Praise be! Simon hails ‘beautiful’ voice of priest, 64
A PRIEST of 64 was a shock BGT success with a stunning performance of REM classic Everybody Hurts.
Fr Ray Kelly’s audition led head judge Simon Cowell to scream in delight and lead a standing ovation. Cowell said: “I wasn’t sure what to expect but this is one of my favourite ever auditions. “Your voice is beautiful, this was everything we have been waiting for.” Amanda Holden added: “It was brilliant and the whole congregation was behind you.” Ray, of Oldcastle, Co Meath in the Irish Republic said: “The song’s near to my heart because being a priest you get in touch with a lot of pain and happiness so I can relate.”
In 2014 he sang at a wedding in his parish and a video of it had 36 million views. A Universal record deal followed but he failed to capitalise on his fame.