All about Engelbert Humperdinck, ballad singer for the ages

by Bill Kopp Rock On Magazine

Romantic singer Engelbert Humperdinck is one of the most beloved singers in modern times. He’s also one of the most prolific, with more than 100 albums released between his 1967 debut and today. His latest release, 2023’s All About Love shows that time has not diminished the skills nor appeal of the Madras-born and London-raised singer. Today at age 87, Humperdinck still maintains a busy concert touring schedule, and there’s a new documentary film chronicling his life and career. Ahead of a North American tour that takes him back and forth across the continent (including a January 13 date at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, NV, Humperdinck spoke with Rock On about his enduring passion for music and performance.

On All About Love, you manage the neat trick of sounding contemporary without pandering to trends. Do you personally choose the songs? 

Well, I’ll be honest with you: no. My producer [Jurgen Korduletsch] brings the songs to me, and he asks me, “Do you think you’d like this?” He says, “I think these are going to be good for you,” and I listen to them, because he’s the man who’s making it happen for me. And I say, “Well, some of them.” There are some that he brings to me that I throw out. I pick the songs I think that would be appropriate, and we work together on it.  

On this particular one, all the arrangements were done in Nashville with Nashville musicians, and I wasn’t there. I would have loved to have been there. 

It worked all right, but I’d rather have been there with him. As I do with everything that I do in life, I like to put my little input in every now and again. I like to have my finger on every project, but this particular one, [Jordan] did it on his own. And it worked out.  

When there’s a song that’s suggested and you decide for one reason or another that you don’t care to do it, what kind of reasons figure into that equation?  

If I listen to it, and I don’t think it suits my style,  I just say, “It’s a ‘no’ on this one, but this one looks good.” I’m very particular. 

When you sing a song that has already been a hit for another artist – which is the case with several of the songs on this new album – how much notice do you take of the style in which the song was cut before? 

I just give it my own stamp. And it’s very hard to do, mind you. It’s very hard to do after somebody else [puts their] stamp and style on it, but I do.  

I’m singing a lot differently now than I did when I first began; my style has really changed a lot,  because I’m growing rather than standing still. And the way I read into a lyric now is differently than I did before, because a lot of things have transpired in my life that have been a bit hard. For instance, I lost my wife [Patricia, in 2021]. And so, when I read a lyric now, it’s a lot different. Her image always comes into my head and my heart. So it comes out a lot differently. 

With regard to music, I sometimes think of method actors, even though that’s a very different thing from singing. They immerse themselves in the character that they’re playing. And I wonder if that approach would have value for a ballad singer. Your songs always seem to completely convey the mood that they contain. When there’s a session, do you do any kind of emotional preparation ahead of singing a particular song to get into that headspace? 

I consider myself a thespian of song. Because I think you have to be. Like an actor, you have to read your lines the way it’s written. And like an actor, it comes through your eyes and through the expression of your face and your body language and all those things that go along with portraying your subject matter.  

And that’s what I do on stage now. I live the part, and then you can see it in my expression. You don’t have to move a lot. An actor, if he moves like this, he goes out of the shot. And it’s the same thing when you’re on stage. You have to let [the audience] recognize your moves, and the more you are steady, the more you get across, I think. When you’re moving around, it’s for a different kind of song; not for a ballad, not for something you’re telling a story with. 

You’ve been on stage countless times. To what degree are you able to get a sense of how the audience is reacting to your performance, and how does that factor into what you’re doing in real time? 

Well, you can see the front rows. You can [see] what’s happening in the first few rows, and you can judge from that, what is happening throughout the audience. 

Sometimes it’s rather surprising to the performer, like me, who sees the reaction of what takes place in an audience. Sometimes, when I’m singing a particular song, I can look down and see somebody reach over and touch the person’s hand and squeeze them, or put their arm around them. And it’s just amazing to see what transpires during a performance. It’s rather wonderful to think that you are responsible for that, actually. 

There’s a new documentary, Engelbert Humperdinck: The Legend Continues. What can you tell me about it? 

Well, I haven’t watched many documentaries in my life, but I watched this one because it’s about me! I did it a few years ago, and it was rather shocking, actually, because there were many touching moments in it that made me cry.  

