257 responses so far ↓

• Me // Jun 11, 2007 at 5:57 pm

  An evident enthusiasm can’t replace raw vocal talent - this man hasn’t got it. He would need to study for at least 5 years before he could even consider singing on a professional stage and that would be 5 years with no guarantee of anything at the end of it. Let him enjoy it as a hobby and not ruin a life chasing windmills.

• Tammy // Jun 12, 2007 at 6:09 pm

  “ME” Have you totally lost your ignorant mind? Did you see him sing? He is without a doubt nothing shy of perfection! He made me want to cry it was so beautiful! If there is a fan club for Paul, I want to be first in it! I would buy anything he sang, and I don’t even listen to opera, but he makes me want to!!!

• Moved // Jun 12, 2007 at 8:44 pm

  It’s apperant you do not dream nor know how to chase one.

• Canuck // Jun 12, 2007 at 9:48 pm

  Paul Potts is the voice that is making me set up and take notice of opera. this guys voice is like no sound I have ever heard before, in a word beautiful

• San Nakji // Jun 12, 2007 at 10:55 pm

  He has more talent than most of those ‘pop idols’ out there. If he wants to go for it, then I say go!

• Dana // Jun 13, 2007 at 1:09 am

  Paul looks as if he’s on the verge of tears; his talent is amazing, and his modesty makes him even more so. Rarely do you see someone so good yet so modest. Paul DEFINITELY doesn’t need 5 years of training before he can consider going on professional stage; I’m positive he’s already got a pretty strong fan base that won’t wait 5 years for him to sing. His first major public singing, in front of a group that I’m pretty sure are mostly into pop music and whatnot, and he gets a standing ovation. I’m pretty sure, or at least I hope, that I’ll see much more of Paul.

• john k // Jun 13, 2007 at 1:50 am

  I have never been an opera fan but i download every version of this song i could find so that i could listen to such a beautiful song but they all sucked.
  Paul adds the vary real human element that had been missing from the rest. “Relatabilty” hes a real guy
  and love it made me cry..I want to send him Money
  spectacular performance one of the best i have ever seen.
  If it was perfect the point would not get across to the audience if your voice dosent cracle abit
  i wount belvie the pasion and that was a million dollor performance.

• Fletchman // Jun 13, 2007 at 1:53 am

  What’s special about this is that no matter what happens, no matter what the outcome is, no matter if he wins the entire thing or if he continues on selling cell phones…

  His dream has been realized.

  I don’t know if what we saw on TV is how it really happened (they might have made him sing it again so they could get more panning shots), but the fact that he sang his heart out on a stage and was cheered with a standing ovation as he stood up there… I think his dream has come true.

  And not so many people can say that.

• Myohmy // Jun 13, 2007 at 2:32 am

  It is evident that “me” can’t tell quality from a hole in the ground. FYI Paul has had professional training, has toured in Italy, taken Masterclass lessons with Pavoratti, and sung for the Phil Harmonic. This doesn’t make him professional in the manner that would keep one out of this competition but he has had ‘training’. LOL .

• re ME // Jun 13, 2007 at 3:30 am

  Maybe to the opera snob. I have seen so many comments online that say they dont like opera but would go to see him. His 5 years of training will be done in front of a huge audience.

• Tactical // Jun 13, 2007 at 4:32 am

  Critics are a dime a dozen…and worth about as much.

  From this one short video, I’d pay money today to see Paul sing live.

  All the best Paul.

• Henry K. // Jun 13, 2007 at 8:22 am

  Guys, you also have to take into consideration that this is a video. What you see with your eyes are emotions and image’s of other feelings toward Paul’s performance. Especially for Amanda (the judge in the middle), she looked like she was about to cry which boosted up the whole “I felt like crying” emotion. If you were to just plainly listen to Opera on your Ipod/MP3 player or on your computer, it’ll totally be a different story. As for Paul, he does have a very good vocal talent but I wouldn’t say its close to a professional male opera performer.

• Paul Potts New Celebrity Opera Star // Jun 13, 2007 at 9:25 am

  […] I mentioned Paul Potts on Monday I was really not too sure what the VIP Glamour audience would make of Paul Potts. I knew […]

• Steve // Jun 13, 2007 at 1:17 pm

  The guy is a pro. We have been duped.
  http://www.bathopera.co.uk/Past%20Productions/Aida/aida_biographies.htm

• ginger // Jun 13, 2007 at 2:44 pm

  Having watched this show several times now, I’d say quite a number of the performers could be called “professionals” - but the point of the show I thought was to give a SHOWCASE to talent that might have otherwise not been “discovered” by a wider audience. Paul Potts I understand “studied” with Pavarotti - so for sure he at least was trying to sing OPERA as a professional for sometime - but the point is it took “Britain’s Got Talent” to give him his big break

• chiomann // Jun 13, 2007 at 4:47 pm

  ME- you have to STFU, everyone clearly know he got the talent. He works at a car cell phone shop and he still can sing Nessun Dorma like that. Of course he have to practice and study.But he got the ‘talent’.

• whatnoname // Jun 13, 2007 at 4:49 pm

  Steve - have you heard of amateur opera companies that all members including ones doing leading roles have to pay a membership fee. He is not therefore a proffessional. Just because he had one lesson with a master who is known for singing not for teaching also does not make him a proffessional. he is a mobile phone salesman: how do I know? I bought my nokia from him!!!

• Deborah // Jun 13, 2007 at 6:28 pm

  Paul Potts has a fantastic voice, loads of talent and he deserves to do well in this competition, all i can say to those who mock and make uncalled for comments is “GROW UP” Take a good long look at someone whos got genuine talent and back him!!!

• Dave // Jun 13, 2007 at 8:14 pm

  Well “ME”, I guess this world must reflect your nickname, all about ME! You are either blind, tonedeaf or both. A man that can sing from his soul with such depth and amazing purity is to behold. I really feel sorry for you as you must lead a sheltered, myopic and lonely life. Thank goodness there are few of YOU in the world. Amazing singing Mr. Potts and for making the world a better place….”ME” please go and hide so we may enjoy the goodness around us.

• Peter // Jun 13, 2007 at 11:05 pm

  No one gets a standing ovation unless it is deserved & deserved it was.

• L // Jun 14, 2007 at 2:44 am

  I can’t really find the words to express what I feel now, after watching his performance. “Amazing” is one word. I for one, am not especially in to opera. But I know good music when I hear it, and this is good. Being bitter and thinking you know what opera relly should sound like doesn’t make sense to the heart. Thanks to Paul my musical views are now broadened.

• Liking the singing // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:14 am

  “Steve” If the man truly works as a mobile phone salesman then nobody has been duped. A pro only does their selected profession and is solely supported by it. Traing and performances does not make some one a professional.

• gahrie // Jun 14, 2007 at 4:55 am

  This has already been touched on, but…

  Pavoratti and the other tenors may be technically more proficient, but Potts brings something extra to his singing. An opera fan may sit there and catalog his deficencies, and prefer one of the “greats”, but to the average person who rarely if ever listens to opera, Potts is a rare treat. I can’t appreciate Pavoratti’s techinical perfection. I don’t know enough about opera, or have a trained ear. To me, Pavoratti lacks emotion, a feeling for the music. He does what he does extremely well, but it leaves me flat. Potts emotes the music…..he evokes as he sings. If he is not techinically perfect, I can’t tell the difference.

