss the chance to witness a music icon bid farewell to the stage, in style. Audiences can expect an unforgettable evening of timeless classics and heartfelt performances as Engelbert Humperdinck takes them on a journey through his remarkable musical legacy.   

Sunbet Arena -12 Jul 2024 & GrandWest - 14 Jul 2024

 SummerRaine May 1, 2024  SA Music News & Entertainment

The Last Waltz Farewell Tour By Engelbert Humperdinck –  Don’t miss out on the chance to witness a music icon bid farewell to the stage, in style.

British musical legend and ‘King of Romance’ Engelbert Humperdinck, renowned for hits like ‘The Last Waltz,’ ‘Release Me,’ ‘A Man Without Love,’ ‘Quando Quando Quando,’ ‘There Goes My Everything,’ and ‘Spanish Eyes,’ will perform ‘The Last Waltz’ Farewell Tour in South Africa this July. With over 150 million records sold worldwide, he has captivated audiences with his timeless classics for over six decades.

The tour will visit Cape Town and Gauteng. Taking off at SunBet Arena, Time Square Casino, Pretoria, on Friday, 12 July 2024. Following this, catch the show at Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town on Sunday, 14 July 2024.

Get your tickets for Engelbert Humperdinck here

https://www.samusicnews.co.za/events/the-last-waltz-farewell-tour-by-engelbert-humperdinck/

He’s calling his farewell tour The Last Waltz and at 87 that seems a fair call for the legendary Engelbert Humperdinck

Sean Sennett

Mar 26, 2024, updated Mar 26, 2024 In Queensland

Almost 60 ago Engelbert Humperdinck enjoyed the biggest hit of his career with a grand tearjerker of a ballad called Release Me.

In 1967 the song hit number one in 11 countries and spent 56 consecutive weeks on the UK charts. Now Humperdinck is embarking, at 87 years young, on The Last Waltz Farewell Tour, which is quickly selling out venues all over the country.

On a video call from his home in the US the singer still looks a million dollars. The American sunshine is a lifetime away from where he began his career in the working men’s clubs of Britain.

“I started off doing an engineering job,” Humperdinck recalls. “My Dad said, ‘You need a proper job’. That lasted a year and I said, ‘Dad, I can’t do this’. I started singing in a working men’s club. Everyone was having a pint of beer and then getting up to sing. I thought I’d have a go.

“When I’d finished I had people all around me asking me who my agent was. I was only 17. That gave me the courage to sing. If you can sing in a working men’s club and please them, you can please a crowd anywhere. They’re a tough mob. If they didn’t like you, they’d throw a pint over you.”

Humperdinck slogged it out for years in those clubs waiting for his big break. He wanted to emulate the great Nat King Cole, because he felt Cole “knew how to mould a ballad to suit his voice”. While waiting to find his own ballad, a shot at the big time almost didn’t happen.

On his manager’s advice he changed his name from Gerry Dorsey to Engelbert Humperdinck and eventually cut Release Me. The song appeared on Jukebox Jury and the panel voted a resounding “no” with regards to it being a hit.

“I thought it was a hit from the get-go,” he explains. “But after Jukebox Jury it sat on the shelf for about three months, and I was wondering if it was going to take off. It had some promotion prior to being released, but never something really big.

“That finally came with a television appearance on a program called Sunday Night at the London Palladium. A friend of mine, Dickie Valentine, got sick and I took his place at that particular show and the very next day it started selling 80,000 copies a day and then 90,000 copies a day. It went up to 127, 000 copies a day.”

Famously the song kept The Beatles juggernaut double A-side Strawberry Fields Forever/Penny Lane off the top spot and led to a slew of hits for the singer that included The Last Waltz, There Goes My Everything and others.

Despite his reputation as a balladeer, Humperdinck had some serious rock’n’roll friends. Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page worked as a session guitarist on Release Me and Humperdinck also shared the bill on a tour with Jimi Hendrix. One night when Humperdinck’s  guitarist fell ill, Jimi stepped in.