And I also was shocked at the fact that I must’ve been going through some trauma at that particular time, because I was 40 pounds heavier than I am today. It’s shocking to watch myself in that state, you know? When I look at myself today, I’m 200 pounds. At that particular time, it was in the middle of my wife’s illness and having to deal with doing my work plus the worry of what’s going on at home, you know? It was a hard time. 

Following on from that, do you ever find yourself overcome by the emotion of a particular song? 

Many times, yes. As a matter of fact, I wrote a song for my wife about 30 years ago called “Everywhere I Go” [on 1993’s Yours – ed.] If you look it up and listen to it, you’ll understand what I mean with the lyrics, and it’s a wonderful arrangement by Bebu Silvetti. He did all these wonderful string arrangements for me – he did about six albums for me – and he did the arrangement for that particular one.  

Since my wife has been gone, I sing “Everywhere I Go” in my show. I dedicate the song to her, and there’s many a night that I don’t get through it. It’s one of those things.

I would imagine that you take the audience with you on that emotional journey…

Yeah, I do see people weeping in the audience. And it’s something you can’t put on. It just happens, you know? There are nights when it won’t happen, but the majority of shows that I do, it does get me, because it was written for her. And it gets me. 

Are there any surprises in the film for audiences? 

Well, they’ll see footage that they’ve never seen before about my children and growing up. They’ll see me talk about my life in a way that I’ve never done before. You see my humble beginnings, you know? It takes me back to the place where I first began, when I lived in a flat in Hammersmith, London. It had no carpet, no curtains, no light bulbs or lamp shades, and very [few] chairs to sit on. And it took me back to that era. I remember those wonderful days. 

“The Hungry Years," you know, which I had joy in singing, and it brought all sorts of memories back. If you listen to “The Hungry Years” [from 1976’s After the Lovin’], which I had joy in singing, it’s really my life story. I feel as though Neil Sedaka wrote it for me, but he didn’t. He wrote it for himself, so he must’ve been going through the same thing in his beginning. 

Plenty of artists who’ve had successful careers retire when they’re 20 years younger than you are now. What motivates you to keep recording and performing? 

It’s the passion I have. I don’t consider my job as work. When I walk on stage, it’s just a passion. It’s not hard work for me, not at all. I just love what I do, so therefore the passion strengthens my whole being. I just feel good about it.  

If I didn’t want to perform, I wouldn’t get that feeling. But I love it. I love the performance, I love the reaction. And my audience feeds me with the passion that I love to portray.

www.engelbert.com

https://rockonmagazine.com/engelbert-humperdinck

 

https://www.amazon.com/Engelbert-Humperdinck-Legend-Continues/dp/B0CF3L1Z9Q

 

https://geni.us/Engelbert_TLC

November 14, 2023

Doors 6pm/Screening 7pm

The Montalban Theater
1615 Vine Street
Hollywood, CA  90028

 

 

 

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK: The Legend Continues

The Definitive Documentary 

 

November 14th, 2023  / Doors Open at 6pm / Film Starts at 7pm

Live Q&A Session on Stage with Engelbert  Humperdinck 8:15 pm

VIP Meet & Greet Backstage with Engelbert Humperdinck 8:45 pm

 

Limited Edition Merchandise for sale in the Lobby till closing

SYNOPSIS: Engelbert Humperdinck has been entertaining global audiences for decades,accumulating 64 gold albums, 35 platinum albums and a Golden Globe Award along the way.With unprecedented access to Engelbert and his close family, friends and business associates, director Steven Murray delivers a documentary – shot across two continents at locations close to Humperdinck’s heart - which shines an insider’s light on this multitalented, yet humble and unexpectedly humorous musical genius. “EngelbertHumperdinck: The Legend Continues” offers a unique insight into the world of Humperdinck, including never before seen concert footage and funny, frank and touching narration by Engelbert himself.

Tickets available here:

https://themontalban.ticketspice.com/engelbert-humperdinck-the-legend-continues

 

 

Richard Duckett Worcester Telegram & Gazette August 25, 2023

When Engelbert Humperdinck brings his "All About Love" tour to The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts on Sept. 27 he'll be all business.

"That's what my business is all about, really," he said of the subject of love during a recent telephone interview. " I find that's the best way for me to go."

Humperdinck, 87, will be returning to The Hanover Theatre, where he performed in 2018 following the release of his "The Man I Want To Be" album, which was dedicated to his wife, Patricia. "It's a love letter to my wife," he said at the time of Patricia, who had Alzheimer's disease and later passed away in 2021.