  Given the choice to pay to hear Pavoratti or Potts, I’ll go for Potts everytime. The opera buffs will go for Pavoratti, and thus we will both be satisfied.

• Ronnie // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:03 am

  I think Mr. Potts did a wonderful job, I would love to see him perform.

• go paul!! // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:26 am

  el tipo sin duda alguna le mete a la opera,a mi no me gusta para nada pero por poco lloro como un idiota en mi trabajo,asi que le deseo la mejor de la suerte a paul y que tire un cd que yo se lo compro

• Mark // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:40 am

  Wow, that was amazing. I would love to see him win.

• kudos // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:56 am

  Funny, he ALMOST shares the same name as the leader of the Khmer Rouge (Pol Pot).

  Nevertheless he’s A-mazing. notice how amanda said little pump of coal into a diamond, frog into a prince? i thought that was a bit off, essentially calling him a lump and a frog. but that’s just me, i’m sensitive to these things

• Oskar Michalski // Jun 14, 2007 at 6:25 am

  @ME

  You are that kind of people who never followed their dream or just couldn’t because of lack of talent.

  You will not be happy in your heart when you try to take things away from people.

  Your words are the poison in our peoples veins like the worms that eat the tree from inside
  You get what you give in life.

  In these 5 years you described someone can only improve technical abillities, no more no less.

  The best musicians and singers are good because they sing out of their heart and have many little imperfections.

  So next time post your real name and say something that makes other people smile and you will be remembered.

• Maja // Jun 14, 2007 at 6:27 am

  I can’t believe it! He is so amazing!!

• Homer // Jun 14, 2007 at 6:28 am

  Brilliant, just brilliant, he reduced me to tears. So much tallent. He is amazing, hope to see more of him, and I don’t like opera. There were simillar people in Australia and I watched the programme simillar to British Operatunity with a pleasure. I like to see him in live audiance. Well done.

• Nic // Jun 14, 2007 at 7:39 am

  I think the fact that “Me” uses the name “Me” is proof enough that there´s a lot of egoism and jealousy behind his/her (I´d guess his) comment. Paul Potts, you´re awesome!

• Rob Peabody // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:24 am

  I am not sure why he was singing like that. His eye looked like it was going to pop out.

• Purdy // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:47 am

  I thought Paul’s performance quite wonderful! Perhaps he does need a little more gloss which the world’s best teachers can give him, but in the meantime, he was a joy and delight to watch and listen to. All power to this gifted young man. I was also delighted to see the judges, for once, bowled over.

• Australian Ron // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:43 am

  I believe Marianne Williamson summed up the opportunity Paul has taken (and additionally quoted by Nelson Mandella in his inauguration address):

  “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

  If only we all realised not only our true potential but the potential of others. Comments from people like “Me” serve only to justify hiding of their light and to hinder those less confident from letting their light shine.

  Well done Paul, I look forward to seeing and hearing from you soon. You inspire me!

• Peter Gregory // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:54 am

  It was absolutely great to see so many psoitive comments regarding the voice abd personal humility of Paul Potts. I would suppose most of the posts came from what I would call the younger generation. I’m not an opera buff (prefer 60s & 70s) but that bloke had a bloody magnificent voice and it’s good to see it appreciated. ME - if you every come to Australia look me up and I’ll fix your tone deafness.
  Vietnam Vet and bloody proud of it.

• Peter Gregory // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:56 am

  Just a short follow up to my previous - Check out the look on Piers face when he heard Paul was going to sing opera. Bloody rude and I’m glad he was shown up to be the prick he was.

• Rhio // Jun 14, 2007 at 12:18 pm

  What a performance! Mores the point…what courage! Kind of an amazing clash between the “classic” and the contemporary - a most enjoyable experience Listening to Paul preform - and frankly, who cares if he’s short, tubby and wears a bad suit - Paverotti is no model for 20th Century starvation! One question though…anyone have any idea why listening to opera make people cry? (I’m no exception)

• Sam // Jun 14, 2007 at 12:25 pm

  Rob Peabody, you are an idiot! The guy goes out on stage and sings with all his heart and all you can say is “I am not sure why he was singing like that. His eye looked like it was going to pop out.” I wish Paul all the success in the world. He has brought Opera to people that normaly wouldnt even consider listening to it.

• tom // Jun 14, 2007 at 12:45 pm

  A HOBBY???? if your totally brilliant at sport do you do it as a hobby or do you strive to achieve and do it professionally? he is very good. he is obviously a very modest man, give him a brake and let him sing.

• KEEF // Jun 14, 2007 at 12:56 pm

  ME ME ME, my you’ve upset a few people, do you feel unwanted and insignificant, you should.

  I first saw the video and heard Paul sing today on our morning news show here in Western Australia, now tell me that if they thouht it was anything short of outstanding that it would have been played over here in OZ.

  Consider your self severely reprimanded and hide your head in shame.

  Paul fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

• Mike // Jun 14, 2007 at 1:41 pm

  Sorry, but Paul Potts will never have an opera singing career.

  Yes, he has the passion and the emotion. No one would deny that.

  But it takes a lot - A LOT - more to make a singer who can sing for hours, unamplified, over a full orchestra. He simply doesn’t have the instrument.

  Grab your diary, open it to June 14, 2012, and write “Where is Paul Potts?” Hopefully he’ll be well, and happy, and still enjoying singing - but he won’t be starring in any reputable opera house.

  Sorry.

• Wood4me // Jun 14, 2007 at 1:54 pm

  Must have played this half a dozen times. Then compared it to the “pros”. I cannot say if Paul has talent. All I can say is that I was enthralled by his performance. I even ran the video for my wife, (who finds it difficult to absorb opera). She stood and watched while I re-played it several times. Absorbed.

  Soul piercing song. Goosebump raising. Absolutely delightful. Chase your dream Paul. Never give it up. Mario Lanza would be proud of you.

  When a goal is scored in English football, barely half the crowd stand up. This man had the whole audience at their feet, the male judges flabergasted, and the female judge teary eyed.

  To the naysayers I say - Your life will be the poorer for wishing to deprive this person of his joy.

• Skommin // Jun 14, 2007 at 2:16 pm

  I get the feeling that ME is the author of the article fishing for some emotional responces and it looks like he got some. That said Paul is obviously a talented singer who shows great emotion and will undoubtedly be even better in 5 years time.

• admin // Jun 14, 2007 at 2:30 pm

  I find it amazing that so many of us experience the same emotions / feelings when listening to Paul’s voice - and especially so when so many of us are not Opera Buffs. I can relate to playing it over and over, I have done this several times a day since Monday and still I am not tired of it.

  When Paul releases his first album, it will be the first ever Opera Album I will buy.