“He said, ‘Don’t worry man, I’ll play for you’,” Humperdinck says, laughing at the thought. “I told him he couldn’t do that, he was a star. So he stood behind the curtain with his music laid out and played. It sounded like three guitars back there. He was a lovely person, he’d give you the coat off his back. In fact, I complimented him on his army tunic one day and he offered to give it to me!”

At the height of his fame Humperdinck counted Elvis Presley as a friend, and his stable mate Tom Jones as a sometimes friend and sometimes rival. It irked him when the manager Humperdinck shared with Jones, Gordon Mills, “didn’t show the same care for my career as he did for Jones or Gilbert O’Sullivan”.

Tom Jones was often given most of the good songs, or Mills threw film scripts pitched to Humperdinck in the bin without the singer seeing them as he wanted him in a studio rather than on set for six months.

It’s a frustration that continues to this day. Humperdinck recently discovered the mega-selling Gorillaz tried to get him on a song and were told “no” by Humperdinck’s management. The move led to Humperdinck finding new management. Still, there’s little that dampens the singer’s enthusiasm.

“What’s happened is in the past,” he says. “What’s gone is gone. I live in the now. I don’t regret anything that has gone bad … and I was taken for a lot of money.”

The singer is still keen to record new material and is working on a new album, the details of which are hush-hush.

“I’m working on a concept record,” he says. “It’s out of my comfort zone, but we’re working on it right now. By the time I get to Australia I’ll have part of it finished. I’m hoping the whole album will be finished in two or three months. It’s different. I can’t tell you too much.”

As for the tour, Humperdinck will keep singing for audiences as long as he is physically able.

“I really don’t know,” he muses. “We’ve called it The Last Waltz. People have their last tours and they tour it for five years. Cher’s been on her final tour for about six years. It’s important to keep a good mindset. With me it’s in the lap of the gods. How far it goes? We’ll see.”

Engelbert Humperdinck: The Last Waltz plays the QPAC Concert Hall, May 13 and 14.

https://www.inqld.com.au/arts-culture/music/2024/03/26/still-touring-at-87-could-this-be-engelbert-humperdincks-last-waltz

MusicNews.Com 18 Mar 2024

2024 looks to be a milestone year for the globally adored Engelbert Humperdinck. The timeless icon of music, who has enjoyed a seven-decade career, will be celebrated with a major reissue campaign from his original record label, Decca Records.

In an incredible career that has spanned over 60 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 140 million records worldwide, with songs ranging from the most romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and even gospel.

These records have earned 64 gold and 35 platinum albums, four Grammy Award nominations, a Golden Globe, and his own star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.

The programme includes:

Reissues of seminal albums

New CD compilation

Major streaming campaigns with digital EP compilations and bespoke video releases

Includes Valentines digital EP compilation already released

Halloween and Christmas focused digital product 

Coinciding will be a handful of UK concert dates including The London Palladium (September 8), Manchester Opera House (September 9), Birmingham Symphony Hall (September 10) and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (September 12) as part of his huge ‘The Last Waltz Farewell Tour 2024’.

Engelbert exploded on to the music scene with The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. The shy handsome man catapulted almost instantly to world icon. He became great friends with Elvis and the two legends often performed each other’s songs. His first single in the charts was “Release Me,” which went into the Guinness Book of Records for achieving 56 consecutive weeks on the charts. It was No. 1 in 11 countries.

The following decades saw Engelbert constantly touring the world to sell-out crowds. He takes great pleasure in every moment on stage. His music has transcended time and his voice continues to reach out to people now – serving to transport and inspire, to embrace and to provoke feelings and emotions…ingredients that are no doubt the essence of his long-lasting success.

Engelbert was awarded the Honor of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday Honors List 2021.

https://www.music-news.com/news/Underground/171858/Decca-Records-announce-major-reissue-programme-for-British-popular-music-icon-Engelbert-Humperdinck