The iconic English pop singer/balladeer has sung a lot of songs about love in all its manifestations and ups and downs from the time of his first spectacular 1967 hit single "Release Me." That song is about a person who wants to be released from a relationship because they have found someone new to love. "The Last Waltz" which quickly followed to the top of the charts in 1967 is about the singer's first and last dances with the woman he loves. Other hits have included “A Man Without Love,” which was just featured in Marvel’s “Moon Knight” Disney+ Series more than 50 years after it was first released.

'All About Love'

On May 2, to mark his 87th birthday, Humperdinck released his latest album, "All Abut Love." The album includes renditions of Barry White's "You’re The First, The Last, My Everything,” “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” (Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes), “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” (the Bee Gees), and “Kiss And Say Goodbye” (The Manhattans).

"The new album has a country feel to it," Humperdinck noted. All the tracks were recorded in Nashville.

"All About Love" also includes duets sung partially in Spanish with Mexican starLupita Infante on "Bésame Mucho” and “A Man Without Love” with Angelica Maria.

Humperdinck divides his time between homes in California and England. On the album and on the phone he sounds like you would expect Engelbert Humperdinck to sound — smooth, strong, but with undercurrents of vulnerability. He hasn't lost his English accent, and there's no denying the Englishness of remarks such as the album is "doing quite well. People quite like it."

"When it comes to the personal side of love, Humperdinck said "I'm a one-person lover."

'I think about her all the time'

It was obvious that he feels acutely the loss of his wife, Patricia, who died in 2021 at 85 after contracting COVID-19. He met her at a dance hall when she was 17. She had been battling Alzheimer's disease for more than a decade.

The tenor of the whole conversation changes when he talks about her.

"I think about her all the time," he said. Patricia was "an irreplaceable person."

When he performs his repertoire now, "The lyrics and songs have taken on a different sort of feeling. It hits me in a different way. I read the lyrics in a different way. For some reason it hits home," he said.

"It shows in your face, eyes and voice. My interpretations are a lot different now. When you've suffered a blow lyrics take on a different meaning altogether. But life goes on. You want to keep doing it," he said of performing.

"I keep fresh and I keep performing. That's all I think about these days," he said. His mood lightens when he talks about that.

"I love my job. I love the reaction I get (from fans). They're still with me, and I love that and I'm gonna keep doing it," he said.

'Looking forward to coming back'

He's toured "so many theaters" over the years, but asked about The Hanover Theatre he said, "I do remember coming there. I'm looking forward to coming back."

Another veteran singer who made repeat performances at The Hanover Theatre was Tony Bennett, who died earlier this year aged 96. Both Bennett and Humperdinck performed separate shows at The Hanover Theatre in 2018.

"I met Tony in 1968 when I first came to the United States," Humperdinck recalled.

"A couple of years later he was on my show in England. He did three songs. He was just a great person. I admired him very much."

What's in a name?

Humperdinck was born with the name Arnold George Dorsey and lived for a while as a child with his parents in India before they returned to England and settled in the city of Leicester. Dorsey performed as Gerry Dorsey but his singing career was sidelined for a while by illness. His new manager/agent suggested a change of name. Engelbert Humperdinck (1854–1921) was a German composer best known for the opera "Hansel and Gretel."

"I was a struggling artist. When my new manager came up with the name, I didn't question it," Humperdinck said.

The name was romantic and fun. "It distinguished me from the other guys," he said.

Humperdinck had the name, his good looks, and then he had a winning song, "Release Me." He was 30 and had maybe been wondering if his time would ever come.

The song was originally written by Eddie "Piano" Miller and Robert Yount in 1949, but had been successfully recorded by several artists. 

Humperdinck's version hit No. 1 on the British charts, blocking the Beatles' "Strawberry Fields/Penny Lane" from the spot, the first time in four years that a Beatles single hadn't made No. 1. "Release Me” eventually went into the Guinness Book of Records for achieving 56 consecutive weeks on the charts. It was No. 1 in 11 countries.

Asked if he had a favorite song, Humperdinck said "not really," but did note that "Release Me" was "the one that started it ... I've been very lucky. The songs kept my career going."

