Introduction:
Engelbert Humperdinck Reflects on Life, Love, and Lessons in Showbusiness
Engelbert Humperdinck, the beloved Leicester-born crooner whose career has spanned nearly six decades, recently reflected on his life, career, and the lessons he wishes he could share with his younger self. Speaking to Jane Graham ahead of his UK tour—which was postponed and is expected to be rescheduled next year—Humperdinck shared stories from his early life, first love, and the path that led him to global fame.
Humperdinck left school at 15 to work as an engineering apprentice, fulfilling his father’s wish for him to have a stable career. But his true passion lay elsewhere. “I did it for about a year, but my wish was to be in showbusiness,” he recalled. A year later, at 17, he sang in a club after a pint of beer gave him the courage to perform. The crowd’s enthusiastic response convinced him to pursue singing seriously, starting in working men’s clubs.
Shy and reserved as a boy, Humperdinck admitted that his only first date ended in disaster. “I turned my back and sang… then I turned around, and she’d gone,” he said, laughing. His teenage years were spent largely alone, practicing his saxophone or studying, which he says helped him focus on his ambitions. Military service from 18 to 20 further shaped his character, instilling confidence and resilience.
Humperdinck’s career took off in 1967 with the release of Release Me, a song that catapulted him to worldwide fame and launched a global career that saw him sell more than 120 million albums by 1974. Despite his success, he has faced challenges, including mismanagement early in his career that cost him fortunes. “Ignorance is a terrible thing,” he said, reflecting on lessons learned in business and personal finances.
Beyond the stage, Humperdinck cherished family. He fondly remembered his parents’ support, from Leicester to Las Vegas, and the guidance of his late wife, Patricia Healey, who passed away in February after contracting COVID-19. “I considered my wife my soulmate. She was very instrumental in my early years… I’m back to touring. I’m doing it for her,” he said.
Even today, performing remains both a source of joy and nervous anticipation. “Before I walk on stage I’m still nervous… then I walk on and there’s five minutes of nerves and it all goes away. My stage is my platform of joy,” he said. Humperdinck continues to tour, grateful for the opportunity to share his music with audiences around the world, and reflecting on a life built on passion, perseverance, and the love of family and fans.