- Let The Heartaches Begin
- I'll Never Fall In Love Again
- Play Me
- Summer Wind
- For The Good Times
- Misty
- When I Fall in Love
- You Don't Know Me
- Weekend In New England
- New York State Of Mind
- Joanna
- I Can't Help Falling In Love With You
- He'll Have To Go
- For Once In My Life
- Avenues And Alleyways Duet With Tony Christie (Bonus Track)
Alternative (first) cover:
Album dedication:
"HEROES" is the album I've wanted to make for some time - it salutes/honours some of my all-time musical heroes; legendary performers who have influenced me and entertained millions of people over the years. I've chosen unashamedly old fashioned, romantic songs that have stood the test of time songs that touch on emotions and relationships which are as relevant to listeners today as when they were written.
All the songs I've chosen to record were huge hits in the 50s, 60s, and 70s – many of them were on the soundtrack of my youth and they're all favourites. I grew up hearing Sinatra, Mathis, Jim Reeves, Tony Bennett, Perry Como at home; I bought Manilow, Neil Diamond, Tom Jones, Billy Joel records in my teens and practised their vocal styles and their phrasing; I've had the privilege of meeting and working with many of them and can truly say that my appreciation of these great musicians has grown over the years. I've learned to sing by listening to them and singing along with them; they've taught me how to perform, what makes good song and how studio singing is so entirely different from singing onstage.
To find myself dueting in the studio with one of these heroes, Mr Tony Christie, was sublime, God bless you and thank you sir.
The only difficulty was deciding how to choose fourteen tracks from the huge catalogue of songs written and/or performed by my favourite singers – but I think I've managed it! I hope you'll enjoy the results.
As with anything I do this is a collaborative effort and there are so many people to thank: the musicians, songwriters and arrangers who are listed elsewhere; Nigel, Rob and Paul who, once again, made it a joy to work the long hours we spent in the studio; Callum, it's nearly twenty-five years…you get less for murder! Thank you lovely man. Thanks to Phil and Sarah, Paul and all at Universal, Judy, Andrew. My darling Cath, these songs are as much your choice as mine so we'll split the blame! And last, but absolutely not least, the fans, thank you for your continuing love and support.
Michael Ball 2011