A new audience

"A Man Without Love" appearing on Marvel’s “Moon Knight” has helped introduce a younger audience to the singer.

"So now I get young people in my shows," he said.

For Sony Pictures’ 2022 Brad Pitt film “Bullet Train,” Humperdinck was brought in to sing the perennially popular song “Forever Blowing Bubbles.”

A documentary about Humperdinck will be coming out later this year.

All told, Humperdinck has generated sales in excess of 140 million records over the decades, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe (for "Entertainer of the Year"), and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame and Leicester Walk of Fame.

"I have stepped out," he said of performing in different music genres, including a dance album, movie theme songs, disco, rock, and gospel. He was good friends with Elvis Presley.

Meanwhile, he performed for Queen Elizabeth II four times, several presidents and many heads of state.

He was made an MBE in the 2021 Queen's Birthday Honours list, and was presented the award at Windsor Castle in April, 2022, by Princess Anne. The Queen died Sept. 8 last year.

Humperdinck was proud to receive his MBE. "I think anything the Royal Family bestows on you is very important," he said. "I loved our old Queen very much." He recalled that he had also met the Queen Mother

'I'm ready to go back around the world again'

Before coming to The Hanover Theatre, Humperdinck will have performed some engagements in the Philippines, and then will travel across the U.S.

Regarding his remarkable longevity, he said, "Know what it is? I'm a hard worker. I'm always rehearsing and getting new ideas. I've always loved the idea of being in show business, and now with social media (there's) a wonderful way of being in contact."

So don't look for Humperdinck to be retiring any time soon.

"Retirement? It doesn't look like it. Next year is a world tour. I'm ready to go back around the world again."

He also has a new project where he'll be "stepping out of my comfort zone, but can't talk about it right now," he said.

He will "keep working and do what I have to do, and hope the people come along with me."

Engelbert Humperdinck: All About Love Tour

When: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 27

Where: The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester

How much: $49, $59, $69 and $89 depending on seat location. (877) 571-7469; www.thehanovertheatre.org.

https://www.telegram.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/08/25/engelbert-humperdinck-will-be-all-about-love-at-the-hanover-theatre/70645249007/

 

BY JOEE GUILAS Aug 25, 2023 05:34 AM Manila Bulletin

AT A GLANCE

• This September, the legendary British crooner returns to the country as part of his ongoing world tour, “The Legend Continues.” Fans will be serenaded by his passionate performances in a two-night concert at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, on Sept. 9 and 10, 7:30 PM.

Ironic as it may sound, the singer who immortalized the song “Release Me” is not considering releasing his tight hold on fame anytime soon.  Legendary balladeer and frequent Manila visitor Engelbert Humperdinck will soon be en route to another world tour, including a stop in the Philippines this September.

“It’s been four years since my last visit, and I’m looking forward to coming over.  I’m excited about coming over there.  I know that Filipinos love my music.  I’ve been spending a lot of time online, and I see them singing my songs on karaoke,” shared Humperdinck. He said this also prompts him to always have something special for his Filipino fans whenever he is afforded the chance to visit the country.  This next visit is undoubtedly not going to be an exception.

“I have a surprise for the Filipino people when I get there,” he teased.

The promised surprise is on top of the 87-year-old singer’s new album, "All About Love.”  He hopes that some cuts in this new project will be hits just like his classic “Release Me,” which stayed on top of the charts for 56 consecutive weeks in multiple countries.

“The music that I record seems timeless when I recorded them in the past, and I never get tired singing them, especially Release Me,” Humperdinck acknowledged. 

Asked whether or not he is getting tired of singing at his ripe age, Humperdinck stressed that slowing down anytime soon is far-fetched, at least at this point: “Retiring is not a word that I use.  I have such a great following that I don’t want to disappoint them.  Wherever I go, I get such a great reception.”  More than this, however, the debt of gratitude to his craft makes him stick to the life of being a musician.

“Music has been my passport to the world.  It’s made me see countries I’ve never seen before. It’s a wonderful way to make a living.”

This September, the legendary British crooner returns to the country as part of his ongoing world tour, “The Legend Continues.” Fans will be serenaded by his passionate performances in a two-night concert at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, on Sept. 9 and 10, 7:30 PM.

