Aretha Franklin "Nessun Dorma" Liveᴴᴰ (Grammy Awards)

SUBSCRIBE
/ @ipdeejay
#ArethaFranklin #NessunDorma #Pavarotti #Puccini #GrammyAwards
No sleep, no sleep
You pure, o, Princess
In your cold room
Look at the stars that tremble
Of love and hope
But my mystery is closed in me
No one will know my name
No, no, I'll say it on your mouth
When the light shines
And my kiss will break the silence
That makes you mine
(No one will know his name)
(And we must, alas, die, die)
Vanish, o night
Set, stars
Set, stars
I'll win at dawn
I will win
I will win

[@joncaju]

Original lyrics: Nessun dorma Nessun dorma Tu pure, o Principessa Nella tua fredda stanza Guardi le stelle Che tremano d'amore e di speranza Ma il mio mistero è chiuso in me Il nome mio nessun saprà No, no, sulla tua bocca lo dirò Quando la luce splenderà Ed il mio bacio scioglierà il silenzio Che ti fa mia (Il nome suo nessun saprà E noi dovrem, ahimè, morir, morir) Dilegua, o notte Tramontate, stelle! Tramontate, stelle! All'alba vincerò! Vincerò! Vincerò!! English translation (Aretha Franklin rendition): No sleep No sleep You too, O, Princess In your cold room Look at the stars That tremble love And hope Within my heart my secret lies And what his name is none shall known No, no, till on the heart I confess it Soon as morning lights shall dawn Oh Prince, then shall My kisses break the silence That makes thee mine (his name no will know And we shall, alas, die) Disappear, O night Set, Stars! Set, Stars! Allalba won! I will win! I will win!!

[@catharinenoel]

My chills keep coming every time I listen to this unforgettable rendition. My she Rest In Peace.

[@rnhealer6044]

Thank you so much for the translations. I love Nessun Dorma and have listened to the world's greatest tenors sing it. For years I wanted to know what that gorgeous song was saying in English.

[@rudolfulloa]

Man thank you for this , never new the lyrics

[@barbaradentith1886]

Absolutely Brilliant needs nothing more.. Superb in the film with Bryan Cranstone Upside Sto

[@jondavwal13]

Nessun dorma means nobody sleeps or nobody sleep.

[@callystarr]

So many people do not even understand, that she never rehearsed with this orchestra, or the choir, all she had was her ear and her voice. Any musician would know how extremely Special for us to watch a true artist in their form, you could see how she started out tentative even the producer talked about this, and how she got stronger as she got more comfortable. Hell this might not even be in the same key, that she had performed in before. Everything from top to bottom about this performance is breathtaking

[@lsimmons3086]

Still gives me chills

[@dwayneduncan8547]

I wholeheartedly agree bro. Aretha was in every sense the queen of soul, regal and in a class as a vocalist on a level no one can ever ever attain. Her legacy is majestic. Rest in peace Aretha 👑🌹Much RESPECT

[@ChosenLove7]

She was🙏🏾❤🙏🏾true one of God's children...miss her...May she R.I.P.🙏🏾❤💋💯🎈⚘

[@dpowell7509]

Just to be able and know the lyrics added to what you said…amazeballs

[@ChosenLove7]

She was a Natural talent lady, God Given🙏🏾🎈⚘❤we miss her. May she R.I.P.

[@MrSA1829]

She did this for Pavarotti. Blessed be, now they are both gone. Rest in Heaven.

[@marrallo]

@Maynard Runkle rude

[@marrallo]

@Maynard Runkle oh well,yes

[@felicirascooley1455]

@Maynard Runkle its original of Aretha the natural woman no fuzz, no artificielle just her

[@bradhuskers]

This was hideous. Rancid tone. An abomination.

[@jeffringer236]

@@bradhuskers sthu

[@jaebee9308]

Can we take a minute and give that Maestro his due? The Queen was conducting HIM. 🤣 He had to watch her, anticipate her and make sure the orchestra stayed with her. Bravo, Sir.

[@mcdonoghrahloh459]

Do they ever!

[@mena419]

She Was Amazing To Fill In For Pavarotti At Last Minute When He Was Sick And Aretha Was Totally ❤❤Magnificant..

[@donnaanddavid1]

I won a trip to the Grammy awards that year. It was the most incredible experience I ever had. So blessed to have seen this performance live. It still makes me cry!

[@MLMLW]

Oh wow! I bet you won't ever forget this moment. Simply amazing! There are no words.

[@kayever1701]

I am reduced to a ball of tears every time I watch this video, I can't imagine how special it was to see it live....

[@royalblu6412]

How long was the fanfare? It seems the crowd was going crazy

[@bantouchissi7956]

How lucky you was!!❤❤❤❤

[@rbeeydwan4479]

👏🏿 🎉❤❤😊❤❤❤🌹🌹🦋💕💫💥✨️✨️🌹🔥🔥😊🔥🔥🥳🌹

[@theonlyrocha]

and she casually walked off with two hands full of wigs she snatched from everybody's head. iconic.

[@firelord_ozai]

😂😂😂😂 facts

[@iago07]

DEAD 🪦

[@nineomite]

Fun fact: Aretha took over on 15 minutes notice for a sick Pavarotti (a deep-voiced male tenor) which is why Aretha had to go so low at times - this is not a key she normally sings in, and the band/choir didn't have time to change keys. The fact that those low notes are maybe the most goosebump-inducing part of this performance... I mean you just have to hail the Queen, don't you? The lady was simply the greatest singer that has ever lived.

