Bovy's 2012 single Theoretical Love was a hit in Asia (All photos: Freya Goossens)
Belgian artist Yannick Bovy is celebrating jazz legend Nat King Cole with a tribute concert at Istana Budaya. The young crooner will perform the king of swing’s most popular hits and some of his original songs.
You have performed in Malaysia many times. What do you miss most about the country when you are away?
I have always loved coming to Malaysia. From my first visit, I immediately felt welcome. I love the people and the great food!
What does Nat King Cole’s music mean to you?
Nat King Cole basically opened the door to a mainstream audience for swing, jazz and big band music because he had it all to appeal to a wide range of fans: wonderful melodies, lyrics and the smoothest voice in the world. Nat King Cole was and still is an inspiration to crooners around the world.
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What are your personal favourite Nat King Cole songs?
So many. When I fall in Love, Mona Lisa and Unforgettable are some of the classics, but while putting this concert together I discovered songs that are not well known such as The Rules of the Road. I’d love to perform them all in the show!
What has been your career highlight so far?
Going outside of Europe, for sure, and having a hit single (Theoretical Love) so early in my career in Asia. In Europe, I had the opportunity to perform for big TV shows and opening for major artists such as Lionel Richie, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga has been amazing.
What are your plans after the tour?
In 2020, I will hit the road with Yannick Bovy Celebrates the Crooners. I’m looking forward to presenting the best songs from Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin and many others.
You are often compared with Michael Bublé. How do you feel about that?
It’s an honour. Michael is an amazing singer and when he comes to Belgium in November, I will attend his concert. But I want to be Yannick Bovy, and have my own sound and repertoire. Over the years, I got more and more involved in writing and recording my albums and that has been very rewarding. I have found my own style.
Catch 'Yannick Bovy Celebrates 100 Years of Nat King Cole' on Oct 4 and 5 at Istana Budaya, Jalan Tun Razak, KL, at 8.30pm. Tickets are priced at RM80, RM150, RM250, Rm380, RM480. Purchase here.
This article first appeared on Sept 30, 2019 in The Edge Malaysia.
