Arnold George Dorsey MBE, born on 2 May 1936, is a name that resonates with timeless melodies and an enduring legacy in the world of music. Professionally known as Engelbert Humperdinck, this British pop sensation has carved his niche as “one of the finest middle-of-the-road balladeers around,” leaving an indelible mark on the international music scene since his emergence in 1967.
Changes and “Release Me”
In the mid-1960s, Dorsey, collaborating with Gordon Mills, transitioned into Engelbert Humperdinck, a name borrowed from the 19th-century German composer. His career took flight, with early success in Belgium’s Knokke song contest. Notably, “Dommage, Dommage” marked his entry into the Belgian charts, signaling the start of a remarkable journey.
The turning point came in early 1967 when Humperdinck’s rendition of “Release Me” soared to the top of the UK charts and secured the 4th spot on the US Billboard 100. The orchestral country music style, orchestrated by Charles Blackwell, showcased Humperdinck’s vocal prowess, preventing even The Beatles from claiming the UK’s top spot.
“A Man Without Love” and 1970s
Following the success of “Release Me,” Humperdinck continued to enchant audiences with hits like “A Man Without Love” and “Les Bicyclettes de Belsize,” reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The late 1960s saw the release of albums such as Release Me, The Last Waltz, A Man Without Love, and Engelbert Humperdinck, forming the foundation of his illustrious career.
The 1970s marked a shift toward album-oriented recordings and lavish stage productions. Humperdinck’s charisma and balladry found a natural home in Las Vegas, where he became a regular performer, epitomizing the era’s entertainment extravagance.
“After the Lovin’” and 1980s/1990s
In 1976, “After the Lovin’” emerged as a chart-topping ballad, earning accolades and commercial success. The album of the same name went Gold, reaching the top 20 on US charts. Humperdinck’s pivot into the “Philadelphia Sound” showcased his versatility and added another dimension to his musical repertoire.
The 1980s and 1990s witnessed a continued surge in Humperdinck’s career, with recordings, live performances, and notable appearances on television dramas. His commitment to charitable causes paralleled his musical achievements, earning him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989 and a Golden Globe Award.
2000s Onward
The new millennium ushered in a prolific phase for Humperdinck. In 2012, he represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest with “Love Will Set You Free.” Although placed 25th, his participation underscored his enduring relevance in the industry.
Humperdinck’s discography continued to flourish, highlighted by the double CD of duets, Engelbert Calling (2014), featuring collaborations with renowned artists. Celebrating 50 years of chart success, the compilation album Engelbert Humperdinck 50 entered the UK charts at No. 5 in 2017, reaffirming his status as a beloved British icon.
The Evergreen Entertainer
Engelbert Humperdinck, well into his sixth decade as an entertainer, continues to enchant audiences globally. His 2017 album, The Man I Want to Be, showcased his timeless appeal, featuring covers and new compositions. Later releases, including Warmest Christmas Wishes (2018) and Reflections (2019), further demonstrated his musical dexterity.
As he graced stages around the world in 2021 and 2022, including a return to the London Palladium, Humperdinck’s influence transcended generations. His songs even found a place in contemporary media, with “A Man Without Love” featured in the Marvel Studios series Moon Knight.
Engelbert Humperdinck Age
How old isEngelbert Humperdinck? Engelbert Humperdinck was born on May 2, 1936.
Engelbert Humperdinck Height
How tall is Engelbert Humperdinck? Engelbert Humperdinck stands at the height of 1.8m.
Engelbert Humperdinck Nationality
Engelbert Humperdinck is a British.
Engelbert Humperdinck Songs
Here are some of Engelbert Humperdinck most notable songs:
- “Release Me” (1967)
- “The Last Waltz” (1967)
- “A Man Without Love” (1968)
- “Les Bicyclettes de Belsize” (1968)
- “Am I That Easy to Forget” (1968)
- “Winter World of Love” (1969)
- “Quando, Quando, Quando” (1968)
- “Spanish Eyes” (1968)
- “There Goes My Everything” (1967)
- “After the Lovin’” (1976)
- “This Moment in Time” (1979)
- “A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening” (1985)
- “Portofino” (1985)
- “Strangers in the Night” (1966)
- “I Just Called to Say I Love You” (1987)
- “How to Win Your Love” (1979)
- “Too Beautiful to Last” (1970)
- “Love Me with All Your Heart” (1969)
- “You Inspire Me” (2005)
- “Love Will Set You Free” (2012)