NEW YORK (AP) — Andrea Bocelli possesses one of the most instantly recognizable voices in the world, a tenor that transcends generations, cultures, and borders. His emotional renditions have the power to move listeners deeply, often evoking tears with just a few words from his iconic song “Con Te Partirò,” or its English version, “Time to Say Goodbye.”
This year marks a significant milestone for Bocelli as he celebrates 30 years in the music industry. To commemorate this anniversary, he has released a new compilation album titled “Duets,” which showcases both previously released tracks and new collaborations featuring his most beloved works. Additionally, he is debuting a new concert film, “Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration,” which is set to hit theaters on Friday.
The Essence of Duets
When asked why he chose to focus on duets for this album, Bocelli shared, “I’ve loved voices since I was a child, and I like very much to share the stage with the best artists and voices. So, this album features the best duets I’ve performed throughout my life.” He highlighted some of his most memorable collaborations, from “The Prayer” with Celine Dion to the more recent “Perfect” with Ed Sheeran. “The album has been remastered and remixed, so I hope the sound can be even better,” he added.
For Bocelli, the essence of a great voice lies in its ability to evoke emotions. He believes that the most important quality of a singer is being recognizable and capable of connecting with the audience on a profound level.
Collaborating with Ed Sheeran
Bocelli’s collaboration with Ed Sheeran on “Perfect” serves as a noteworthy example of how artistic partnerships can evolve. Initially, when Bocelli first attempted to interpret the song, Sheeran was not entirely satisfied. “He didn’t like what I did because I sang in a pop style,” Bocelli explained. “He wanted to hear my voice in an operatic style.” To address this, Sheeran traveled to Bocelli’s home in Tuscany, where they reworked the song together. “He was right because this song had huge success,” Bocelli remarked, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving artistic excellence.
A Tribute to Great Voices
Reflecting on the past, Bocelli expressed a sense of longing for opportunities lost to time. When asked if there were any artists he wished could have been included in his “Duets” collection, he lamented, “Of course, there are many, but they passed away before I began to sing. For example, I would have loved to sing with Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, or Magda Olivero. Many incredible singers are no longer with us, unfortunately.” This acknowledgment of the greats who came before him highlights Bocelli’s deep respect for the art of singing and its rich history.
Looking to the Future
As Bocelli reflects on his past, he is also focused on the future. With a career that has spanned three decades, he continues to embrace new challenges and explore different musical avenues. His ability to adapt and evolve has kept him at the forefront of the music industry, and his latest projects are a testament to his enduring passion for music.
In a world that is constantly changing, Bocelli’s voice remains a powerful constant. His dedication to his craft and his desire to connect with audiences worldwide resonate through every note he sings. As he celebrates this milestone anniversary, he looks forward with excitement, ready to embrace whatever the future holds in his musical journey.
In an industry filled with fleeting trends, Andrea Bocelli stands as a beacon of timeless artistry. His commitment to sharing beautiful music with the world, whether through duets or solo performances, ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As he says, “I like to think to the future,” and with that mindset, the possibilities are endless for this beloved tenor.