For over 50 years, Humperdinck mastered wooing audiences worldwide, earning him the title “King of Romance.” Among his commercially successful singles are “Release Me,” “Quando Quando Quando,” “Spanish Eyes,” and many more.

While his captivating vocals have charmed millions of fans, the man earned his icon status in the music industry with massive achievements through the decades. Humperdinck rose in the music scene in the 1960s alongside iconic bands The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Throughout his long career, he became a four-time Grammy nominee and released dozens of studio albums, selling over 150 million records. To this day, he consistently showcases his legacy and wins the hearts of listeners across the globe.

Now, given all these tucked into his belt, it should be no wonder why fans are finding it difficult to release his music from their playlists.

https://mb.com.ph/2023/8/25/thrillmaker-the-humperdinck-is-back

 

 

http://www.cnnphilippines.com/videos/2023/8/22/Engelbert-Humperdinck-to-hold-PH-shows-next-month.html

 

August 19, 2023 Blu-Ray.Com

Cleopatra will release on Blu-ray Engelbert Humperdinck - Engelbert Humperdinck: The Legend Continues. The release is scheduled to arrive on the market on November 17. 

Description: Engelbert Humperdinck has been entertaining global audiences for decades, accumulating 64 gold albums, 35 platinum albums and a Golden Globe Award along the way. With unprecedented access to Engelbert and his close family, friends and business associates, director Steven Murray delivers a documentary - shot across two continents at locations close to Humperdinck's heart - which shines an insider's light on this multitalented, yet humble and unexpectedly humorous musical genius. Engelbert Humperdinck: The Legend Continues offers a unique insight into the world of Humperdinck, including never before seen concert footage and funny, frank and touching narration by Engelbert himself. 

Special Features: 

• Slide show

• Trailers

• AND MORE...

https://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=33117

 

14 Aug By Kevin T. Baldwin METRMAG

METRMAG Spotlight On: 

The Enduring Popularity of Engelbert Humperdinck as he returns to the Hanover Theatre with his "All About Love Tour"

Performance:

September 27, 2023 at 7:30pm 

Presented at the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 

TICKETS:

Tickets are $49, $59, $69 and $89 depending on seat location. Discounts are available for subscribers and groups of 10 or more. 

BUY TICKETS

For More Information:  

877-571-SHOW (7469) info@thehanovertheatre.org

COVID 19 PROTOCOLS

Contact Venue for Most Updated COVID-19 Safety Protocols and Information.

METRMAG Spotlight On: The Enduring Popularity of Engelbert Humperdinck as he returns to the Hanover Theatre with his "All About Love Tour"

After all his many career milestones, honors and acclaim, the entertainer known as ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK could just look back and smile in retrospect of his musical legacy. 

Instead, he chooses to continue to expand upon that legacy, appearing here soon, bringing along some timeless favorites of the past and reaching forward to the future with new material. 

On tour, ENGELBERT makes two stops in Massachusetts next month: A performance at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester on September 27th and then appearing the very next night at Memorial Hall in Plymouth on September 28th.

His schedule is non-stop. His name should actually be "Energizer Bunny Humperdinck" (MBE) because, as the ad states, this entertainer just keeps going and going and going and...

METRMag chatted with ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK to see what it is that drives him and, from the outset, it is clear that much of that drive comes from a single source - that intense bond uniting entertainer to fans. 

In the case of "Enge" that bond is made of concrete.

When arranging for this interview, I was advised by others who had spoken with him that ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK was "an incredibly nice person." 

They were not "overselling." He was thoroughly gracious and made this interview both insightful and pleasant. 

Many already know of his legendary career. Record sales in excess of 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy® nominations, a Golden Globe®, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame and Leicester Walk of Fame.

It was ENGELBERT'S agent, Gordon Mills, who came up with his stage name. But, curiously – "stage names" - not as common these days but, back in the early days of entertainment venues, were usually applied to provide a shortened take on the “marquis persona.” 

“Marion Robert Morrison” (8 syllables) became “John Wayne” (2 syllables) 

“Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr.” (also 8 syllables) became “John Denver” (3 syllables) 

“Robert Allen Zimmerman” (7 syllables) became “Bob Dylan” (also 3 syllables) 

And so on… 

Yet, this esteemed singer went from “Arnold Dorsey” to “Gerry Dorsey” (both 4 syllables) all the way to “ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK” (6 syllables and a whopping 20 letters). 

