When you mention Engelbert Humperdinck, chances are high that the first song coming to mind is his signature hit: “Release Me.” The 1967 ballad not only catapulted him to international fame but also famously kept The Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever” from reaching No.1 on the UK charts.
But over four decades later, Engelbert surprised fans by revisiting this iconic song – this time, not alone. He chose to reimagine “Release Me” as a duet, and his partner was none other than country music royalty Wynonna Judd.
At first glance, pairing a suave British crooner with a fiery American country singer may seem unconventional – but the result was pure musical alchemy. Their duet, featured on Engelbert’s 2014 collaboration album “Engelbert Calling,” is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
A Duet That Adds Emotional Depth
The original “Release Me” is a plea – a gentleman’s request to end a loveless relationship with dignity. Engelbert’s solo version exudes elegance, longing, and restraint – the pain of a man letting go, albeit reluctantly.
Wynonna’s addition transforms the narrative. Her voice, warm and fierce, introduces a second dimension – the perspective of a woman who is no longer afraid to say, “It’s over.” There is no bitterness, only strength and clarity.
Together, they don’t just sing to each other; they sing with each other – two sides of a heartbreak intertwined. Engelbert brings the melancholy, Wynonna brings the resolve – and the blend is both powerful and poetic.
“Engelbert Calling” – A Passion Project of Collaborations
“Engelbert Calling” was more than just another album – it was a labor of love. A celebration of connections, it featured Engelbert teaming up with artists from various genres to revisit and reimagine songs from his catalog.
From Elton John to Olivia Newton-John, Willie Nelson, and more – the album was star-studded. But the duet with Wynonna Judd on “Release Me” stood out as one of the most emotionally compelling performances.
It wasn’t just about two great voices. It was about two worlds colliding gracefully – British pop balladry and American country soul – and finding perfect harmony.
“Engelbert Calling” – A Passion Project of Collaborations
“Engelbert Calling” was more than just another album – it was a labor of love. A celebration of connections, it featured Engelbert teaming up with artists from various genres to revisit and reimagine songs from his catalog.
From Elton John to Olivia Newton-John, Willie Nelson, and more – the album was star-studded. But the duet with Wynonna Judd on “Release Me” stood out as one of the most emotionally compelling performances.
It wasn’t just about two great voices. It was about two worlds colliding gracefully – British pop balladry and American country soul – and finding perfect harmony.
A New Legacy for an Old Classic
Some songs feel too sacred to touch. But Engelbert and Wynonna proved otherwise – showing that even a classic can be reborn without losing its soul.
Their version of “Release Me” isn’t just a duet – it’s a conversation, a farewell, and a celebration of emotional honesty. It’s proof that great music transcends genres, borders, and generations.