Many seem to want to compare Paul Potts to the great opera tenors past and present and point out that he is not technically as proficient as they are/were. These observations may be true, they may be opinion, they may be irrelevant seeing how most of the songs on One Chance are NOT from operas though sung in an operatic style. I, for one, couldn't care less how he ranks with opera snobs. I'd bet the majority who bought his album don't care either. Paul Potts' claim to fame is that he delivers a song in such a way that it can move people to tears and make the hair on your arms stand up. This is his greatest talent (though I do also consider him a truely gifted vocalist with a long career ahead of him). The underdog story just makes the whole package that much sweeter. Critics must also keep in mind that this album was rushed together in one month. Personally, I think it is incredible and I would have paid anything to get it. Like many I watched the BGT Youtube video dozens of times. His performance of Nessun Dorma truely affected me and on that I bought one chance. I love most of it and am simply overwhelmed by other parts. I could pass on "everybody hurts" and "my way" simply because I think they are cheesy songs. The jewel on this album is "Nella Fantasia". It is simply ......well, I don't know......there don't seem to be adjectives sufficient to express how powerful this song is. It's a great song on it's own, but Paul's delivery takes it to a completely different level. They say he sold two million copies of "one Chance". I honestly believe that if he had sung Nella Fantasia on the BGT Final (as opposed to doing Nessun Dorma again) that he would have sold 4-5 million copies of One Chance. Buy this album.....opera fan or not (90% of the time I listen to hardcore metal like Slayer!!). I can't wait to see what this gifted giant brings us next. The bus is not stopping any time soon, Paul. Enjoy the ride.

This was a gift to my Brother.We like Paul Potts. He sings from the heart.
But this particular album is too repetative.It would have been nice if he changed the rythm a little bit.
In other words a mixture of different rythms.It gets a bit monotonous.But he is a great singer,considering that he had no formal training.I like him.

Thank you,
Suja

Like millions of other people (apparently), I'm a sucker for a good "ugly duckling" story. And Paul Potts' story is certainly that--forget the fact that that very story was rather cynically played upon by Simon Cowell and the producers of BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT. Turns out that Paul did have more training and stage experience than we might have first been led to believe. He had major roles in amateur productions and had even studied in Italy for a time where he had occasion to sing before Pavarotti.

The core of the tale WAS true, however. He had certainly had a few moments of (amateur level) glory before he autioned for Cowell and Co., but he still wound up back at Carphone Warehouse. And even if the programs judges knew how well Potts could sing in advance (and pretty much feigned astonishment for the camera), one thing that clearly was NOT faked was Paul's awkwardness and timidity onstage. Until he opened his mouth to sing, that is.

Great story. Great television. I watched that danged YouTube clip for weeks on end, with my eyes welling up each time . So why do I find myself so disappointed in the CD? Well, as almost everyone has acknowledged, it was something of a rush job. It's no secret that he was recording it within a week of winning the prize. And it shipped in little more than a month after the contest. How much thought could have really gone into such a project? And how much care?

There is absolutely nothing surprising or inspired about the song selection. Of course, it was understood that "Nessun Dorma" and "Time To Say Goodbye," the two numbers performed on the show and seen around the world on YouTube, would have to be included on the CD. They're both stirring, although those who were quick to point out that his version of "Dorma" proved that he was no Pavarotti seem to have a point. Here and elsewhere his vocal does seem a bit pinched at points. And is it just me, or is there a hint of an echo effect here and there (throughout the album, I mean)?

Of course, Paul Potts' appeal is not solely due to his mastery of technique (and realistically, at his age, no matter how much training he gets now, he will almost certainly never reach Pavarotti level). However brilliantly he pulled off his televised performances, though, it seems clear that he will have to face the fact that the recording studio is a completely different--and much less forgiving--environment. That's not to say it can't be done, but he will probably need different, and more sensitive handlers than the Cowell crew.

And fresh material wouldn't be a bad idea at all.

I'm by no means a musical snob, so when I talk about Potts' limitations, I do so with a lot of hope that such an engaging performer can find a way to transcend them. I'm often amazed at how precisely certain critics and scholars can analyze the strengths and weaknesses in a given singer's voice, and I can't pretend to even begin to do that. But I do notice some here, some which you might expect (stuggling a bit with the high notes) and some I don't understand at all (why are his most awkward moments in the English language songs, for instance).

I'm not sure that Paul Potts will ever be able to carve out a career in the classical/operatic world. That would likely require a lot of catch up training, and time's a-wasting on that front. On the other hand, it would be disappointing to see him stick to the "classical-lite" of a Bocelli or Brightman. How many versions of "Time To Say Goodbye" does anyone need to hear anyway?

So I wish Paul Potts a lot of luck in his future endeavors. I don't begrudge him his talent show entree into the big time. (How else was it going to happen?) But I do hope the industry doesn't just chew him up and spit him out. There's music in this man's soul, and it'd be nice to see him have a chance to make it.

I love this cd. It is not the world's best but after a long day it is a pleasure to listen to. O Holy Night brings me to tears it is so beautiful. God gave us a great gift in Paul Potts.