Plus, he chose the name of a 19th century German composer (who gave us an opera for the tale of "Hansel and Gretel"). 

So, not so much “why” but why does the "Artist Formerly Known as 'Dorsey'" think it worked when, given the examples above, by all rights, it shouldn’t have?  

"Honestly, I always thought big," HUMPERDINCK says. "My dreams were of only being a working entertainer and, when you're a starving musician waiting to be discovered, anything is eligible." 

"My manager came up with the name," he continues. "He managed three entertainers at the time and gave us all our stage names: Gilbert O’Sullivan (Raymond O'Sullivan), 'Tom Jones' (Thomas Woodward) and me. He may have given me the longest name of the three but, at 57 years, it is a name that has only treated me with kindness and greatness."

That "greatness" would come to include a notable career that has seen HUMPERDINCKperforming around the world and for royalty, presidents and world leaders. 

Curiously, the entertainer's children (Bradley, Jason, Scott and Louise) and grandchildren - all go by “Dorsey” and not the stage name. Some of them are even involved in the entertainment business. Yet they all chose the given family name of “Dorsey.” 

So, this begs the question: Why do they not also use “HUMPERDINCK" given its popularity thanks to the entertainer?  The entertainer responds most humbly.

"Our late Queen (Elizabeth) was very wonderful and gave me the title MBE. For the kids, 'Dorsey' is still a very strong name. Dorsey still appears on my passport. My father was Dorsey, and I was and sometimes could still be addressed as Dorsey." 

As the entertainer notes, he was awarded the Honor of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) on Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday Honors Listpresented by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne.

And yet, was there ever a point where, after he had achieved his success, that he might consider, perhaps, losing the pseudonym and returning to "Dorsey?"  

"I never did, not once. I just didn’t think it was a good idea," He says. "Because, once you start a career, it would be like starting over again. when I started as a musician. I began by playing the saxophone and, after I got sick as a child, I stopped playing it and had to learn to start over again, this time using my throat as my instrument."

Using that voice as his golden throated "instrument," ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK has recorded across multiple genres of music. 

His career milestones are not only massive but have global recognition unmatched, as well. 

Yet, with that said, how did he go from a cavalcade of classics such as “A Man Without Love,” “Release Me,” “Spanish Eyes,” “The Last Waltz,” “Quando Quando Quando,” “There Goes My Everything,” “After the Lovin',” “Les Bicyclettes de Belsize,” and “Bésame Mucho” to...“Lesbian Seagull” (from the 1996 film “Beavis and Butt‐Head Do America”)? 

The legendary entertainer laughs as he responds on how the gig come about and how must it have felt for ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK to have a song that was released as a single back-to-back with “Lover Rollercoaster” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers?

"I was at the Greek Theatre in L.A. and the people from the movie came to the show," the singer recalls. "They saw I had  a bit of sense of humor and they approached me about it. I told them to send it to me and, once I heard it, I loved its content and, subsequently, I recorded it. It went platinum. You never can tell. So, I always believe that, when an opportunity comes along, you never turn it down."

ENGELBERT'S hit song “A Man Without Love” was just featured in Marvel’s “Moon Knight” Disney+ Series, with his music & social media charts breaking all records. 

In Sony Pictures’ new Brad Pitt film “Bullet Train” ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK'S song “Forever Blowing Bubbles” is featured as well.

Like the aforementioned Sir Tom Jones, ENGELBERT'S career longevity is unsurpassed, overcoming a negative stereotype commonly associated with "crooners." 

When talking about singers, the word “Crooner” is not used as much these days. 

It has since been replaced with terms such as (but not limited to): "vocalist," “song stylist” or “song interpreter” - to help lose part of that old “Vegas lounge act” stigma. 

In a mid-to-late 60s era where harder edge music, psychedelic acts, a "counter culture" movement and singer-songwriters were emerging, HUMPERDINCK and Jones were firmly entrenched on the side of the "old guard" - seen as descendants of Sinatra, Crosby or Dean Martin.

Both Jones and HUMPERDINCK were stigmatized by what some would perceive as the "crooner" persona but it certainly did not deter either from what would prove to be their illustrious career path choices.

Both Jones and HUMPERDINCK stayed true to themselves and what they did and, as a result, amassed fans who have remained steadfast, fearlessly devoted and continuing to attend and enjoy their concerts. 

