Michael Bublé is one of those artists that I really like as a person. I think he would be fun to have over for dinner, he seems to have a great sense of humor and to be an all around great guy. I truly respect his talent and I think that he is one of those rare artists that sings the classics beautifully, but also transitions into today's pop music when the occasion arises.
With all of that said, I personally don't listen to the old standards. I think they remind me too much of my "parent's music" and the days of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. When I was asked to listen and review Michael's new album, "To Be Loved", I accepted the offer because I was curious.
Known as a Canadian Crooner, Bublé wants to "take you on a wonderful journey about love—all different kinds of love," with this album. He says it "rocks, it’s soulful, it’s happy, sometimes a little sad. It’s romantic, it’s yummy, and it’s heartfelt." The album covers songs by Frank Sinatra, the Bee Gees, Jackson 5, Elvis Presley, Van Morrison, and more. In the mix of golden standards are four original songs co-written by Bublé, dipping into his personal life for inspiration.
As I listened to the album, I found an interesting pattern in my response to the music. The standards are done beautifully, it goes without saying that Michael's voice is as smooth as silk. So, if you are a fan of the older songs...you will love this album. The surprise for me was that the songs that made me stop and listen that I really enjoyed the most, were each one co-written by Bublé and each was beautiful. My favorite song on the album is "Close Your Eyes" which was written for his wife and the other women in his life. It is beautiful and so obviously sung from his heart. "After All" is sung with Bryan Adams and is another of my favorites. There is no doubt this man has a long career in his future as both a performer and I hope as a song writer...he excels at both!
"To Be Loved" is available now on iTunes and Amazon. You can watch Michael sing "To Love Somebody" by clicking here.
To Be Loved Track Listing:
1. "You Make Me Feel So Young"
2. "It's a Beautiful Day"
3. "To Love Somebody"
4. "Who's Lovin You"
5. "Something Stupid" (featuring Reese Witherspoon)
6. "Come Dance with Me"
7. "Close Your Eyes"
8. "After All" (featuring Bryan Adams)
9. "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" (with Naturally 7)
10. "To Be Loved"
11. "You've Got a Friend in Me"
12. "Nevertheless (I'm in Love with You)" (featuring The Puppini Sisters)
13. "I Got It Easy"
14. "Young at Heart"
