ANDREA’S STILL GOING STRONG
Italian singing legend Andrea Bocelli was blind from the age of 12, but that didn’t stop him from chasing his musical dreams. He’s gone on to win numerous awards, record 16 albums, and sing with the likes of Celine Dion and Ariana Grande. We caught up with the star to celebrate the release of his latest album, Sì.
You recently performed at Princess Eugenie’ s wedding. How was it?
I have been friends with Eugenie’s mother Sarah Ferguson for some time and we have collaborated on many philanthropic ventures. It was therefore natural for my wife Veronica and I, together with my sons, to be at her daughter’s wedding. And singing for this couple, promising to love one another in front of the world and in front of God, was a pleasure and an honour, just as it was to share such a special day.
Your new album features a du et with Ed Sheer an. What was it like working with him?
Ed confirmed my belief that, amongst the newer generation, there are extraordinary talents. He is one of them. He is a true artist, both sensitive and competent. It all came about because of a phone call – he asked me to sing his new edition of “Perfect”. My older sons are both fans of his and because of their encouragement, I accepted. A friendship was born, a positive relationship for both of us that I am happy to say is ongoing.
There’ s also a du et with your son. Have you always loved singing together?
This is a fairly recent venture. Apparently Matteo was embarrassed to sing in front of me, so he used to duet with recordings without me knowing. Luckily, he then made up his mind and asked me to listen to him. I frankly think he is gifted. It was a greatly emotional experience for both of us, recording a song together. Matteo contributed to the lyrics and the resulting song is about a son who is growing up, on the verge of adulthood, and a father who supports him and reassures him.
What would your younger self think of where you are now?
He probably would not believe it. I have never abandoned the dream of living and sustaining my family through my musical profession. After a number of attempts, I was virtually certain that I would need to make a living as a lawyer. Each day, I am profoundly grateful.