The love and affection his fans show for ENGELBERT is both touching and fervent. It comes across as more like a spiritual bond between artist and audience and, at times, it is just a joy to behold. 

Yet, does he have an explanation for the sheer depth of this connection? Does it come from something other than just people seeking entertainment? 

"I go out, I sign autographs, I do many audience selfies - they, these fans, these wonderful people, they all put me where I am today," he says. "And, because I treat them well and they know I am responsive and appreciative, I think that is why I have had such loyal fans."

Once known as "Humperdinckers" the singer recalls how his fans had "many, many names and at one point, I had over 300 fan clubs all over the world." 

"There has always been support and they have always been great to me," he says. "in some places, they used to come and decorate my dressing rooms but, with COVID, that, sadly, went away. Now, these days, I do these 'Tuesday Museday' (VLOGs) with me talking to the fans every Tuesday. I love to read their comments when I have time."

ENGELBERT was blessed with a loving wife of nearly six decades, Patricia. 

Many performers feel a presence of their 'soulmates' when going out on stage. Does ENGELBERT still feel part of Patricia is always present whenever he performs? Is there that one song that most reminds him of her? 

"Oh, yes," he says. "I wrote a song 'Everywhere I Go' 30 years ago and I never thought it would have the meaning that it does for me now. Of course, I still wish she would be everywhere I go, been everywhere I went. I sometimes have trouble finishing the song. More than that - Now I tend to 'read' all my lyrics differently."

While known for a specific performance style, was there ever a point in ENGELBERT'S career where he wanted to try something that was further away from what he had been known for doing?  

"Oh, as a matter of fact, there is a project coming up as we speak and from which I will be stepping far outside my comfort zone - but I cannot talk about it right now. It is a very 'hush-hush' thing at the moment."  

At a spry, youthful 87-years-old, the singer's incredible life's journey and career has afforded him the opportunity to cross paths with other icons in multiple fields, meeting the most famous of entertainment icons from Cary Grant, Elvis Presley to Jayne Mansfield. 

In fact, ENGELBERT would buy Mansfield's home shortly before her tragic death. He would live in the home for over 30 years. He recalls how one of Mansfield's children, actress Mariska Hargitay (of "Law and Order: Special Victims Unit" fame) visited the house.

"Well, Mariska was about 14 or so and friends with my daughter," as the singer remembers. "She came over the house one time and asked me to show her around the place, which I did. I gave her a tour. She was such a delightful girl."

Was there that one person, though, among all of the cultural icons and historic figures for whom ENGELBERT was left awestruck?

"I have been blessed to meet some wonderful, important people, including royalty," he says. "There was meeting the Queen (Elizabeth). Our paths crossed. She was great with me. I have been to the Palace many times." 

"But, at the beginning, there was Cary Grant.," he recalls quite fondly. "As a matter of fact, it was Cary who was responsible for my getting my first television show. He used to come around on set with his daughter whenever he could."

These days, when ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK, MBE is not on stage, what does his alter ego, "Mr. Dorsey," like doing in his spare time? Any hobbies that might surprise even the most ardent of fans?   

"I am a golfer, I love playing – I don’t ride my Harley anymore because the roads are so dangerous," he says. "The other thing I do is my crosswords, I write poetry – one of my favorite past times. I am also an avid TV fan. I find that television can present you with some bright new ideas, and I am always looking for new ideas." 

With children and grandchildren spread out across the globe – does he get to spend as much time with them as he would like these days? 

"Well, I do with the ones that are close by – my daughter is in Nashville," He says. "The ones in Australia I don’t get to see as much - but, I'll be doing a world tour next year and look forward to getting to visit them at some point." 

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK has performed in Worcester at the Hanover Theatre before. He speaks of his looking forward to playing there again.

"I certainly am but, this time, it is going to be a little bit different. I've got some new material. I hope they like it." 

Whatever the revered and distinguished entertainer brings, rest assured there will be plenty of great songs to enjoy for both "Humperdinckers" and NON-"Humperdinckers" alike.

