Humperdinck didn't always possess his extravagant title. In fact he was born May 2nd 1936 as Arnold George Dorsey. A talented child, Dorsey began playing the saxophone at 11 and by 17 years of age he belonged to a group. More familiarly known as Gerry, Dorsey turned towards a singing career when challenged by friends to perform a song in a contest. Dorsey won that contest and the path was laid for his future success. This path to success however, was initially, a very rocky road to traverse.
By 1963, Dorsey's career had hit a severe downward turn. Adding insult to injury, 2 years later Dorsey was afflicted with Tuberculosis, a disease which almost killed him. Despite entering the entertainment industry at an early age, Dorsey would be 30 years old before complete success found him and made him the star that we know today.
In 1966 an old friend, Gordon Mills, became Dorsey's manager. It was Mills who changed Dorsey's name to the one we know so well today - Engelbert Humperdinck was born!
Gaining a slot on one of Britain's premier television shows, Engelbert introduced the UK to what was to become one of his most famous hits - 'Release Me.'
With this one song, Humperdinck secured a golden future!
"Release Me,' went on to the number 1 spot in the UK charts and stayed there for 5 weeks, selling 8 million records.
The records kept on coming hit after hit and with his own TV show which increased his popularity, Humperdinck went on to become the largest selling artist in the UK. (See 'Achievements' below). Today, he still tours all over the world, accompanied by 3 of his 4 children.
- Over 130 million records sold including 64 gold & 23 platinum albums!
- Average sales total 5 million records a year!
- 'Entertainer of the Year' - Golden Globe Award.
- Has his own 'star' in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Has been married to his wife Patricia for over 35 years!
- There are 250 fan clubs Worldwide with approximately 8 million members.
Interesting Facts
- Humperdinck's name was inspired by an Austrian composer of 'Hansel & Gretel.'
- The hit song, 'Release Me,' kept the Beatles, 'Strawberry Fields Forever' from grabbing the Number 1 spot in the charts!
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