Michael Buble

Grammy nominated, critically acclaimed crooner Michael Buble is in many ways a throwback to old time singers such as Frank Sinatra. His smooth voice, however, is infused with a modern twist all its own, and it is this unique blend of the past and present which makes him such a fascinating and talented musical act.

Michael Buble was born September 9, 1975 in Burnaby, British Columbia. Exposed to music from an early age, Buble spent hours listening to his grandfather’s records, which were predominantly in the jazz genre. Buble credits his grandfather for much of his musical inspiration, introducing Buble to a style of music that his generation largely overlooked. Buble credits his exposure to the Mills Brothers as the moment he realized he wanted to sing professionally.

With the encouragement of his grandfather, Buble entered and subsequently won a talent contest held in Vancouver, BC. When the committee found out he was underage, however, he was disqualified. Undeterred, Buble entered yet another talent contest, the Canadian Youth Talent Search. At seventeen, he secured first prize.

Bolstered by this affirmation, Buble pursued his musical career by appearing as Elvis Presley in the Red Rock Diner road show as well as a leading role in Forever Swing. During this time, he also released three albums from an independent label.

Gaining more exposure, Buble wrote two original songs for the film Here’s to Life starring Eric McCormack, Kim Hunter, and Ossie Davis. Both songs were nominated for Genie Awards. Through a series of chance encounters and demo tape handoffs, Buble was eventually introduced to David Foster, the record executive behind singing sensation Josh Groban. Foster signed Buble to his label immediately and began work on his debut album.

Containing covers from Van Morrison, Lou Rawls, the Bee Gees, among others, Buble’s self-titled album was released in 2003 and quickly went platinum. He also dabbled in film, including cameos in Duets opposite Gwyneth Paltrow, Maria Bello, Paul Giamatti, and Huey Lewis.

Buble’s second album, It’s Time, proved an even bigger sensation. Incorporating covers of the Beatles and Ray Charles, the album also featured original songs such as the smash hit, “Home.” At the 2006 Juno Awards (a rough equivalent of the American Grammy Awards), Buble walked away with the most wins.

In addition to raw talent, much of Buble’s success can be credited to his manager, Bruce Allen, who also helped make stars out of Martina McBride and Bryan Adams.

Reaching the pop demographic, Buble appeared on American Idol singing “Call Me Irresponsible” in 2007. Joking with host Ryan Seacrest, Buble appeared every bit the accessible, suave pop star.

Breaking the hearts of many devoted fans, Buble became engaged to his girlfriend Debbie Timuss in 2004. Although Timuss was the inspiration behind his romantic single, “Home,” the relationship dissolved in late 2005. Not long after, he met English actress Emily Blunt with whom he is currently dating.

Buble now resides in Vancouver, BC.