  Skommin — I can sort of see why you might think that ME was ADMIN, but I sincerely promise you, that is not the case. We have a clear policy at VIP Glamour of publishing all VIEWS and to be frank, such is my ignorance of Opera that I thought when I first read ME’s comments that perhaps I was going to look even more of a fool than I usually do

• Karen // Jun 14, 2007 at 2:53 pm

  Wow ! Move over Andrea Bocelli. Here comes Paul Potts

• Karen // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:00 pm

  Comment to mike on how Paul will never make it. I think you need to mark your Diary Jan 14, 2007. Paul Potts-along with Andrea Bocelli will be peforming with the London Symphony Orchestra.. Mike people need to think more postive about other people. He has a dream. He went for it. Now he has fans, and I am one of them. I will be waiting for his CD to come out.

• LucasMoon // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:17 pm

  Forget the person that is call ME. Cause he is getting exactly what he wants. ATTENTION.

  Let get back to Paul Potts here, he is the star and he is the one that has impress us all. I am not an expert in opera but I can tell you this, if he would make a concert at my hometown I would buy the most expensive ticket just so I can be near him and feel his voice threw my body. This man is indeed a new prodigy. Everyone has started someone even the old ones. I am sure they must have been totally impress to hear him and I am sure that we will Paul Potts the incoming years to come.
  I hope someone will make a fan page of Paul Potts. That would mostly boost his chance to win and also to be known to the world on who is Paul Potts.
  Good Luck Paul Potts.
  I have a feeling that Simon has something for your future.
  Keep in mind the II Divo was created by pop impresario Simon Cowell.

• november rain // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:35 pm

  paul dotts is amazing…i really hope he would win…
  he is absolutely amazing..amazing and amazing…
  im sure he will win..and there is something about him made everybody loves him,i was actually touched by him…
  he is amazing..and he is doing what he believe and what he dream!!absolutely love him!

• Mike // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:37 pm

  Karen, positive is fine. But realism is also good.

  Glad you mentioned Bocelli because Potts will probably join him - as a sentimental favourite, someone who people who never listen to opera think is a good singer.

  When last did Bocelli sing without a microphone? I think that would be his one listed appearance playing a secondary role in Macbeth.

  We’re not talking “classical style” singers. We’re talking opera singers. Neither of them is one.

• Mike // Jun 14, 2007 at 3:47 pm

  THIS is how opera singers sing:

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVx3P2yxVNM

• cavalaxis // Jun 14, 2007 at 4:39 pm

  Mike~ How do you know this? How can you tell this from a four minute video clip?

  This kind of elitist crap is why opera and classical is a dying art form, restricted to the 1% of the population that can afford to view live performances, and who have had the education to appreciate sitting through three hours of opera in a foreign language.

  If Paul Potts, in less than two minutes, can bring people who DON’T LIKE OPERA to their feet, weeping and shouting their praise, don’t you think that’s a good thing? Don’t you think he has a talent that can breathe new life into a dying art?

  Marathon runner or sprinter, it doesn’t matter. He’s talented, and if he made one person take another look at opera as a contemporary art form, then he’s all right in my book.

• admin // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:08 pm

  Cool for such a plain looking guy to sing like that. Gotta love modest folks who are great. Perhaps this is his biggest selling point.

• sean // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:19 pm

  My money is on him to win the competition…What I like with him, apart from the obvious beautiful voice and his talent, is how humble he is. The cocky ones are usually the one who got little or no talent. The one with the real talent dont feel they have anything to prove to anyone and are humble…i love that! To see Simon Cowell first looking at him as if he was a piece of shit and next minute sit up like he’s seen the light, was a moment to remember. Paul gave me shivers like, im sure, a lot of people who witnessed this impressive and enjoyable performance! PAUL TO WIN!!

• admin // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:28 pm

  Quick additional note —

  There are certainly better singers in England now. But this guy stole the show by combining his regular-bloke looks with good singing, and came up with a fantastic performance, with the audience obviously moved. No, he’s no Pavarotti, but he kicked ass on global TV just by standing and singing. He da man! If Bocelli were a little less better looking maybe he could be on the show, too…

• el // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:33 pm

  Me .. this message is for you
  TAKE THE WAX OUT OF YOUR EARS

• Gabriela // Jun 14, 2007 at 5:42 pm

  Wow I just got YouTube he is incredible … If I could give him a job as a opra singer I would now…

• NOtricious // Jun 14, 2007 at 6:57 pm

  Yo peepz who complain.

  are you done??

  you act like you know how things work.
  Like you are opera singers with a pro label in your pocket.

  well are you ???
  i don’t think so.
  are you jealous???

  your kind is hated in this world you don’t want other people to be happy or get a chance you prob. never get

• Marta // Jun 14, 2007 at 7:17 pm

  hi!
  I can not stop to watch the video. INCREDIBLE!
  I think that he MUST win, I want to watch the video, again..again…!!

  Bye!!

• Gilles Renaud // Jun 14, 2007 at 7:18 pm

  I’m from Montréal, Canada. I saw on the news the performance from Paul Potts. Just amazing. Tell me how such a singer can sell cell. phone instead of showing is great gift is has with is voice. I just wish I can follow this show from my place. Maby, he will not be the winner of this year competition but one thing for sure he will sing for leaving instead of celling telephone very soon. Gilles from Canada

• Scott // Jun 14, 2007 at 7:36 pm

  So what is happening with Paul now. All I can find is his U- tube performance. I think Paul is amazing and look forwward to hearing more from him. This guy has to make it. Who cares what his background is in terms of having lessons or where he sings now. All that matters is that he made us feel something.

• Allan Jenkins // Jun 14, 2007 at 7:46 pm

  The one who said he need at least 5 years training is retarded. I’m a professionnal classical guitar player and I can tell you that Pau Pott is already a pro, here’s his resume :

  Paul Potts Radames

  A student of Ian Comboy, Paul has appeared on national and local television and radio. He has spent two summers touring Northern Italy training with one of the major opera schools, and has taken part in masterclasses with Vilma Vernocchi, Katia Ricciarelli and Luciano Pavarotti. He has also performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. With Bath Opera he has sung the roles of Don Basilio (Marriage of Figaro), Don Ottavio (Don Giovanni) and the title role in Verdi’s Don Carlos. Future plans include the role of Chevalier des Grieux (Manon Lescaut) for Southgate Opera, London, and another concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in the summer. Oh yes!

• James // Jun 14, 2007 at 8:09 pm

  He does seem to have natural talent, but he lacks the control and finesse that come from disciplined training. I think he should pursue a singing career, but he should start with a good voice coach. He’s younger than Bocelli was when he gave up pop music and got serious.

• PimPen // Jun 14, 2007 at 8:41 pm

  Dear Me,

  HAHA…what are you talking about. Read what Pavoratti said about Yu Qiang Dai. Then listen to both of their Nessun Dorma. There is not much difference between them and Pavoratti said he could be the BEST tenor in the world. Paul is definetly God Given Talent in a modern day Frog turned Prince. Did you see the old Italian Ladies Balling in the crowd.

• PimPen // Jun 14, 2007 at 8:45 pm

  Oh yeah, by the way MIKE, neither Paul nor Yu Qiang are Italian, therefore the Domingo Opera singer is not a better tenor, just a better pronunciater of Italian Language.