[@atourdeforce]

The key change thing is the one part I dont buy, Because changing key is the easiest thing ever, you do it blindfolded, its not like you are changing the melody, or changing the EXPECTED chords. For example if something is originally in the key of A maj then for example the first two chords you might play are B, and E, if you switch to the key of C maj, then your first two chords you play adjusting for the key change would be D and G. It could be any chords, im just giving arbitrary chords to show how when you know a chord in a key, you also know the corresponding chord for diffrent keys. There isnt a musician on that stage what wouldnt be able to change to a diffrent key in literally the blink of an eye. So the fact it was played in the orignal key, can only mean Aretha wanted it played in that key, maybe to prove a point or show she could do it. But the narrative that they didnt have time to change keys is just flat out false, which then makes me wonder how accurate the rest of the story is, like did she really get 15 mins heads up and no rehersals, I very very very much doubt it. notice she sang half the song in english and half in italian, it would take more than 15 mins just to learn the italian versian, let alone translate half in english and then try figure out the best phrasing to suit the english words because the phrasing for italian words will be completely diffrent. For example, you sing the word Car in Italian its Macchina, in englsh its obviously prounced car, those are two complety diffrent words to sing and phrase, you dont just get up on stage and try fit english words over a melody designed for Italian words etc etc. I could point out a million other things that would indicate this story is just total nonsense, but i think ive more than proved my point already, Aretha was amazing and a one off ledgend, one of the greatest ever performers/musicians you really dont need to make up stories to prove her greatness.

[@Vejur9000]

Amen.

[@bennyboy1633]

Fun fact. A low voiced tenor is a contradiction in terms.

[@TheBlobabob]

@@atourdeforce She had performed the song 2 days earlier at a different event. So she already knew the song. She had NOT rehearsed with this orchestra or choir. Don’t over think it.

[@hrthrhs]

Uh no. I don't think it's possible to say any one person is "simply the greatest singer" of this time or another. Don't get excited.

[@MB-hv6hw]

I love that transition towards the end. She’s not a trained operatic singer, she’s the greatest gospel singer of all time and she’s like let’s fucken party with this finish. Incredible.

[@timbredan3476]

She did sing gospel for sure l, but she was the queen of SOUL music

[@bibbiana4Lyfe]

Still, she swelled her voice to a rousing crescendo just as Pavarotti would've

[@YTAliasJoeCool]

@@bibbiana4Lyfe with all respect not at all, as Pavarotti sings it in one breath and she took 6 for it.

[@forgoogletotrack7181]

@@YTAliasJoeCool So? She was a soul/gospel singer, not a trained opera singer.

[@carriemusic880]

She did train opera.

[@haze1719]

I remembered this.. Mr. Pavorotti fell ill and she filled in for him.... I can remember as a teenage black girl watching this I was so messmerized and excited... I started crying and my Dad put his arm on my shoulder and said Music touches everyone in different ways no matter what language it's in... I've never forgotten this performance from the first time I saw it... This performance is so special to me.... Thx Aretha for showing me that there's nothing you can't accomplish..... Truly the Queen of Soul..

[@icaruscrane8846]

There''s an alternative background story. Some say that Parovotti decided that singing at the Grammy was beneath his 'stature' and simply decided to quit. Thus, giving the stage to Aretha, who actually knew the song. I hope Pavorotti felt regret for being such a jerk.

[@lourdessantiesteban3187]

THE QUEEN!!!!!!

[@diondinges]

Made me cry

[@jpsned]

❤

[@ccooper5242]

I was watching the Grammys that night and to have watched this magical moment in musical history made me cry as well….she was and will always be to me, The Queen of Music!

[@TTony-tu6dm]

A piece written for a male tenor and she knocked it out of the park as a last minute replacement. Incredible

[@Eddemnity]

⚾️

[@tom_something]

@@Eddemnity I can hear this emoji.

[@achanwahn]

​@@tom_something 😆

[@PleaseDontShoveMeUpYours]

The moment Aretha invented Opera Soul will forever go down in history as one of the greatest contributions to modern music. May she rest in eternal peace singing with Pavarotti.

[@pmjhns]

Thanks to the Maestro for giving us the opportunity to hear it. I believe he wanted the world to hear what he heard at the luncheon for the Grammys.

[@kyser3ify]

@@pmjhns yeah he wasn't sick at all, he was Staning out backstage

[@willybeama1]

Opera soul.

[@carolyndarley1045]

New term to go down in history "Opera Soul"!! You, my friend are a genius!

[@tyjonpittman8641]

I wouldn't say she invented it, she just sounded amazing in the genre, but I would give the credit of the invention of soul opera to Jackie Wilson tbh.

[@braviafeed]

Quite possibly the greatest female vocalist of the 20th century.

[@ducatarina8310]

Of ALl Time

[@eagleswing44]

Bravo!!! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@AdrianMunch]

Longevity is what makes an entertainer great.

[@vilmaoliveira6851]

Concordo com você.

[@jhadebredenkamp97]

Stop reaching. Even Aretha herself admitted the best of all time was Whitney❤

[@forgoogletotrack7181]

I don't know why some people are surprised that Aretha Franklin could sing an operatic piece spontaneously. Her voice was elastic and she had power and range and could adapt when it needed to.

[@firelord_ozai]

You said it best 👏🏾

[@bohlalenchabeleng1370]

Her voice was very elastic.

[@TeaReesa26]

I know everyone wants to talk about that ending. But can we give some appreciation to those low notes? Those effortless, smooth drops? That is not easy to do, and she did it so beautifully. It makes my alto heart warm and happy.

[@georgeetnel8234]

Beautiful just beautiful ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@nineomite]

She had to go SO low (that it gives one goosebumps) in part because she took the song on 15 minutes notice and sang it with a band/choir prepared for Pavarotti, a deep-voiced tenor - who had to bow out sick at the last moment. This is HIS natural key, not Aretha's. She's just the best there ever was imo.

[@ymcghee40]

The low notes!!!!!💯💯💯

[@danielcalderon4691]

She went from Soprano to Baritone real quick 🔥

[@jomo1181]

Agree 💯

[@Marilyn-np6ls]

Opera is the most difficult genre of music to sing. To see her cross over and kill it as an untrained opera singer, but as a phenomenal soul singer is pure magic.

[@7u655]

Marilyn Mills thats like saying classical piano is harder then jazz, IT IS NOT! They are two different beautiful genres of music. I might add that jazz can translate into classical but not vice versa. Hip hop can translate into ballet but not vice versa!

[@richardwhitten2633]

I was living in Atlanta and watching the Grammys with 2 friends. We had no idea what was coming. When Aretha finished singing, we all turned, looked at each other in shock, then stood up clapping and cheering. The people in the apartment next door started beating on the walls because we were so loud. True story. Never forgot it. Glad I can experience the performance again any time I want to.

