Russell Watson

The genial British singer has enjoyed an enduring popularity since his first hit album The Voice dominated the charts in 2000.

-  Michael Beek

His story has taken him from working men's clubs to some of the world's biggest stages, and while he's enjoyed plenty of hits, he's overcome some heavy knocks to be where he is today. He is currently on a tour of UK cathedrals and 'magnificent buildings'.

I grew up in Salford, Mum was a stay-at-home mum, Dad worked 12-hour night shifts, which meant that predominantly I was listening to Mum's favourite songs. She was into everything from Cliff Richard to John Denver, but she was a big classical fan as well. There was one chap that she listened to in particular, who I think probably slotted into the 'crossover' category, and his names was JAMES LAST. She had a couple of albums, but she had The Best Of... on repeat. There was one piece in particular, Einsamer Hirte, which I think means 'The Lonely Shepherd; I remember listening to that as a kid and thinking it was very beautiful.