• AC // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:23 pm

  Mike, I think you’re missing the whole point here. It’s absolutely unfair to compare Paul with Luciano. There will never be another Luciano Pavarotti. Like most everyone here, it’s not just Paul’s talent that captivates me but he himself as person - his humility, his passion to follow his dream. How many mobile phone salesmen or anyone in similar profession/background do you think can sing as good as him? or would even attempt to sing like he does? We all have talents of varying degrees, it’s what we do we to develop and share those talents that matter most than the talents themselves. Lastly, unless you have the ability see the future, I don’t think you can discount a career in singing for him yet. Note, he didn’t say he wanted a career in opera singing. What he said was a career in singing.

• Kevin // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:23 pm

  “Grab your diary, open it to June 14, 2012, and write “Where is Paul Potts?””

  Here’s the joke: if he accomplishes nothing more, he might easily turn out to be one of the three opera singer most people can recognize (even if, in the haze of time, their recollection starts out with, “Oh yeah, wasn’t he that guy from the talent show”). Most people couldn’t name all of the three tenors.

  The second joke is that you seem to begrudge him this status. Why? People become famous for all sorts of reasons. Potts at least paid his dues.

• Leo // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:34 pm

  Watching this makes me proud to be a human and happy to be alive!!

  Go Paul, All the Best!!!!

• Alex // Jun 14, 2007 at 9:40 pm

  I am under great impression. I weeped. From poland Alex

• Viking // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:28 pm

  OK, so I’m an opera buff, and I know Turandot very well as it was the first opera I fell in love with as a young boy. Paul is not (yet) Caruso or Gigli, but I’d rather listen to his version of Nessun Dorma than the overrated Pavarotti’s. Paul still has work to do before he can be called a master tenor, bot O’boy can he sing? I’m not an anglophile Norwegian, but for this guy I would sell all my Grieg records to here more from in the future.

• Darren // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:32 pm

  What was the name of the song he sang tonight?

• Gemma // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:36 pm

  I am so excited! Paul just got through to the final and i am extatic. He clearly lacks self confidence, but thanks to this show he’s going to become a star and tonight has proven that he is backed by the British public. Both times he has perfomed i have cried. I can’t wait to see him develop.

  Paul you’re going to be a star!

• Noodles Noodlemann // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:41 pm

  I dunno much about opera, but I thought he was pretty good. So what if he is not a total amateur? He ain’t making a living at opera, he’s selling mobile phones. Some people just love to be negative. Whether or not he ever makes it a career is not the point.

• William // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:50 pm

  Pavarotti, Domingo, and several other professional opera singers’ versions of Nessun Dorma are available on youtube.com. Compare them and listen again to Potts. None of the “pros” hold certain notes as long or as strongly as Potts. That’s breath control and projection (which is one of the reasons Cecilia Bartoli is one of THE best opera singers in the world). Potts rulez.

• Sam // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:50 pm

  What did he sing tonight? I’m notnormally a fan of opera, but really want to know what that piece is? Thanks. Very glad he isin the final. He is already loved!

• Muzikteechur // Jun 14, 2007 at 10:53 pm

  I hold a Masters degree in Music (my undergrad degree was in Music Education, my Masters in Performance). I have taught music for over 20 years.
  That said, all you musical snobs who would turn your collective noses up to this gentleman (Mr. Paul Potts) can go listen to whatever you choose. You have lost sight of the essence of music: music, like the visual arts, exists, in part, to create an impression on its listeners’ souls. Clearly this performance has done that.
  Are there more technical, more highly-trained singers? Of course. However, the Arts depend upon EMOTION, not perfection.
  Take your snobbery somewhere else. I dedicated my life to Music because I love what it does for my soul. This performance makes me glad to have made that choice.

• admin // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:02 pm

  Semi-final one - the public decides - 14th June 2007

  The first two coveted places in the Britain’s Got Talent final have gone to Paul Potts and Damon Scott.

  Paul Potts was the final act to take to the stage but it was certainly a case of last but not least. As the judges comments rolled in, the salesman had tears in his eyes.

  He welled up once more when the public vote was announced. But will it be tears of sadness and joy for Paul Potts or Damon Scott on Sunday? Only you can decide!

• Sasa // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:09 pm

  ME - You clearly don’t know Opera to post such unknowledgable claptrap as you did.

  Not all are Tenors, which is clear that you only have Luciano running around in that tiny mind of yours.

  Potts is, without question, an outstanding talent and fully deserving of all the plaudits he recieves.

  I dare say that if you tried to sing Opera, you would sound like a frog on heat!.

• Ashleigh // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:10 pm

  Ommggoosshh.
  Paul Potts is awesome

• neverwinter // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:10 pm

  Unbelievable. Its true what people say about there being people more technically accomplished, but who cares? Ive always had a love of the feeling and sorrow you can derive from opera even if you have NFI what they are saying, then to have someone who works a regular blue collar job come along and inspire those emotions is nothing short of astounding.

  @Me: stop trying to make people as miserable as you…

• Muzikteechur // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:12 pm

  I forgot to mention that I’m in the US - so I have no idea what Mr. Potts sang “tonight” (it’s only 6 pm here in Maine, USA).
  I’ll have to wait until someone posts it to YouTube or GoogleVideo!

• sarah // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:12 pm

  it’s called ….time to say goodbye, from the phantom of the opera x

• sarah // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:19 pm

  the song is called “time to say goodbye” and it’s from the phantom of the opera

• Tony // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:20 pm

  I’m not an opera fan by any means but i am a music fan. To the people that want to knock Paul Potts i say one thing. If you can do any better, get up and do it! Stop trying to knock somebody doing what they enjoy and if it brings a bit of fame along the way then good luck to them.
  I hope he does well on Sunday, i for one will be voting for him.

• mick donnelly // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:46 pm

  Paul is so unbelievable .

• mike // Jun 14, 2007 at 11:52 pm

  This was brilliant, paul potts was outstanding, i’m not one really for opera but this made listen. well done paul hope you win the competition.BRILLIANT,FANTASTIC.

• Paul M // Jun 15, 2007 at 12:02 am

  Mike, I know nought about opera but what Paul Potts has done for many others in a similar position has opened peoples minds, including Mr Morgan to what beauty can be created by voice alone and if opera now has only one more follower because of Paul, then that must be a good thing.

  Given the comments on this forum, the chances are Opera will have just become one helluva lot more interesting to many.

  This guy is awesome and you dont need to be Amanda Holden to shed a tear at such a performance. I did too.

  I dont normally want to watch these crappy talent shows but you bet I will be tuning in on Sunday’s final for this guy alone.

• Lisa // Jun 15, 2007 at 12:34 am

  I just saw a video clip of Paul Potts singing here in the US on Fox News. I was completely and utterly speechless. I’m not a big fan of the opera either, but that guy can flat out sing!! It brought tears to my eyes. The anchor on Fox, Brit Hume, said he was just thankful he caught it on Youtube.

  If Paul wasn’t incredibly gifted and talented news outlets from all over the world wouldn’t be taking notice, but taking notice they are.