[@svalentine4667]

Sherard They definitely can translate both ways lol.

[@pmjhns]

I think the Maestro wanted people to hear her, He had caught her singing it a few days before the Grammy Awards. A very soulful performance. He may have felt inadequate. She was the Queen of Soul. She was singing from the heart at that performance. She changed "mouth" to "heart," too.

[@politereminder6284]

@@pmjhns That's a strange thing to do. Also, there is no way Pavarotti felt inadequate singing this song. He was famous for it. I honestly think he was giving his voice a much needed rest. Singing is athleticism. One must take care not to break the instrument.

[@brooklynbuglet]

She didn’t rehearse or was even supposed to perform that nights but Pavarotti trusted her with the piece and that shows incredible faith in her skill as a musician. Stunning 🤩

[@icaruscrane8846]

Pavarotti had nothing to do with it (except for backing out).

[@perfischer1033]

Not true. She had time to prepare.

[@icaruscrane8846]

@@perfischer1033 You can't become an opera singer overnight. So, how much time did she have?

[@Bubbles-od2tv]

@@icaruscrane8846 Didn't Sting say in his intro that she had just sung it 2 days before?

[@thihal123]

She had time to rehearse. It’s just a made up myth to hype up even further situation that she has only 15 minutes to prepare. Think about it. Pavarotti didn’t just step out suddenly. He gave notice much earlier than that.

[@Emily967]

Celine’s reaction ❤️ Songs are meant to be sung. Doesn’t matter by whom or how. And she SANG that song ❤️

[@karengray8618]

CELINE, WAS A SATANIC WORSHIPPER OF EVIL, HIGH LEVEL AND CHILD DOER AND WAS EXECUTED AFTER *US NAVY JAG TRIBUNAL* FOR CRIMES TO HUMANITY.. CRIMES TO HUMANITY TRAFFICKING CHILDREN HAS A PRESIDENTAL EXECUTIVE ORDER OF DEATH.. 90 % OF THE CELEBRITIES ARE EXECUTED, FACT! FULL INFO WILL BE RELEASED SOON. WWG1WGA!

[@karengray8618]

NOT SURE, BUT I THINK A. FRANKLIN TOO..

[@treehugger2397]

As a 100% Italian lady I am very protective of this song but in Ms Aretha’s capable hands, oh my! Puccini meets First Lady of soul! Brava singnora cantante Brava!

[@treehugger2397]

@Dioioegod haha. Thanks for the laugh.

[@treehugger2397]

@Dioioegod haha at my age twerking is out of the question. The rest of your comment makes no sense to me. Firstly, I wasn’t born in the “USA” I came to the U S in the 1970’s from Roma, Italy. I learned a lot of things from my friends in Jamaica, Queens NY including the LOVE of MS ARETHA FRANKLIN. As for the McDonald empire what does that even mean? Are you talking about the burgers or the president? NEITHER of which I endorse.

[@treehugger2397]

@Dioioegod howdee, thanks for your response. To answer your question, I am 100 % Italian. Roman to be exact as both my parents are from the same town in Rome, called “ Veroli “ it’s in the Lazio region of Rome. I used to be so jealous of the kids who could say they were Irish, German some French for good measure. I always felt I was very boring just being Italian and not even mixed Italian just plain Roman. I grew up in the Italian culture at home, very strict, you could imagine the rumors going around like my father and brother had shot guns from being in “ the family “ bc of this I NEVER got asked out on dates not that I was allowed to go anyway. Lol. So now I’ve forgotten the point of our conversation. Lol. Stay Well. P.S. I make you honorary Italian. I love London, never been but studied English Literature for six years at Uni. Taught it in High School.

[@Morgue12free]

@@treehugger2397 You both seem like very wise and kind people. I enjoyed reading through this thread :)

[@onewoman4274]

BRAVA INDEED!

[@rlvixen]

Celine was like “biiish yessss! Yessssss!!!!” 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@Tom-dg5zp]

3:40 I can’t count how many times I’ve watched/listened to this run. It gives me goosebumps every time you can FEEL the joy

[@BeautifulSamaria]

Me too!!!🥹🥹🥹

[@brndmccowan]

I continue to watch every chance I get. It puts joy in my heart.

[@Eddierockification]

Anyone else find themselves breathless and with tears in their eyes at the end? She really did that.

[@thegadflygang5381]

Butcher Puccini? Yes, she certainly did. What an abortion

[@christinatweet6580]

Yes, yes, yes, of course!!

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

Yes, one thousand times Yes

[@mmjhcb]

Yes, I cried because this was so damn bad.

[@Eddierockification]

@@mmjhcb as if you could do better than her lol

[@glenn212now]

I am old enough to remember this. She stepped in at the last minute when Luciano Pavorotti got sick, and it became a huge entertainment event. There aren't many stars around who are this brave. Some critics whined about her phrasing and pronunciation of the Italian, but frankly, all opera singers massacre the language because they're trying to hit those high notes. This is one of the best performances in the history of the Grammys. I can't even count how many times I've watched this. It always lifts me up. It's not everyday you see other singers so blown away. I always love Faith Hill's tearful face and Celine's obvious adoration. Stunning.

[@canndouglas]

Exactly! Lol, they're never clear when their octaves get too high.

[@racky2227]

I don’t care about her pronunciation or phrasing. The notes that she hit just made me get chills and made my heart soar. I have watched this video too many times to count. I love Queen Aretha! We all miss her!

[@bulldogbrower6732]

However, Aretha was classically trained in opera as well. This wasn’t her first rodeo.

[@tomhecht6068]

She did it Aretha Frankin's way. Wow. I love how she milked the applause with that fake exit left and then right. Oldest trick in the book.

[@iVenge]

No one ever had a problem when Nat King Cole sang in French or Italian, and his pronunciation was awful. 😆

[@dmd7472]

No need to lie. I cried. Anyone else?

[@gregoryhamner4124]

Thanks AF

[@unatwomey7112]

Just tidied up my face there. She was a force to do that to us, to translate emotion so naturally.