....... NETFLIX......AMAZON....are MY gold standard..companys like shell are ruining what used to be THE AMERICAN WAY...remember .. MA BELL..they were the BEST...last june i made a 100.00 payment to SHELL OIL COMPANY..it was taken out of my account days later..they said they never got it ??????????????phone CALLS ect .bank SENT THEM PAPERWORK...an phone calls.....it went over FIVE months as ...UNPAID.. i do NOT STOP AT A SHELL STATION anymore....please AMAZON.....i believe in the name .....AMAZON.......you are my prime rib..an my trust..john locke ..san diego calif .. usa AN YES ...PAUL POTTS..your dream can come true....the american way......god bless britain....love ya

Paul Potts has an amazing voice - it brings tears to my eyes to listen to him. He really connects with his audience. Waiting for his next CD.

I've never enjoyed opera but Paul Potts made me a opera lover. Know you will go on to do great things. I give you 6 STARS! Ruth Watts

Great CD from an admirable man. I first heard him in youtube during his first audition for the 'Britain's Got Talent' show. I was very touched by his humility and in awe of his talent. I find his voice very soothing. There are a couple of songs that I do not really like otherwise I would have rated the CD 5 stars.

I've never been impressed with any singer that could sing "the right way". All Technical Blah-Blah and BS (sorry). It's all about singing with the heart, and being able to move people so deeply, that tears start flowing. THAT's REAL singing. Pavorotti never moved me to tears. This guy did. Music is not only hearing with your ears... it has a lot to do with feeling as well. Real singers sing from the heart and are therefore also able to touch the hearts of others as well. Not a mystery, just a common fact. May Paul Potts keep singing like this always, and doesn't loose himself in technical voice gymnastics and his songs ending up flat and heartless.

There are three different groups of people in this world. The first are those who are born great. The second group are those who greatness was bestowed on them. The last group are people who worked very hard to become great. Paul Potts is one of those who was born great with a voice that i can only describe as legendary. It is a sad thing to hear people discredit him like that. This singer is on his way to become the next Luciano Pavarotti.

I saw him sing on the "talent" show, I was amazed just like the audience was & yes I got goose bumps too.

Coming from a family of opera singers, I listened to operatic voices all my life. Paul Potts is a true talent. Hope we hear more from this young man.

This is such an enjoyable CD--the music is quite familiar. Much of the music is in Italian--but absolutely fantanstic. Have shared the music with friends and they are also purchasing this CD

I'm ordering Paul Potts' CD for my daughter and myself without even hearing the soundbytes.

Robert Byrd, you wrote beautifully what I've had difficulty putting into words even to myself. I too was overcome with tears and emotion, as was my daughter, when we first saw Paul Potts' performance on youtube the night the world discovered him. I'm still at a loss to know exactly why he touches us so. Is it because this humble, unassuming shy man had courage and because of it, will stand on the great opera stages of the world, entertain maybe even inspire the bored elite, but most importantly, represent us, the common man who dreams of better things. Is it that he gives us, the little people, hope for a better day?

I pray Potts' fame and fortune bring him and his family joy and happiness.

Paul Potts has a lovely voice---but needs more of a repetoire. To include two Christmas hymns on his CD was not what I was expecting.

I would not have purchased this CD if I'd had a chance to listen to it first. I expected more songs, and wish the Christmas songs were not on it.
Danielle Garland

This is a beautiful CD. Potts' voice is superb and the songs he sings are varied and many are familiar. Very relaxing.

My husband listened to this C.D. three days straight when we received it. He really enjoyed it.

I put this CD in all the time... I'm very impressed with Paul Potts' voice, and find him very soothing to listen to. Thanks to "Britain's Got Talent" for discovering this special man, and to Simon Cowell for making it possible for him to put out a CD showcasing his talent. Potts is such a nice, gentle man. Try this CD; you won't be disappointed!

I am certainly not an opera buff, but I saw Paul Potts on the Oprah Show and ordered this CD. FANTASTIC!!!! He has one of the most naturally beautiful voices I've had the pleasure of hearing. He just might make a convert of me! I highly recommend this CD to anyone who might be an expert in this genre or a novice like myself.

I believe Paul Potts will become one of the foremost tenor in the world of opera.

This CD is a great collection of songs by a man with a most amazing voice. His version of Nessun Dorma is the best I've ever heard.

I can't believe this guy was hiding in the middle of middle class world selling cell phones with the voice of an angel. I'm not really an opera officianado, but once I heard his amazing voice I had to hear more. I could've gone with out the 2 bonus tracks, since they're Christmas songs, but the tracks were soul inspiring and beautiful.

I first saw the YouTube video of his audition on TV before Simon Cowell and others in England. I was blown away as were the judges and audience. When I saw that he had a CD I ordered right away. It's wonderful. I was amazed that I found him to be as good as Michael Crawford singing from Phantom!

Paul Potts CD is wonderful, fast shipping, and a good price, most certainly will order again from amazon.com
thanks.