  I hope to buy one of your CDs one day Paul!

• ricardo // Jun 15, 2007 at 12:54 am

  he make me cry and evry time I see the video in your tube I cry again I will buy any CD from him and be one of his fans

• Doug // Jun 15, 2007 at 1:53 am

  I am 65. Tonight thanks to the youtube vid I used more tissues than in all my life and the only time music ever showed me it’s power to affect emotion to such depth. Paul will well. It would also be my first Opera album purchased. I’m afraid to play it for my Wife when she gets home, she never saw me with tears before.
  Thank you Paul. Do not let the lessons train out the heart.

• Ken // Jun 15, 2007 at 2:17 am

  I admire his heart and his effort. And a beautiful piece of music is still beautiful even if not performed by a top notch artist/group/orchestra.

  However, as an opera and classic musc fan, if you think this is moving, wait until you hear Nessun Dorma performed by an actual tenor. It will truly bring tears to your eyes.

  {And I hate to defend m fellow fans but what they said is true. Paus’s technique, voice etc is far far from professional quality. Here is a hint: professional opera singers do not need a microphone; their voice can easily project in that tiny studio, that is how powerful human voice can be.

• Simon Biddel // Jun 15, 2007 at 2:28 am

  “ME”, you are a toilet

• jaypes // Jun 15, 2007 at 3:30 am

  The song is actually called Nessun Dorma – made famous by Luciano Pavarotti

• jaypes // Jun 15, 2007 at 3:31 am

  Nessun Dorma translates from italian to “Let no one sleep”

• Primo // Jun 15, 2007 at 3:42 am

  Speechless. All I can do is watch the video over and over. I am happy for any person that out of nowhere gets a chance to make their dreams come true. Paul, Thank you my man. My soul thanks you. Goosebumps and tears.

• Anthony // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:29 am

  Bravo Paul. Bravo.
  My emotions were swelling and stirred.

• Gala // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:44 am

  I think, we just discovered a star! Big star! I cannot imagine how Paul would sing after 5 years of training, would it be even better? For some “talents” 10 years wouldn’t be enough, but for Paul it was just one show-up - and star was born. Amazing talent!
  Good luck, Paul!

• kjersten // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:47 am

  To “Me”:

  I surely hope you see this and will write back. You have evaluated Mr. Potts in a very different way that nearly everyone else.

  What is your operatic training? Do you work in the world of opera?

  Kjersten

• kjersten // Jun 15, 2007 at 5:03 am

  To “Me”:

  I’m still waiting for a response from you. You probably are sleeping and do not realize that I want to hear from you.

  When you write, please describe your professional credentials.

  I am interested to know if your colleagues have evaluated the performance as you did.

  Kjersten

• POTTS FAN! // Jun 15, 2007 at 5:44 am

  This guy is amazingly good. I hope he wins, but im sorry to say that this might just be part of his 15 minutes. I hope im wrong, but even the winners of these shows are sometimes forgotten after a week or 2.
  This guy put a smile on my mothers face that I havent seen in a while and one that I needed to see with her. For this guy to give me that small bonding moment meant the world and may god bless this man!

• canuck2 // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:13 am

  I listen to opera once in a while.. Pavarotti and company are good but never moved me as Paul Potts did. As the Prof said up here, it’s all about EMOTIONS and Paul can turn a punk rocker into a crying baby.. unlike Pavarotti, Paul doesn’t sing for the money , he sing because he loves it and he FEEL it.. I went back today, just for fun ,to listen to other signers {Bocelli and Co.} after Paul’s performance… none of those other guys did raise any hairs on my body… I can listen to Paul 20 + times , but Bocelli only a few times thank you.

  Can you feel the magic touch !

• John // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:31 am

  What a fantastic performance….my sister is a professional opera singer and I’ve sent her the clip and can’t wait for her to listen to it as I’m sure she would be extremely impressed, he brought me to tears and I’m a tough guy. Great job Paul, all the best and may your dreams come true…don’t give up!!!

• ls4art // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:35 am

  Yess!!!! Woow Hooo! You GO Paul Potts. That rocked my world man! Do it again. DO it again! Cut an album Ill buy it. The definition of art by the way is “the quality of communication”. It by definition produces an emotional impact. If it dose that it’s art.

• Cakes // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:51 am

  Actually the song is “Nessun Dorma,” an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini’s opera Turandot.

• JO USA // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:56 am

  Holy Cow! What a gift! I cried like a baby. Must have more Paul! You’re a star, baby! I’m waiting in line for your CDs. Hurry!
  God Bless you!

• Aria // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:02 am

  That simple man, standing there singing his heart out with such beauty, made me cry…over and over. To me this is real talent and real opera, even more than the perfection of Domingo and Pavoritti, both of whom I’ve seen in person and loved. The everyman quality that Potts brings is something you can feel close to and rips at my heart. Can’t wait to hear more from him.

• admin // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:12 am

  UPDATE:
  http://vipglamour.net/2007/06/15/paul-potts-semi-final-winning-opera-performance-on-britains-got-talent/

• Jennie // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:30 am

  This man really deserves to the win the competition but if he doesn’t I hope he gets to hold a concert - I would definitely pay to see him! What a voice!

• mute // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:49 am

  Im from the US so I barely found this guy..that right there is an example of courage, look in potts eyes!! wat I saw in them was lack of self-conidence, nonetheless a guy doing what he loves and have others enjoy it too. …he could very well lose in the next round, but Godalmighty, that guy sang his heart out-cant ask for more.

• gengo // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:50 am

  me is a goose this guy can sing and it makes you wanna listen over n over

• Fedup // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:51 am

  ADMIN: Your comment ‘Cool for such a PLAIN guy to sing like that’, made me so angry!

  Do you think only beautiful people have the keys to the top? I’m so sick of people judging others by how they look. There are probably thousands of talented people out there, who are just plain ordinary folk..but don’t stand a chance in this shallow, beauty consumed world we live in. Maybe you should learn the old adage…NEVER judge a book by it’s cover!
  I for one, love classical music…and Paul Potts for me, was inspirational! Take this chance with both hands Paul, and run with it as fast and as far as you can go! Good luck!

• Erika // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:59 am

  If Paul’s cell phone company is smart they will give him a new job singing opera to promote their phones on commercials before he lands a contract to sing professionally.
  People have different preferences in life. As my dad used to say, “That’s why God made chocolate and vanilla.” Paul has an extraordinary voice that conveys emotion and has helped me to appreciate opera. I am 45 years old and in the 19 years that I spent living at home with my parents before marriage being exposed to the “pros” never made me “appreciate” this art form. I can honestly say that Paul Potts was able to converted me in less than two minutes. I’m willing to give opera another chance!
  Paul, you are the best! Please keep singing. You are a breath of fresh air in a world that has become monotone and tone deaf.

• admin // Jun 15, 2007 at 9:01 am

  Hey Just noticed - we have two ADMINS posting - I am the original Admin (who made the original post ) and I never made any comments about Paul being Plain. Actually, the more and more I listen to him, the more beautiful he becomes - Paul Potts is from what I can tell, a very beautiful human being.