Tickets for Worcester's Hanover Theatre: # 877-571-SHOW (7469) or email: info@thehanovertheatre.org 

Tickets for Memorial Hall in Plymouth: # 800-657-8774 or visit www.memorialhall.com 

Kevin T. Baldwin is a member of the American Theatre Critics Association (ATCA)

@MetrmagReviews

@Theatre_Critics 

ABOUT THE SHOW

In a career spanning over 50 years, ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK has generated sales in excess of 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy® nominations, a Golden Globe®, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame and Leicester Walk of Fame.

He has performed for the Queen four times, several presidents and many heads of state. 

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK has recorded everything from the most romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and even gospel. 

His unique voice has charmed millions of fans around the globe. 

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK exploded on to the music scene with The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. 

The shy, handsome man catapulted almost instantly to world icon. 

ENGELBERT 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 went number one in 11 countries. 

The following decades saw ENGELBERT constantly touring the world to sell-out crowds. 

He still takes great pleasure in every moment on stage.

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK'S 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'S hit song “A Man Without Love” was just featured in Marvel’s “Moon Knight” Disney+ Series, with his music & social media charts breaking all records. 

In Sony Pictures’ new Brad Pitt film “Bullet Train” ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK'S song “Forever Blowing Bubbles” is featured as well.

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK was just awarded the Honor of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) on Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday Honors Listpresented by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne.

https://www.metrmag.com/featured-stories/metrmag-spotlight-on-the-enduring-popularity-of-engelbert-humperdinck-as-he-returns-to-the-hanover-theatre-with-his-all-about-love-tour-worcester-ma?fbclid=IwAR04KNBd2E3_gUXuK85gcms-tfq7d53HIpftG59V4tFXYBkXcaiUfoFExtg

 

 

Episode 187 with Engelbert Humperdinck

BUDDY IAHN  JULY 28, 2023

Singer recently released All About Love album
Instead of receiving gifts in celebration of his 87th birthday in May, iconic singer Engelbert Humperdinck gifted fans his new album, All About Love via OK! Good Records. A collection of eye-opening reinterpretations of classic love songs, reworkings of some of his own classics, and duets with two of the most-celebrated Mexican singers vocalists today (“Mexico’s Sweetheart” Angelica Maria and Grammy-nominated Mariachi star Lupita Infante), his new 13 track collection is more proof that Engelbert just gets better with age.

The four-time Grammy-nominated and multi-Platinum selling legend tackles some of the most beloved romantic tracks and puts a unique spin on them, including the No. 1 R&B hit “If You Don’t Know Me By Now” which was originally released by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes in 1972 (also covered by Simply Red in 1989) and the Philly soul classic “When Will I See You Again” (originally released in 1974 by The Three Degrees). Among other tracks are The Bee Gees’ first US No. 1 (and one of the greatest love songs of the era) “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart,” Lou Rawls’ perennial classic “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine,” and Mel & Tim’s “Starting All Over Again.” Released last fall, his country-western tinged rendition of Barry White’s 1974 Gold-selling chart topper “You’re The First, The Last, My Everything” has amassed over 2.7 million views on YouTube and inspired a line-dance from its celebratory music video, which was filmed at Los Angeles’ authentic Honky-Tonk club, Cowboy Palace Saloon.

All About Love was recorded at famous Blackbird Studios with some of Nashville’s finest musicians, including Dave Cohen (Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Florida Georgia Line) on keyboards, Rob McNelley (Buddy Guy, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban) on guitars, Lex Price (Shemekia Copeland, Neko Case, Indigo Girls) on bass, Jerry Roe (LeeAnn Womack, Luke Combs, Keith Urban) on drums, Fred Eltringham (Sheryl Crow, Lucinda Williams, Willie Nelson) on drums, and even legend Charlie McCoy (Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan).

Thanks to massive awareness from creative placement of his classic hits in current and vastly popular mainstream TV shows and films, Engelbert’s popularity has exploded exponentially in recent years. The aforementioned “A Man Without Love” was featured on the Marvel Universe series Moon Knight and “Quando, Quando, Quando” found itself on Netflix’s Umbrella Academy. His newly recorded version of West Ham United’s football anthem “Forever Blowing Bubbles” was featured prominently in Brad Pitt’s No. 1 runaway hit movie Bullet Train.

The legendary singer is also on tour, with stops throughout the US, Europe, South American and Asia.

Humperdinck recently chatted with us to discuss the album, touring, his career and more.

https://themusicuniverse.com/episode-187-with-engelbert-humperdinck/