Introduction:
“Absolute Beginner” is a song performed by Engelbert Humperdinck, the British pop and easy listening singer, renowned for his smooth, velvety voice and emotive ballads. While Humperdinck is best known for his iconic hits like “Release Me” and “The Last Waltz,” “Absolute Beginner” is a lesser-known track that reflects his ability to explore a variety of musical styles throughout his long career.
The song itself was originally written and performed by David Bowie, an iconic figure in the world of rock and pop, for the 1986 film Absolute Beginners, which was based on a novel by Colin MacInnes about post-war London in the 1950s. Bowie’s version was widely appreciated and became a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. However, Engelbert Humperdinck’s rendition takes a unique direction from the original.
Engelbert, known for his emotional delivery and romantic songs, likely gravitated toward “Absolute Beginner” because of its deep emotional content and appeal. While Bowie’s version blended elements of rock and jazz, Humperdinck brought a more traditional pop ballad sensibility to the song. His interpretation places emphasis on the lyrics, evoking the raw vulnerability and innocence of someone experiencing love and emotions for the first time. Humperdinck’s version maintains the emotional integrity of the original while catering to his fan base, who appreciate softer, melodic arrangements.
Although Engelbert Humperdinck’s recording of “Absolute Beginner” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of his other well-known hits, it still exemplifies his versatility as a performer. His rendition shows his willingness to take on material outside of his usual repertoire, infusing it with his own vocal warmth and distinct style.
Humperdinck’s career, which has spanned over five decades, is characterized by his ability to interpret and deliver songs with heartfelt emotion, and “Absolute Beginner” stands as an example of how he can bring his signature style to a song originally from a very different musical world. His approach transforms it into a tender, introspective ballad that resonates with his loyal fans and lovers of classic romantic music alike.