I was absolutely captivated by the YouTube performance and watched it about 20 times. From when Paul humbly almost apologetically walked out on stage saying "I want to sing opera" to Simon's mouth gapping open in astonishment at the sweet sounds that came out of Paul's mouth. We all love an underdog making it but this guy truly has talent to offer.
I have to smile at the critics remarks. Maybe everything isn't perfect but all I can say is I love his voice and am throughly enjoying this CD. I wish Paul Potts huge success in all future endeavors. May God continue to bless your voice and life!

Wow!!! A number of months ago someone emailed me the link to a YouTube video that showed Paul Potts' first appearance on "Britain's Got Talent" I was captivated as soon as he started singing, then got goosebumps and then got teary eyed. I thought to myself: "What the.....?? This is Opera, dude.....you hate opera!" Or at least I thought did...or was supposed to. No "manly man" would like Opera!! Paul Potts has changed my mind.

As I've grown older, I've embraced a broader expanse of musical genres. But until now Opera was boring. Until now. Gotta quit writing now and go put Paul Potts back on. Oh yeah, I purchased two additional Opera samplers from Amazon.

Paul Potts is solely responsible for bringing opera to the attention of the "every man".
From the moment he sings the first note of Nessun Dorma he has hooked us all. The every day guy with the beautiful voice.
The CD is really good.
When Potts sang on Britain's Got Talent he reached every member of the audience. They cheered, they cried, they rose and they all felt the same emotion: pure joy. The CD does not disappoint.

I bought this CD because I saw a YouTube of Paul and I was enchanted with
his voice. I love this CD and I was will buy any more he makes. He sings
like an angel.

Paul Potts has a great voice and with more training and practice, he could be an even better performer. I like Paul--he has potential.

Unfortunately, the engineers who are in charge of the sound on this CD put together what sounds like a compressed, flat dud of a CD. Sure, it has the clarity from the wonders of modern recording, but they managed to suck the life right out of this recording.

Instead of capturing the softness, the loudness, the intensity of the musicians and voices, where we should have a *dynamic* sounding CD, that can naturally inspire the listeners, we have one big, flat sound with a couple of pathetic *artificial* adjustments in volume. When people sing, or play instruments, they naturally go from a soft sound, to a loud sound when their inner being tells them to. We don't need some hack in the studio taking that artistry from the artists. If I wanted a flat recording, I would have gone with MP3s. If I wanted compression, I would have gone with MP3s.

It's garbage like this that's made me given up on modern music CDs. It has nothing to do with Paul Potts, but the engineers who no longer have a clue what good sound is all about, and the non-music loving executives who in many cases are making them do this.

The record companies say they're losing money. Good. They've lost major music buyers like myself, and I would be ecstatic if they went out of business. Let the music and sound lovers be in charge again.

And Paul, smile on your next CD.

At first I was skeptical. Then I was hesitant. Then all the other excuses came to mind why I should not buy the CD. But then logic took over and I remembered how good he sang Nessun Dorma. I decided to get the CD and I never regretted it. My wife actually took the CD for herself and we fight for who gets to keep it!

My favorite song is his version of O holy night. I am just amazed at the power, clarity and beauty of this Welshman's voice. A humble, kind man who I am waiting for more of his releases! Paul Potts is my new favorite Opera singer. Andrea Bochelli is too Nasal. Pavaroti to grandiose. Poll Potts is sublime...or as everyone puts it...a new polished diamond in the rough.

This man was given a gift.Those of you who think he needs refinement need to try to sing like him. He brings tears to the eyes of someone who can appreciate music, trained or not. Get a life jealousy will get you no where. he is great.

A friend sent me the YouTube segment of Paul winning the 'Britain's Got Talent' show and I knew I wanted to hear more. I am not a major fan of opera music but I like it now and then and this cd by Paul is definitely one I will listen to often. I hope he does more.

What were they thinking to put out an album like this from the man who wants to sing opera? This is an odd assortment of songs with only Nessun Dorma from opera. And what's with singing pop songs in Italian? Did they not have enough opera songs that Paul was good at so that they had to take other songs that he knew and make them sound like opera? Then to include the hymns (O Holy Night and Silent Night), which Paul does okay with, but have been done far better by many singers. The worst stinker on the album is the Spanish version of My Way. Also Paul has an interesting way of pronouncing MUSIC. He sings "Moo-Sick", rather that "Mew-Sick" as most of us say it in the song Music of the Night. Paul has a way of going deep into the soul (or something like that) and bringing people to tears with his songs. (Yes, me too.) He is not the best singer, but with that way of getting to people in a very deep way, he will succeed. Give the man 10 stars, but this recording doesn't rate much more than 3 or 4. It's a shame and I truly hope this is not the "one chance" for Paul Potts to shine. I honestly believe he will shine if they do a good job on future albums.

this guy has an amazing voice. I bought this CD and I still get chills every time I listen to it. It's BEAUTIFUL - you'll see!

My mother requested this CD by Paul Potts and loves it very much. He does have a great voice and seems to sing not just as an action in itself but is singing with enlivened passion and joy behind it. I leave this good review on behalf of my mother who loves Paul Potts' beautiful voice.