[@tyragreer9513]

I just watched this because of the Genius movie , and yes I'm crying now, not really sure why but I'm overwhelmed with emotions

[@GRYL180]

This songs make me cry too. 1:38 especially... don't know why but it's very moving

[@frankzona9867]

Yup, I sure did

[@gngirl1]

Celine's reaction is always the most telling

[@albertpeterson5585]

...the most impressive performance of any kind at any Grammys. EVER.

[@sthe_zar6341]

🔥.

[@tonyhughes110]

FACTS.

[@90sbaby1]

Even more so today. Music in the 21st century should be ashamed, especially this decade. So pathetic how humanity has descended largely because of poor music.

[@trevorh355]

Only Aretha could step in at the last minute and still evoke such emotions from those listening. I think the expressions on Faith Hill and Celine Dion's face said it all.

[@sabrinawhitner3069]

Right?! Their emotions alone😯and then her performance😌brought me to tears😭❤

[@azy63]

They, like everyone else, were reminded that giants walked this Earth. They were also moved by Aretha's willingness to help out a friend.

[@bradhuskers]

@@azy63 The most hideous and pitiful interpretation in music history.

[@vickiwinn909]

@@bradhuskers yes you are pitful

[@bradhuskers]

@@vickiwinn909 Dear? If you think this hideous tone and interpretation was good, it is YOU who is pitiful.

[@joeyboy1016]

I love how she didn't try to hold the last note like opera singers usually do. Just hit a succession of runs that only Aretha herself could do. Wonderful.

[@CREEPYKOULWAH]

Natural and soulful.

[@joselianeguenotambroise4703]

Bravo, madame. Une magnifique interprétation. Merci.

[@mandm471]

Fairlight CMI bk they’re not, they’re an embellishment for those who want to embellish. It can be used for some who are masking inability but for a serial note holders and belters like Aretha, Stevie, Luther, Patti, Whitney etc. runs are just additional tricks because for some a bunch of sustained notes gets boring after a while. We wanna hear some tricks.

[@raymondmaxwell6800]

She made it her own. It was masterful. There will only ever be one Aretha.

[@ianclaudio777]

3:40 that run and riff was amazing, I killed the replay

[@quarterday]

I didn’t know a person could sing like that. 😢😢 We have been blessed that she could share her voice in our time.

[@suchisthismystery2814]

And to think that at 56 years of age and after a lifetime of smoking, she pulls off an impromptu performance like that! Utterly unbelievable and wondrously magnificent beyond the scope of words to convey! ❤

[@bibbiana4Lyfe]

Smoking? I've never seen photos of her smoking

[@fudgyboo]

​@@bibbiana4Lyfe she spoke openly about it being a bad habit for her. She quit in the 90s.

[@firelord_ozai]

​@bbvivertube look at her earlier days in the beginning of her career in the 60's when she was in the studio she was definitely smoking

[@2eleven48]

I couldn't give a shit what anyone else might say, this is pure magnificent Aretha. That voice, oh my god, that voice.

[@katiezee2]

I remember seeing this on the Grammy broadcast that night and being totally spellbound & blown away... . a delightful surprize !

[@saudiacooper8609]

I too was spellbound by this performance...but she is The Queen 👑💯❤️

[@historiclift27]

I think it is in her rare case the fact she was not trained in opera that makes this magnificent. She made it her own and the emotion and power of her style is just well words are so lacking as to how amazing this performance truly is.

[@katiezee2]

@@historiclift27 when she went for those bass notes, it gave me chills !

[@aburichard6619]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@markyoung7151]

GOSPERA!! 🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@ValquiriaPinheiro]

💕

[@ritabuggthomas2696]

OKAYYYYY ‼️ ‼️ ‼️ I'M HOLLIN..

[@Columbiana777]

When I hear this song I realize how much we’ve lost. Brings tears to my eyes🥺. RIP to Queen Franklin and King Pavarotti💐

[@saraheart2804]

Wonderful description.

[@tootsiebailey8876]

yeah!

[@lucycorey9468]

2023 here. I love how she made this her own. Especially in the last few bars, it just made me want to hug her in some way. Such a unique soul, she brought her own emotion to everything she sang - she was IN IT!!!

[@niawhittley5681]

3:40 thoooo. That was an heavenly run 😍🥺

[@firelord_ozai]

I'm tryna tell you❤

[@kimf8635]

At the end she took that little breath then sang to open up the heavens. Incredible performance at a moments notice! There was only one Aretha!

[@jenniferharden2258]

Only ONE...

[@pmjhns]

I thought of the return of Christ. Maybe she got a revelation. Very spiritual. My friend sensed it too.

[@Chestercopperpot06]

Exactly what I thought when I heard that. Sounds and feels like the welcoming to heaven.

[@cmbsfo]

Exactly what I thought.... That last note reached the heavens.

[@firelord_ozai]

And never will there be another

[@Sheerkat7]

I saw her do this live. It was breathtaking. I cried. That is a very difficult song to sing. She did it her way and it was beautiful.

[@BDRZN]

So lucky! Glad you had opportunity to see this magical performance

[@lalabeauty]

I did too. I did her makeup for this performance. ❤️💕I saw Pavarotti rehearse it that afternoon and that’s when he said he wasn’t going to perform. He sent her a dozen arrangements of a dozen roses the next day.

[@Sheerkat7]

@@lalabeauty You did a good job. She looked great.

[@Sishbadack]

Wow ! Had to be amazing.

[@gracysiteny1412]

YOU ARE BLESSED

[@drayad2]

I remember watching this live! When Sting announced somebody would be standing in for Pavarotti, I was shocked to hear Aretha's name. Then I sat there with my mouth open in awe at this Queen flavoring opera like never before! She did that! I felt so proud of Aretha...my heart was full! Rest Well Queen❤

[@twilightblue8566]

Aretha was blessed with a set of lungs like no other. She was amazing. Rest in Peace.

[@aliciamcdonald7105]

Amazing pair of lungs for sure.

[@puremusicluveer]

What gets me is her comfort level. She didn’t appear to be nervous at all. I guess when you’re that good and can do it all… why be nervous

[@katherinathompson4445]

This is what Happens when two Epic Genres (opera and gospel) Collide... GOOSEBUMPS

[@gregoryjohnson4319]

I guess I can set all my geese free, I got my own bumps now...

