Josh Groban

About 10 years ago, I "discovered" Josh Groban.  Not literally of course, I should add that I think it's David Foster who has those honours, still, I certainly happened upon the voice and that music around 10 years ago.  I had no idea that the voice was coming out of a 22 year old though.  I quickly shared my discovery with some of my sister's and my cousin, and that musical combination helped us through some tough times.

Mr G has performed in the UK on a number of occasions but it was always either in London or in small venues and getting tickets proved impossible. 

About 8 weeks ago, J text me in work; "Josh Groban in Manchester, in June, what do you think?"

"Tickets would probably be expensive and we wouldn't get any, anyway."

J: "That's what I thought you'd say, we're in AA12 & 13, June 17th!"

I couldn't believe it.

All the way to the venue, including stopping off en route for something to eat, every few sentences were punctuated with, "I can't believe we're going to see him."

J, who is something of an expert at getting great seats at this kind of thing, was a bit disappointed with the AA's, but we both agreed that we would stand in the car park to hear him sing and AA's were just fine.

The seats were actually great, we were in the stalls, I'd guess about half way back.  I think there was a 12 piece band, no opening act, at 8.30pm, Mr G appeared on stage, strode on, no fuss, no fireworks, straight into the first number.

I instantly had tears in my eyes, not only was this voice, one of the most beautiful I had ever heard, but it was powerful, sweet, expressive and actually sounded more amazing live than on any album.  It's the first time I've heard any artist sound better live.  I didn't know that was possible.

I thought we must be about an hour in but we were 90 minutes into the show and about to say goodnight and then have an encore with; "You Raise Me Up."

J and I sang all the way home.  Even today, still can't quite believe that we got to see him.  Incidentally, as well as appearing very down to earth, a bit of a goofball and a great drummer, he seems totally oblivious to just how amazing he is.