• Fedup // Jun 15, 2007 at 9:06 am

  Yes, it appears there are two ADMINS posting, and the one I was referring to in my post, knows who they are! Tut.

• Peter // Jun 15, 2007 at 9:18 am

  I have never heard such a pure voice. Never ever any song, ANY shocked me like this purest out of pure singing out of your hard. Just look at this guy. I am also shocked, that nobody helpted him to build his carrier immidiately. Paul you are rich and famos from nowone. People from all over the world know about you already. you don’t even belong in that show. I have listen to you since yeterday about 200 times. Every time me and frends having guss bumps from beginning. You are a legend.

• sophist // Jun 15, 2007 at 9:47 am

  music is a broadcast of emotions, ideally.
  commenting from germany here (excuse my english).
  first to state i am not into musik it all, frankly the sound i enjoy most is a ironic quantumphysicfashioned one, this being said, you know i am talking about silence.
  (logically i am offspring of a family of many musically driven generations, i just hit the state of the purest sound)

  though as said before anything to be art has to connect or communicate to one emotionaly, which is definatly the case here, i have to agree to mike at some points.
  i certainly dont share his conspicuous disfavour of positive feelings toward mr. potts’ performance, but, i too (yet being striked in the same manner as most of you), feel a lack of power in his singing. not his communicative power of emotions, but his voice.

  as many of you stated you dig paul potts.
  he might just have noticed that. the producers of this show definatly knew what was comming onto them. as my favorite music judge simon cowell says, you being a handy sailsman come here and do “that” while looking at a paper where he reads the musical backround of pott, his education, his history. hearing potts live you see the dollars in simons eyes, tipping the pen to his lips, already calculating, all he need to wait for is the audience, the consumers, and the many reactions and reflections on the media all over the blue planet.
  no offense kids, this is produced (just like all those shows) this is market investigation at its finest. the elite of makers. using those who cant stand up for themselves. every single one of these shows gives you the typical soap characters throughout the show, just more real, because they are. public casting is pure entertainment and sells for just as much as it is planned and sometimes for even more.
  how i, who does not even own a TV, dare to say so? i got rid of the thing over 8 years ago, and whatever there is being broadcasted it still finds its way to me. i am just trying to enjoy consuming a little more true to myself.

  you oughta understand mike, he might not know yet, but this is exactly what he dislikes about paul. paul being real and unique, still exchangeable. if he’d seen paul in the club around the corner, he`d recognize his quality and enrichment to the clubs recent live acts.
  instead he is served this real but produced random guy’s performance filmed and cut by people who are good at what they do. and then? he aint that random after all, having focused on opera for several years, having spent lots of time effort and cash on training. being trained by the big guys (btw. back in the day when they first met him they were pretty impressed).
  we all will see what that talent show’s contract will bring up, in case you promise on spending money by letting him win the competition.

  i hope paul will achieve what he already pursued in the past, being on stage, singing.

  don’t let little miss amanda trick you though.

  he certainly is no raw diamond.
  raw diamonds dont shine. paul potts does.

• david greenslade // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:02 am

  What can you say pure brilliance! last nights performance brought me to tears,absolutely out standing makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up this guy is fantastic mind blowing voice a future mega star makes FANTASTIC

• Post for Paul! // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:32 am

  Paul has been a regular forum contributor for OneCompare.com for a while now and told us he was going for the auditions but we had no idea he would be this good! Make a post on our thread to support him so he can take a look when he is taking a short break from being an international superstar!

  http://www.onecompare.com/mobile-news/304/23564897/vote-for-paul-potts-on-itv’s-britain’s-got-talent.htm

• Northstorm // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:44 am

  Name: Paul Potts
  Age:36
  Occupation: Mobile phone salesman
  Lives: Port Talbot

  Did you know?

  Paul first sang opera at the age of 28 for a karaoke competition– he dressed up as Pavarotti.

  He went on to perform in Barrymore’s ‘My Kind Of Music’ (1999). The money he won from the show (£8000) along with his savings was spent on attending various training courses in Italy.

  From his Italian opera class he was selected to sing in master class’ for Pavarotti and Katia Ricciarelli – who he says were very impressed. Paul reckons he’s spent £20,000 in total to get to where he is today.

  Paul has performed in 4 semi professional operas in the UK and some concerts. His proudest performance was with the philimonic orchestra in a concert in front of 15, 000 people

  After having appendicitis doctors discovered a benign tumour that was removed. 2 weeks after the operation he was back on stage.

  A motorbike accident in 2003 which he broke his collar bone kept him away from performing and he got left out of the opera circles. Since his illness he has struggled with money and has never reached his potential in Opera and this is why he has chosen to enter Britain’s got talent.

  Married for 4 years to his wife Julie (26) whom he met on a internet chat room. They have been together for 6 years in total

  Paul has worked at the Carephone warehouse for 2 years, for 1 year as manager – before that he worked the night shift at Tesco’s shelf stacking / internet personal shopping.

  Growing up in a family that teached in the arts i hated opera UNTIL NOW.

• Northstorm // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:45 am

  oh and this information is from the offical brittish got talent web site at
  http://talent.itv.com/page.asp?partid=332

• stink bomb // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:52 am

  My god theres some bittereness on here, man was great, so what if he’s had a bit of training and done a few performances, ive dj’d in a few clubs for peanuts and it doesnt make me a pro in any way. Your only a pro when you dont have to worry about every day things like eating and surviving and can put all your effort into it. As has been said maybe he isnt perfect but has raw talent and emotion so with a bit more training he’s there. I personally think he’ll win it and become a pretty famous name.

• David // Jun 15, 2007 at 12:02 pm

  Some very interesting thoughts in these comments.

  For those of you that are interested in giving your praise or making your thoughts about Paul known, perhaps you might want to try his site at http://www.PaulPottsMusic.com

  He is fantastic! Can’t wait for his first CD!

  David

• liz clarke // Jun 15, 2007 at 12:45 pm

  my heart went out to paul what a wonderful voice i hope he wins and gets the chance to sing in front of the queen he deserves it good luck to him liz south wales

• Tony // Jun 15, 2007 at 1:53 pm

  I heard this guy sing on youtube and he is AMAZING. His voice is better than any idol crap. We are hearing lots about Paul Potts down here in Australia. We think he will be on the world stage very soon and will be a big star.

• C From Canada // Jun 15, 2007 at 2:32 pm

  I’m not an opera buff nor am I aware of any technical deficiencies in Pott’s voice but the sheer emotion in it was enough to make me sit up and listen.
  And how do we know whether or not he has the power to sing over an orchestra in a full opera house?
  My god you’re listening to it over a crap Internet Video through a computer sound system and if that set up can evoke emotion I can’t imagine what a live performance would do.
  Does he have a future as an opera singer? Don’t know. Maybe he isn’t as technically proficient as he’d need to be to be a principle (or maybe he is).
  Does he have a future as an entertainer??
  MOST DEFINITELY!!
  After all , Pavarotti only became a household name AFTER he started touring and giving concerts instead of performing opera’s.
  Pott’s has the opportunity to bring opera to the “common” people and only the best of it. Ever tried to sit through a full opera?? almost 80% is boring drivel while maybe 20% is inspired. I want the 20%. Let the opera purists have the other 80%.