[@Markalanharman]

I was thinking more like nausea.

[@henriettaparks586]

KATHERINE THOMPSON!!! HALLELUJAH!!!! AMEN. OPERA WENT TO CHURCH!!! NIGHT!

[@murphy3558]

@Maynard Runkle can you do better

[@cecilialittmon722]

Didn't Aretha sing this song? WOW!!! BEAUTIFUL....❤❤❤ it..

[@BrianSmith-gg7es]

Everyone in our house stopped dead in our tracks to watch this, it was one of the greatest performances I've ever seen. Like a 5 minute long standing ovation. People in the audience were crying. Magnificent

[@mmjhcb]

In my house they dropped dead from the sheer shock of this horrible rendition.

[@petervankan1]

@@mmjhcb Well, it is a fact, established by scientists and all, that a small percentage of humans lack the capacity to be moved by music. Perhaps in your house they can try the visual arts.

[@mmjhcb]

@@petervankan1 Even someone as smugly dense as you might be embarrassed if you knew to whom you were addressing your pathetic comment. I will make $$$$ from it, though, so thanks. Too bad Aretha never recorded "Norma" for you. 😂🤣😎😂🤣😎😂🤣😎😂🤣😎

[@pearcetaylor8206]

@@petervankan1period

[@jondavwal13]

As an opera fanatic and Franklin fan I remember watching this paralyzed with fear as she started. Then being incredibly moved by her obvious love of the music and her desire to do it justice. I expected to be offended. I was not at all. I was moved to tears.

[@romaniangal]

it’s an amazing rendition 😭🙏

[@timbredan3476]

Yes!!!

[@thihal123]

You liked her rendition of it? I like things that Aretha Franklin typically sings. She doesn’t have an operatic voice; this isn’t the right kind of music for that voice. I didn’t care for this performance at all.

[@ingenueGi]

Me too. I’m watching it again tearing up ❤

[@oliviacasino8888]

As an opera lover I tell you this is as glorious as Nessun Dorma ever sounded to me! Aretha’s artistry is without parallel.

[@bradhuskers]

You obviously know zero about opera, as her tone here was hideous.

[@vanessagras]

@@bradhuskers well then get on video and show us how it's done, since you seem to be the expert and must have the talent to surpass it to critique it with such disdain

[@bradhuskers]

@@vanessagras Here's the thing. It doesn't take a lot to differentiate between beautiful tone and hideous tone. Unless you're being dishonest of course.

[@vanessagras]

@@bradhuskers it's not about dishonesty...it's just an absence of tone focus when watching a soul goddess like aretha franklin take on an iconic operatic song knowing she's not trained for that genre and knowing she won't have the tone but still appreciating the effort and the bigger picture of her taking a piece of that genre and blending it with a completely different, and somehow making it work and seem fresh...all in a last minute effort to fill in for her friend...that no one else couldve pulled off in such a way...bad tone or not....if youre stuck on the tone, then i appreciate ypur ability to notice it....but im sorry you missed the bigger picture...cause as a whole...even with bad tone....this was soulfully perfect...and amazing. And i hope you were able to get that from it as well

[@bradhuskers]

@@vanessagras I appreciate your myopic comments. But I haven't missed a thing. I'm an objective observer of music. You on the other hand, cannot be objective because of your myopia. You call this performance pure perfection because you are an aretha apologist. Guess what dear? EVERY artist has had missteps and clunkers. If you fail to understand that reality, then you are indeed, myopic. I've already discussed Aretha's brilliant back catalog of recordings. But because I'm objective and honest, I can factually point out the good, the bad and the ugly. You however, cannot.

[@NamHoang-xn9ts]

She could have beautifully finished in 03:45 after that incredible run, lifting the audience to the clouds, but no, she continued to bring them outside the earth by the final heavenly soul notes. Such a beautiful rendition! RIP QUEEN!

[@kiwifruit4448]

Yes Lord Yes Lord Hallelujah

[@christinatweet6580]

Thank you God & Jesus for the gift of Aretha.

[@cecimartinez1777]

This is what u call a "NATURAL BORN ARTIST "THIS KIND OF TALENT COMES FROM THE SOUL,FROM THE HEART,THR ARE NO BOUNDARIES,NO BARIERS, NO LIMIT..JUST GOD'S GIVEN TALENT !!!WHAT AN AMAZING PERFORMANCE!! RIP QUEEN OF ALL QUEENS!!!!❤

[@shaunmoran9004]

The look of pure amazement from an accomplished classical crossover singer like Celine says a lot… she couldn’t believe what she had heard, and neither could I. A defining moment in her long and wonderful career.

[@beartoffoli9820]

LOL! That ending where she's all, "Fuck this opera shit it's time to bring the chuch". And she lit is on FIRE.

[@bradhuskers]

LMFAO Her vocals here are pure garbage.

[@kovin-ashleychetty5159]

@@bradhuskers you deaf ?

[@bradhuskers]

@@kovin-ashleychetty5159 No. But if you think this was good, you are deaf and blind.

[@bradhuskers]

@@kovin-ashleychetty5159 Her tone was hideous. It was embarrassing to her. Why can't people be honest?

[@bradhuskers]

Looks like you left wing types are pathological liars as well. Her tone was hideous. And that's being 100% honest

[@fengxiong9374]

What's amazing about it is she obviously did not use any of the bel canto techniques needed for operas. Yet, she is able to perform the very soul of the aria. That is the brilliance of her genre.

[@kiwifruit4448]

The Upside starring Kevin Hart and Brian Cranston brought me here. There was nothing the QUEEN couldn't do. ESPECIALLY with YESHUA on her side. God selected a soldier. And called her back to him. Rest In Heaven Queen Aretha

[@vbplayer50]

This...............will be a historic performance. Mark my words.

[@racky2227]

Oh my. I can’t stop watching this. People are finding fault with this because it is not classical opera. It’s Aretha’s take on it. But I don’t care. She hits some notes in this that makes my heart soar and takes me to heaven and back again. I get chills every time I listen to this. For that I thank you Aretha. Our great Queen!

