Though live music performances are always stirring, when the right set of circumstances happen some of them become particularly special. The clip below is one of those special performances.
The performer below is Andrea Bocelli, an Italian singer-songwriter who went blind at age 12. While not everyone in the United States may be aware for his career, he has recorded 15 solo albums and nine complete opera albums, among other work. The show took place in 2006 at Lake Las Vegas Resort and seems to have been improvised.
Before the show starts, the announcer asks Bocelli if he has any special songs for the occasion, deviating from the concert’s plan somewhat. After a moment, he says he does. He moves over to the piano and gives the pianist some quick instructions to play some arpeggios in the key of F. There’s a moment of anticipation before Bocelli’s voice comes in: “Wise men say…”
It only takes the crowd a moment for the crowd to recognize the tune. The song in question is Can’t Help Falling in Love as made famous by Elvis Presley, no doubt chosen by Bocelli for Presley’s own long-standing connections with the city of Las Vegas. Though the Elvis version is definitely iconic, Bocelli has no problem turning it into a creation all his own. His voice is deep, robust and about as smooth as silk—but even more amazing is how the couples in the audience react to the romantic song.
While there’s always something special about seeing music performed live, there’s a special thrill that comes out of watching musicians do their own interpretations of great songs. Though Elvis’s version has already stood the test of time, it’s marked by the unique twang and timbre of his voice. Bocelli’s version is respectful of the original while adding his own deep, pure tone to it. Without spoiling too much, the way Bocelli ends the song makes the whole thing all the more impressive.
For those who weren’t fans before, we’re hoping this performance will change your mind. Be sure to check out the rest of Bocelli’s YouTube channel for more live performances!
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