• ME // Jun 15, 2007 at 2:50 pm

  What a bunch of morons!

• Johnnypop // Jun 15, 2007 at 2:55 pm

  It’s true Potts didn’t get to the level he’s at by singing in the shower, but he’s still, in my opinion, a true amateur and was qualified to be on Britain’s Got Talent. I think he would have a good chance in the professional world of opera and wish him Godspeed. A “Rocky” moment!

• C From Canada // Jun 15, 2007 at 3:14 pm

  Who is this “ME” that drops in once in a while with comments like..”What a bunch of morons!”? but no constructive criticism as to why.
  Either a pompous opera fanatic with a degree in Arts or a spam bot…not sure.
  You simply can’t honestly judge the quality of the singing based on a UTube video BUT , his first performance brought tears to my eyes so , given the fact the sound quality was crap he must have SOMETHING in his voice that will make him a household name one of these days (he probably is already thanks to the TV show).

• SingerC // Jun 15, 2007 at 3:54 pm

  While I say bravo to Paul for following up on something he is passionate about, I think he should enjoy that moment and stop there. Or go and study some more to develop his raw talent.

  I am an opera singer who has worked for years, like most other singers with a career, to perfect this art. Sometimes you don’t even get to see the benefits until much later. It is a difficult type of singing to perfect, and it takes not only great dedication, but a deep love for the music to carry on with it for as long as we do.

  I understand that many people love the idea of just anyone being able to belt out an aria and have an instant career, but really? Is instant success likely in any profession? Opera is not just for “snobs” and people who appreciate beautiful voices that will actually carry over an orchestra without a microphone are also not “snobs”. Go put on an old recording of Pavarotti singing “Nessun dorma”. Now that is something.

• Skeptical Opera Fan // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:05 pm

  I think its wonderful that people are now enjoying Opera because of Paul Potts, and I think it’s wonderful that the man finally got the confidence to go up and sing on stage. However, a few things don’t really check out with me. You’re all talking about the raw emotion he had and how it moved you all to tears but seriously, I didn’t even have chills. In fact, I thought it was plain and just a guy singing without knowing what the song is really about. And come on, this is from the person who cried when someone played a sonata on piano. (It was so moving… the raw emotion and energy… it was like the player ripped out his beating heart and offered it unconditionally to the audience…)Oh yes, you piano pieces can actually make you cry.
  Secondly, Paul Potts, to me looks like a bit of a fraud. Now, I watch the video on youtube and he himself said that he has never really had the confidence to sing (if my memory serves me well), however, Paul has apparently sung for all kinds of Opera companies, Pavorotti (which, if I had to sing in front of a master/great like that, would be absolutely scared shitless) and in front of an audience of 15,000 by reports. Also, if he’s had all this experience and training and the fact that an Opera company would take him would have to mean he was at least trained for a while thus meaning that he should have a at least competent grasp of singing technical aspects. Yet he displayed, like, none in Nessum Dorma.
  Yeah, I dunno, it may not sound like a strong argument to you all but seriously, I think he’s just another Russel Watson. A man, may I remind you, who had a similar story to Paul Potts and has now basically screwed his voice up through improper use whilst singing heavy Opera songs.

  That’s my two cents worth.

• SingerC // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:29 pm

  P.S. I see many of you don’t like Pavarotti. Why don’t you give Marcelo Alvarez a go…he is a great actor and a fantastic singer.

• C From Canada // Jun 15, 2007 at 4:33 pm

  @SingerC .. Potts has paid his “dues”. According to various web sites he has invested over $60,000 into his training , traveled Europe taking classes with various singers ,performed for the Bath Opera Society as part of a chorus and as a principle as well as numerous other engagements.

  He is by no means self-taught but a well trained singer.He has been singing opera for years.

  I think what makes him unique is that he entered a TALENT show (rather than an opera competition) and exposed his talent to the general public who are intrigued by the quality of his singing which in turn led to his immediate notice and popularity.

  I honestly admire you for studying opera but don’t degrade Pott’s abilities simply because he chose to enter a talent show for exposure. You yourself as an opera student , must know how hard it is to get noticed,Pott’s simply chose an easier rout.

  And as I’ve said before , one cannot honestly judge the quality of a voice through a UTube video as I’ve played Pavarotti singing “Nessun dorma” on Utube to see if Pott’s performance really was all that good and all I can say is it certainly didn’t have the raw emotion that Pott’s UTube rendition did.In fact , it was rather boring I’m sad to say.

• SingerC // Jun 15, 2007 at 5:54 pm

  C from Canada: you do have a good point about the fact that this man did invest time in study. I don’t think I realised that this was the case.

  Honestly, I think he chose the talent show route because he is not good enough to compete with the likes of those who take the route that will lead to a career in opera. The fact of the matter is that he has major technical issues, that would never allow for him to carry over any sort of orchestra.

  It is frustrating to see yet another person who will most likely have their maybe one-year career with a cd deal and wide fan base with very little talent for the music he is attempting to sing. “Operatunity” anyone? That was another example.

  I hope that people who truly love this music will give some professionals a chance. Bryn Terfel? No one can argue that this man is passionate about singing and although he has a few minor flaws, has a gorgeous voice. Pavarotti is not the greatest actor…he is an example of the old school where sometimes a spectacular instrument was enough for a career. Today, that is not really the case.

  I love to play basketball. It is a passion of mine. However, I am not very good at it. Hence, the reason I do not attempt to do this for my career.

• Anna // Jun 15, 2007 at 5:55 pm

  I’ve heard Pavarotti. I find him pompous and boring. I dislike tenors in general (more of a baritone appreciator…)

  My husband started me on Opera - which I always thought I hated. Now we regularly attend opera productions, both amateur and professional.

  I was crying when I saw this guy’s video on YouTube. Yeah - he ain’t Pavarotti - THANK GOD! If he were, I wouldn’t bother listening over and over.

  I hope he does make a record so that those of us who are tired of the stuffed shirt snobs of opera can buy it and show appreciation to someone with real emotion and love of his art.

• Petesy // Jun 15, 2007 at 5:57 pm

  I think that what makes this performance so amazing is the raw emotion in Potts’ performance. I have heard ND on a number of occasions, but this was the first time I had felt it. If Paul Potts released an album, I would buy it, and if he toured, I would surely go.

  One of the most amazing things I have heard and seen.

• my2cents // Jun 15, 2007 at 6:06 pm

  I agree. He’s very talented, but he’s still rough around the edges in order to become a professional opera singer. He’ll have to study in a voice program for several years, but there’s no doubt that he’s got incredible promise.

• Bill // Jun 15, 2007 at 7:05 pm

  Well, ME, old top, it looks like you’ve got egg on your face, doesn’t it? Maybe next time you can use a little common sense and reserve judgment until you find out what you are talking about. It would have been sufficient for you to just say you don’t like the man or the music, but you just completely showed your ass (case in point) when you tried to trash the man’s credentials. Shame on you.