[@locadisa]

I just love Pavarotti's version but I truly adore Aretha's because she changed it and made it hers that night just like Marvin Gaye made the national anthem his. Real musical artistry! All three,great legends!

[@orleansartist6095]

I got teary the first time I watched this and I still get chills. There will never be another Aretha.

[@leeloonewminai6933]

👑

[@locadisa]

You too. I am moving back and forth from Pavarotti's version and hers. Check out the comments on the Warner page. Italy is watching. Our prayers are with them during this pandemic and to you my fellow Americans we can get through this. We will win!

[@albertogonzalezsantos9885]

This is the perfection of the imperfection. When I listen to a classic singer, all sound very similar. This is quite different. This makes difference

[@UmohowetYelayu]

If you approach this as a musically-limited person who ONLY understands classical music and is expecting an opera-purist performance, you’ll be disappointed; but that is because of your lack, not hers. Those who understand music recognize what they are witnessing: arguably the greatest popular/modern vocalist of the 20th Century giving a stylistically-true interpretation of a classical aria, a musical fusion born from a colliding of the geniuses of Aretha Franklin and Giacomo Puccini. Here, a paradigm shifting 20th Century vocalist interprets the music of the era before her, understanding and transmitting the beauty of the melody, lyric, and overall structure, while infusing it with her revolutionary vocal style, that ultimately become the blueprint for every major popular vocalist after her during the last half of the 20th Century. It takes my breath away. The switch to English helped the primarily English-speaking audience understand the poetry of the words in addition to the gorgeousness of the music. The trill on the final “Vincerò” is an absolute realization, and is a brilliant interpretative choice that sounds almost better than the original sustained A4 (also a stylistic choice, since the score doesn’t explicitly call for it). Even more, realizing that she, a mezzo-soprano for all intents and purposes, is singing the song in Pavarotti’s tenor key is even more impressive. As always the soul, emotion, authenticity, and captivating tone is there, as, even though her top most range wasn’t as strong in her later years, her middle and low range retains that tone, which was perhaps the most natural vocal tone we’ve heard in modern singers. I would have loved to hear her cover this in her prime, back in the 60s or 70s or even early 80s. THAT would have been even more exception because those high notes would’ve have the chest support, volume, and sheer power which she was known for. This was stunning!

[@Crybaby-cz8et]

@Umohowet Yelayu I agree with your comment. Sounds like a music teacher. Are you??

[@gzclover]

I totally agree. what's more, it was a non-rehearsal, last minute performance.

[@Alphaphotographer]

I think your description of her genius in this performance is spot on.

[@lindsayharris6056]

Preachhhhh!

[@JD-ww8or]

THANK YOU TO Umohowet Yelayu FOR YOUR BEAUTIFUL & ELOQUENT POSTING. NOBODY SAID IT BETTER. NO OTHER WORDS ARE NECESSARY TO DESCRIBE & APPLAUD ARETHA'S UNFORGETTABLE RENDITION.

[@thefog7067]

Some opera purists never gave her the r e s p e c t she deserved for the amazing performance she gave that evening and even had the nerve to criticise her performance like any of them could've got up there and done it better. You can't get better than perfect. It was raw emotion transcended straight from the heart of a true master. R.I.P Aretha - The Queen 1942 - 2018

[@forgoogletotrack7181]

I don't understand why they'd criticize her. She was a big-voiced soul singer and actually sang this piece beautifully with 15 minutes' notice, and I'm sure if she had time to practice with the orchestra, it would've been even better.

[@vylon1075]

It was a glorious performance indeed. And I bet she made the orchestra happy. It is not everytime they can perform a piece as unique as this.

[@dion6340]

it's the low notes for me. the end is a straight up party!!!! I love it!!!! RIP QUEEN

[@robertrobinson3533]

The Queen showing EVERYONE why is is THE QUEEN.

[@sopherajane750]

Beautiful

[@sariahpiacentini9274]

By fucking up a beautiful song, there are songs that can be sang with different interpretation. However, there are songs that are meant to be untouched. This song has be sang by the best singers in the world and nobody changed the song. She should have at least learned the words. Only musically uneducated people would like this mess!

[@robertrobinson3533]

@@sariahpiacentini9274 little late to the party. Lets see you top her then..?

[@sariahpiacentini9274]

@@robertrobinson3533 I am not a singer. This popped up on my feed because I play opera to my grandson. Is there an expiration date on KZbin? Like I said, I am not a singer, I know what do well and what I don't. If she couldn't sing opera, or didn't know the words, she should have passed. She destroyed the song. I will not argue with someone who knows nothing about classical music. BYE

[@robertrobinson3533]

@@sariahpiacentini9274 buahahaaaa. I literally listen to Opera everyday. First she was asked and stated that she was nervous. Second, i will destroy you in the xlassical opera category. Settle down Karen. Third, no need to tell me you're not a singer twice let alone at all. AS I SAID, if the QUEEN butchered it, YOU go and do. Better job then, otherwise, stay-out-of-this-lane are you're more than likely to get run over on it.

[@eugenioconti4688]

With little to no preparation, she managed to make a perfect and unique mix of opera and soul. The pace is unique, the way she follows and leads the orchestra at the same time is unique. I have the feeling of someone that did not prepare it, but yet somehow manages it her way, surprising the listener. Her italian is not good, but the transition to English (hardly a language for opera) is wonderful. Somewhat everything is totally off the book, yet it is wonderful in its uniqueness. And every time she manages to squeeze one of her signature soul vocalization in the melody, it is just heart-melting. This whole thing is a mark of genius. Could not expect anything else from the queen!

[@FranzBlumVan1890]

She doesn't une any opera style on here... anyway she did very well

[@theanswer7136]

Go back and listen to 3:44 to 3:46 where she actually breaks the note!!! .. Absolute epitome of soul stirring. Divine! Her absolute pinnacle status solidified queen of soul

[@Arpege92]

Non avrei potuto dirlo meglio!

[@dexterhinds7945]

Like someone said oh here that she’s not Pavarotti but she made it her own

[@belldanime]

If you can write an opera in effing German, you can write one in anything. Mozart proved that one.

