Michael Bolton Singing with Pavarotti changed my life

Michael Bolton has written and performed with a who’s who of music stars over his 40-year career.

But one collaboration in particular left a lasting impression.

An invitation by Luciano Pavarotti to sing Nessun Dorma with him was “life-altering” according to the 61-year-old.

“It profoundly impacted the way I sing, train and preserve my voice,” he said. “The opportunity was thrilling and equally daunting. The classical discipline changed the way I was using my voice.

“Now, no matter where in the world I’m performing, I try to always include Nessun Dorma in my set and give homage to the greatest tenor ever.”

Other songs sure to be on Michael’s setlist in his latest UK tour are tracks from his new album, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, which is a tribute to Motown.

The UK version of the album features duets with Leona Lewis and X Factor winner Sam Bailey, who Michael has become close to since she appeared on the TV show.

“Sam Bailey is an astounding singer and also a very genuine, kind person,” he continued. “I first learned about her from my music publisher in the UK. When I found out she was a fan, I contacted her through Twitter.

“We started communicating online she would share stories and I would offer her advice, being encouraging and supportive of her through the competition.

“The next thing I know, the X Factor producers wanted to organise a surprise visit, so I flew to London and showed up on the doorstep of the contestants’ house. Sam was beyond surprised!”

Like 36-year-old Sam, Michael was a little older before he made his mark in music, although not through lack of trying.

“It took me 18 years and nine albums, with many close calls, before I finally achieved success as a solo artist,” he said. “I was actually 16 when I first signed well, my mum had to sign on my behalf my first record deal with Epic. But I was quickly dropped.

“However, everything I did, all the people I met and experiences along the way, eventually found their way into my music.

“And the most important talents I developed, out of necessity to pay the rent and keep food on the table for my family, was my songwriting.

“It was a very difficult and quite long climb, and there were days and weeks and months that were just dark, with bills and eviction threats piling up.

“But every time I was about to lose hope, there was always a sign, an opportunity, a light at the end of the tunnel, that kept me going.”

Michael plays Newcastle City Hall on Wednesday and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Friday.