• TB // Jun 15, 2007 at 7:10 pm

  It was great performance, and Paul will surely win this competition. And I had a tear in my eye - as much for the performance as for the fact that someone with a small instrument has done so well.

  But go on YouTube and listen to del Monaco or Corelli or Lauri-Volpi, Domingo or even Pavarotti (his final top C is glorious, but he can’t act, and Carreras is awful) sing this same aria, and he’s just not in the same league.

  I hope he does well in the future.

• Treytruk // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:16 pm

  Golly gosh! To “ME” and all of the others who find fault with Mr. Potts “technical” performance, I would like to THANK you for enlightening me! How silly and unsophisticated do I feel for allowing Paul’s imperfect talent move me to the point of tears. I have also applied this philosophy to my appreciation of other aspects within the art world. No longer will I feel any emotion whatsoever when I view a Van Gogh, Matisse, Monet, etc. They were NOT technically photo-realistic in their representation, so now I DESPISE them! BAD artists! BAD BAD BAD! How dare those technically imperfect dreamers EVER apply brush to canvas. Heavens to Betsy, Paul has sung BEFORE? Well, that REALLY makes me feel as though I enjoyed his performance a bit more than I was supposed to.

  How sad that beauty cannot be simply appreciated…..it has to be “critiqued” to allow those who did not create such wonder to feel as though, in their own minds, they can measure up to others if they are able to knock them down a notch or two.

  Paul, I don’t care if you have an “imperfect” voice, or if you have sung opera with some little company before. You have an AMAZING voice, and obviously, from the responses I have read, you possess another talent. You seem to have the ability to reach out and actually TOUCH the souls of those who hear you, what the more arrogant (eloquent?) and critical on this thread might refer to as “Je Ne Sais Quoi” (Dat be frenchy-talk)

  People who think Pavarotti is someone who chases Paris Hilton around trying to take her picture heard you and were deeply affected…….Secretaries and truckers, waitresses and salesmen, everyday people who lead everyday lives heard you and were awakened to a new facet of music, one they NEVER expected. Thank you Paul for sharing with us, for adding to the beauty of the world. I get a little personal thrill inside knowing that you are achieving something your heart dared to dream of, and I am anxious to see you excel. I sincerely wish this man all the best, and I hope he gets the opportunities to grasp his aspirations.

  That being said, all you nay-sayers are just a bunch of buttheads. Paul, YOU ROCK!!!

• Len // Jun 15, 2007 at 8:45 pm

  TB…you are correct. Paul Pott is not in the same league…as others. He just blew them all out of the water with “RAW” talent. Listen..I am in Los Angeles, CA and everyone in the office, radio stations and national TV(ABC to be specific) are talking about this guy! When was the last time “Monaco, Corelli, Lauri-Volpi, Domingo or even Pavarotti” created so much buzz in the world of Opera. I personally love Andrea Bocelli but Paul Potts is my new favorite and just hope someone signs this guy so I can buy the CD. Cheers Paul good on ya mate!

• Arthur // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:04 pm

  Really people, I dont know about opera, and maybe all those people who think Paul Potts is another fraud and so on, maybe they are right, but still, what he did is outstanding, and that is, i think, the most important thing. Speculating about his future is not relevant, its just guessing about things you dont know, and cant predict. So i just want to say: well done Paul !
  Arthur from Belgium

• Phil // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:32 pm

  Paul Potts and these blogs remind of a Harry Chapin song called Mr. Tanner. Paul Potts touched me in the same way that Mr. Tanner did. I couldn’t find the song on-line but the lyrics are at: http://www.harrychapin.com/music/tanner.shtml

  It is really best when heard sung by Harry Chapin with the non-professional barotone opera singer in the background.

• james // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:43 pm

  I can’t believe that some people are slagging Paul on this…sure, he aint in the same league as Pavarotti etc, but for a bloke that has had no trainin and has worked in a phone shop, he is amazing. If he does not win this competition then it will be a disgrace…and i wish him all the best in the future…peace out!

• james // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:53 pm

  i’m sorry…i was misinformed…Paul Potts has, apparently, had a little bit of training but i still keep my point…he kicked ass…he shows so much emotion when he sings and that is far more appealing to me then the stuffy old tenors…sure they can write music but where is the feeling…that is what music is all about…peace out!…p.s. GO PAUL!!

• maestrmuti // Jun 15, 2007 at 10:54 pm

  What is so terrific about Paul Potts is that he gives us a sense of hope. Here is a guy with real talent (Ok, he’s not Domingo) and who has worked hard at his craft. He’s a regular guy with a regular job and he’s a bit insecure….he’s like most of us. For someone like that to conquer his fears and put himself in such a vulnerable position took courage. It’s about time someone with talent and humility gets recognized in this world of Britney’s and Paris Hilton’s.

• Mark // Jun 15, 2007 at 11:13 pm

  removed

• Michael Machiller // Jun 15, 2007 at 11:28 pm

  Paul is a very talented but it seems that he has had opera training. Look here:
  http://www.bathopera.co.uk/Past%20Productions/Aida/aida_biographies.htm

• Albert - a Canuck // Jun 15, 2007 at 11:36 pm

  ME. Seriously. You don’t explain how you know anything, whereas all of us know the most important of things: Paul is an amazing voice and an excellent human being. I’m a tough Canadian guy, and this dude made me shed tears. He’s turned me on to opera too. Paul, you rock!!!!

• Clint // Jun 16, 2007 at 12:35 am

  Whether, or not the guy has been trained, he’s got more talent than I’ve heard from anyone since Josh Groban hit the scene…

• Pete in Maryland // Jun 16, 2007 at 12:43 am

  Why are people impressed with those who can sing loudly enough not to need a microphone? Beautiful singing has nothing to do with microphones. Obviously some of the writers above haven’t been to the opera lately. Everything is miked these days - in fact, over-miked. Yelling is one thing, singing is another.

• laverart // Jun 16, 2007 at 12:58 am

  I appreciate a wide variety of music styles and opera has never been high on my list. Some opera I really like, but most of it doesn’t have much of an impact on me. I’ve watched and re-watched Paul’s last 2 performances and I can’t believe how much it moves me. That’s the whole point of any art form, invoking an emotional response. There are lots of vey talented professional artists, whether musicians, painters, poets, etc. who are technically superb and very skilled at their crafts and who are recognized by the critics as being “the best”. Critics like to display that they are experts and like to dissect performance based on their own percieved intellectual superiority over “the rest of us”. Most critics are so jaded that they no longer have the ability to recognize an artist who actually has the ability to reach right in and grab you by the heart. Paul Potts may not have the type of technical excellence that critics are so enamored of, but OH MY GOD, he sings from the depths of his soul! This is a very rare thing, that one simple, humble, unassuming, average guy can move so many people to tears. There are a lot of professional singers who can never even begin to dream of having the kind of emotional impact on such a wide range of totally different people as Paul has obviously done. Kudos to you, Paul! In a matter of just a few days, you have turned on more average Joe’s to the potential magic of opera than all of the Pavarotti’s, Domingo’s and Corell