[@randyroe5494]

Legend She put soul into opera that night And made music history

[@aliciamcdonald7105]

Get chills whenever I listen to this even now in 2022!! Unbelievable and absolutely stunning performance by Ms Aretha Franklin.

[@ladydignity]

Imagine if you were in the front row while she was singing,wow!!!! 😍

[@Natedawgg84]

2023 🔥

[@Eddemnity]

2023

[@aliciamcdonald7105]

@@Eddemnity Back to watch it again 2023!

[@orawhorton8778]

You know she was really good when the orchestra started clapping after she had finish singing a very difficult song,she was awesome!!!!!

[@darricklong7731]

This is why she is the Queen Of Soul.

[@1955annemarie]

Yes. And there will never be another like her. Aretha will always reign as the Queen of Soul.

[@kingyosef5746]

Facts...nothing else needs 2 b said.

[@qhubbles]

Only the queen could turn opera into soul.

[@esthernombri5867]

The fact that she just got up and sang this aria out out of the blue is just something else! What a talented, beautiful women she was. ❤

[@erickal4037]

How many are here after watching Cynthia Erivo in genius: Aretha on National Geographic channel? She was amazing !

[@jennlarkin6410]

Meeeee

[@diannebbbbb]

Almost as good as Aretha

[@rwlowe6177]

Me too

[@jmelo9993]

She can’t hold a candle to Retha

[@FyF569]

BIG ME

[@itssosarahh]

3:41 has got to be the most beautiful sound I've ever heard.

[@misterunknown6185]

ssssarah rightttttt!!! Goosebumps!!!

[@MrNR96]

Right!! every time i listen, that part gets me

[@theanswer7136]

Yes! Goto the moment between 3:44 and 3:46 . and then back again from 3:20 to 3:46. Soul cracking divine. I came back lookin just to tell u cuz i went back to your 3:41 and absolutely agree.. And then stumbled upon 3:44-3:46..! Listen closely you will be moved.

[@winifredotu171]

Oh yes

[@Cooperfan54]

Yes! Yes! Yes!! I showed this snippet to my boyfriend, and I was just like listen to that... do you hear it? It’s one of the purest sounds I’ve ever heard. You could hear her soul. It shook me. Just that note she hits. I think he thought I was crazy. She hits a sweet spot to say the least.

[@ericgordon4064]

Man I'm just a 52 Old country boy from Southern Ohio and this gets me every time I see it golly what an amazing voice a voice that will last through the ages

[@evalilliekvist3996]

The end, oh my God the end...my heart lifted and flew away, and I just cried...amazing. Have never seen or heard this before. She was incredible, what a voice

[@bigtopvoice2197]

Rarely do we ever call a woman a genius. Queen Aretha was truly a musical genius. She did this on the fly. Legend has it she listened to it only once before this performance. She’s the GOAT.

[@mandm471]

The legendary, Aretha Franklin. She could and did sing any and everything. She was asked to do this about 1-2 hours before it aired and did this with no rehearsal. Just phenomenal.

[@stephenhardy6340]

This Diva is vocally communicating on a level that is far beyond, static, perfect pronunciation of lyrics , and Is birthing, in real time a vibrant new life into this operatic masterpiece! One of the most spectacular demonstrations of vocal genius in our lifetime! Her Bravery and genius will live forever!

[@christinatweet6580]

SO accurate, thank you.....She is SO missed...in paradise

[@mariolim]

Kudos to the conductor, he did a really great job!

[@colorblindvids]

Aretha Franklin singing Nessun Dorma: a testament to the beauty that we can create together. What a great mashup

[@jlee5490]

Her climax at 3:41 sends you straight to Heaven. Game over, it's done, this is the best version of this song. SHE PUT 110% OF HER SOUL INTO IT.

[@jadabradley9983]

Literally keep rewinding that part back❤️

[@maryruth7077]

I remember this as if it were yesterday. I had loved Puccini, and I had loved Aretha - separately - for years. I would never have imagined the two together. From the first note, I dropped what I was doing, I sank into a nearby chair, and I nearly lost my breath listening to this. I’ve never forgotten it. There are no words that can capture the beauty. Just listen.

[@jasonkelly8771]

Puccini died long before Aretha was even born. LOL WTF are you even talking about? You also obviously don't know what this piece of music is supposed to sound like. Aretha cannot sing it.

[@pablocosta4472]

It's a lifetime performance. 2023 and i'm still stand O for this

[@keithshowell6688]

Jessie Norman and Mahalia Jackson rose up in heaven an applauded like thunder and wept with joy in the rain! They later welcomed her into their celestial choir. BRAVO, "Queen Of Soul"!

[@TheStockwell]

Not a big deal, but Franklin died the year before Norman. So, it would've been two gospel singers welcoming a legendary opera singer into the choir. Have a safe and wonderful summer. :)

[@keithshowell6688]

@@TheStockwell Thank You!

[@Tdvc]

You killed Jessie Norman about 21 years ealier lol!

[@kiwifruit4448]

Yes Lord Hallelujah. Glory to the Almighty God. We sing to thee my King we thank you we Glorify you. You alone are WORTHY to be Praised. Blessed the Spiritually trained heart n mind especially the ears. To know GOD was all in this performance. From Aretha to the band choir. God was All in the details. Hallelujah. Amen

[@user-li2ir5ss5p]

Aretha is not an opera singer, She is just one of the Greatest Singers to ever live. When she sings, you feel it in your soul. That’s why she is undeniably, The Queen!!! 👑 May She Rest In Heaven🙏🏾

[@inakicastellano4054]

If this video do not give you goosebumps, are not human. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN THE REAL QUEEN.

[@MrSpain29]

We don't agree on much these days, but we all agree that Aretha is the Queen!

[@Nanbebe7]

I stopped the Nat Geo Movie to see the actual performance first! Amazing Miss Franklin!! Bravo!!

