Engelbert Humperdinck, known by fans as “The Humper,” will be serenading the crowd Friday at John Ascuaga’s Nugget.
Born Arnold George Dorsey, he began to study saxophone at the age of 11 and was singing on stage by the age of 17. He became very popular on the UK music circuit until he contracted tuberculosis, which silenced him for six months and nearly ended his career.
Healed and determined to make a comeback as a strong, dynamic performer, his manager suggested the new name Engelbert Humperdinck. It was just outrageous enough to be memorable and thus was born the soon-to-be legend. The name comes from the 19th century Austrian composer who wrote “Hansel & Gretel.”
“The Humper,” as he is affectionately known by fans, has become a legend in the international music industry. In his 40-plus year career, he has sold more than 150 million records, earned four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, 63 gold and 24 platinum records and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Recently he has joined in elite group of musical artists, such as Tony Bennett and Burt Bacharach, who have crossed over successfully to strike a new chord with a younger generation in addition to their core audiences. Humperdinck has appeared on several MTV programs, including two appearances on “MTV Beach House,” “Chilling with the Weaze” and “Oddville.”
Humperdinck has recorded everything from the most romantic ballads to the platinum-selling theme song “Lesbian Seagull” for the latest Beavis and Butthead movie. His remarkable voice and extraordinary talent has endeared him to millions of fans around the globe with the MTV generation having just “discovered” what a magnificent musician the rest of the world has celebrated for decades.
Tickets to see Humperdinck start at $52 and are available online at www.janugget.com or by phone at 356-3300.
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