RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Andrea Bocelli, one of the world's most celebrated tenors, is set to grace the stage at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi on December 31, offering a night of unforgettable music, grandeur, and cultural elegance. Bocelli, whose voice is synonymous with timeless beauty and emotional resonance, brings his global renown and decades of experience to the heart of the UAE, providing a fitting celebration for New Year's Eve.
Bocelli, born on September 22, 1958, in Lajatico, Tuscany, Italy, is known for his remarkable voice and inspiring life story. Blind since the age of 12 due to congenital glaucoma and a football accident, Bocelli's musical journey began early. He showed a profound passion for music as a child, learning to play the piano, flute, and saxophone. Despite his visual impairment, he pursued his studies with determination, earning a law degree from the University of Pisa while performing in local piano bars to support his education.
Bocelli's big break came in 1992 when Italian rock star Zucchero held auditions for a demo of the song "Miserere". Bocelli's rendition impressed Luciano Pavarotti, who recommended him for the recording. This led to Bocelli gaining attention and soon signing with a major label. His debut album, "Il Mare Calmo della Sera" (1994), marked the beginning of a stellar career.
Over the years, Bocelli has released numerous best-selling albums that blend operatic arias with pop ballads, earning him global acclaim. His 1997 single "Con Te Partirò" (and its duet version with Sarah Brightman, "Time to Say Goodbye") became a worldwide sensation. Bocelli's versatility has made him a beloved figure in both the classical and pop worlds, with albums like Romanza, Sacred Arias, and Sì reaching millions.
Bocelli has performed in prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, the Vatican, and the Olympics and has collaborated with renowned artists like Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, and Barbra Streisand, further cementing his reputation as one of the most influential voices in modern music.
With over 90 million records sold worldwide, Bocelli continues to inspire audiences with his story of resilience and his extraordinary talent.
Bocelli made his UAE debut on March 2009, at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, delivering a breathtaking performance that introduced him to local audiences. This concert set the tone for his enduring relationship with the UAE, as he became a frequent visitor to the region, often performing at prestigious venues and high-profile events.
He also performed at the Dubai Opera shortly after the venue's opening in December 2016. In April 2019, Bocelli returned to Abu Dhabi for a performance at the du Arena on Yas Island, where he captivated thousands with a repertoire that included operatic classics and crossover hits. The event was part of the UAE's Eid Al Etihad celebrations, emphasising the country's commitment to hosting world-class entertainment.
In September 2021, Bocelli performed during Expo 2020 Dubai, a global event that celebrated innovation and culture. He also performed at Etihad Park in November 2022 and he took to the stage on January 2024, under the open skies of Saadiyat Nights.
Through his frequent visits and unforgettable performances, Bocelli has become a symbol of artistic excellence in the UAE, and his concerts are among the most eagerly anticipated events in the region. As a global ambassador for music, Bocelli's presence in Abu Dhabi highlights the UAE's growing prominence as a cultural hub. Over the years, the country has invested significantly in promoting arts and culture, attracting world-class talent and fostering a vibrant creative scene.
Bocelli's ability to bridge classical and contemporary music resonated deeply with the diverse, cosmopolitan audience in the UAE, making him a favourite for repeat visits.