[@mystery1317]

I don’t know which celebrity is the bigger mood, if Celine Dion being shooketh or Sting bowing to kiss Aretha’s hand

[@adeleflateau6216]

I first fell in love with “Nessun Dorma” when I heard Pavarotti sing it and I became a huge fan of the man and his music. Then I heard Bocelli sing it- I was already a fan so just loved him more. When I heard ARETHA, it was absolutely soul-stirring and gave me chills!! Miss her so much, none like her! ♥️♥️♥️

[@Pimpernella]

I am a great fan of Bocelli but for Nessun Dorma, Pavarotti really outshines all others. It's that harder pitch that does it...like Aretha has too. But opinions can differ...and for Miserere Bocelli is way better than Pavarotti is. And it's true, like Aretha there's no one like her. She makes it seem so easy, as she always did. 🎶💌👏

[@emmajones8358]

If you like Pavarotti you should look up the Mario Lanza version of it. Superb.

[@adeleflateau6216]

@@Pimpernella , I agree with all you said! Andrea Bocelli is perfection on MISERE, one of the reasons I became a fan - listening to the ROMANZA CD 20 years ago.

[@adeleflateau6216]

@@emmajones8358 , thank you. Will check out Mario Lanza’s version.

[@samraizshoaib585]

@@Pimpernella I know this is an entirely subjective thing (and for the record I prefer Pavarottis iteration myself) but what about Jussi Bjorling whom many consider the greatest of all time as an opera singer and especially when singing this aria.

[@jakerj96]

3:40 hits me every time! Simply amazing is what this performance was!

[@yulondaroyster6849]

My goodness, SAME 🫶🏾❤️🙏🏾

[@dentryperkins6903]

Yep.......tears........everytime. There is purpose there. Means something to my spirit.

[@farrellcityking1]

One of the greatest runs ever.

[@boing1oings]

idk why it makes me cry every time

[@sterlingrock7769]

This was iconic. Aretha was not scheduled to perform and agreed to step in at the last moment when asked by the Grammys. And what a deva moment it was that instantly became historic and iconic.

[@bradhuskers]

Her tone was hideous. Absolute crap. Your low IQ is showing.

[@zacharyrodriguez964]

@@bradhuskers I’m studying music in college and I’m no way was her tone crap I trust my professors that are doctors way more than some internet troll!

[@bradhuskers]

@@zacharyrodriguez964 I've studied music longer than you've been alive and you wouldn't know good tone from a hole in the ground, you troll.

[@bradhuskers]

Your IQ is low.

[@bradhuskers]

@@zacharyrodriguez964 LMFAO Her tone was hideous here. But your low IQ prevents you from understanding that.

[@vinnie906]

The amount of respect and bravery in that woman was bigger than any expectation for that performance. I'm gonna call her the pioneer of combining Opera with Soul simply because I just felt it coming from her heart and her spirit. May you rest in piece, Aretha.

[@michaelgarel4279]

To the folks who clicked a thumbs down...YOU MUST BE DEAF!!...This was ethereal in every sense of the word...

[@cecimartinez1777]

THE FACT THAT SHE ONLY HAD A FEW MOMENTS TO DECIDE AND LEARN THIS SONG ???!!!HER ANGELS HAD HER BACK AND WHISPERED..",YOU GOT THIS!" 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@NRGTracking]

Actually no, not only was she well and truly familiar with the piece, she had, in fact, performed it in public a week before.

[@Pussycateyes00]

She made Nessun Dorma her own! Incredible! Just a handful of today's "singers" can nail this song. Fantastic!!

[@bradhuskers]

She ruined the song with her hideous tone.

[@abcabc4319]

@@bradhuskers you obviously don’t understand classical or gospel music.

[@rachelberrythegleequeen.3221]

@@bradhuskers I couldn’t even make it through the damn thing

[@patriciaredick9849]

Love the respect shown by Sting when he kissed her hand. So beautiful.

[@CP-ge1ib]

UNMATCHED!!- range, depth, tone, artistic interpretation, richness. Only the QUEEN could deliver so effortlessly on such short notice. God bless the legacy she’s left for our enjoyment and inspiration.

[@lorrainebooker9541]

Dear God, I thank you for this In the Name Of Jesus, Amen.

[@mikecueto819]

Her performance on Nessun Dorma is the sole reason Aretha Franklin is the greatest singer of all time. She's the only singer who can absolutely stun an audience with her voice regardless of genre.

[@eiddiegreen4148]

She ain't better than Whitney. I don't care what she sings. Imagine Whitney singing it in 1990. Js

[@Samoatupo]

WOW SHE WAS A LATE REPLACEMENT FOR PAVAROTTI AND SHE KILLED IT. A LEGEND STEPPING IN FOR A LEGEND.

[@ThisHandleFeatureIsStupid]

Pavarotti > Franklin. And it's not even close to close.

[@ivyfalls1]

@Maynard Runkle You are right. She killed it in a fantastic way!!!!

[@roxanns9149]

@@ivyfalls1 Beat me to it :)

[@02887727356]

@Maynard Runkle wow is all i can say

[@02887727356]

@Maynard Runkle Sorry MAYNARD but im going to have to disappoint you but not my thing. Thank you for trying to enlighten this musical .peasant

[@1959yankeefan]

The greatest performance of her career. Cry every time I see this

[@davidshep45]

I remember this performance. I wondered if Aretha could pull it off. From the first note I was floored and by the last in tears. I've been a fan for decades. There will never be another like Aretha. This was a definite triumph in her career. Stunning to see and joyful to hear.

[@kathleen8627]

57 years old here. and her voice was better than ever. i can't name another singer whose voice aged as well as hers. she could do it all! what a gift her voice was.

[@treymarks4122]

PATTI LABELLE!

[@kathleen8627]

@@treymarks4122 you are ABSOLUTELY correct! My mistake. lol! Thanks for the reminder.

[@treymarks4122]

@@kathleen8627 Yes lol Aretha had the technique and stylings but smoking and poor health took her voice away as she aged. Patti was doing some of her best singing in her 40's-50's when Aretha's voice was fading.

[@Ellerich3]

@@treymarks4122 u took my answer!!!

[@seven979]

@@treymarks4122 her 60s as well have you see her live performance of ghettomusick with Outkast?

[@valq10]

So funny watching the conductor and orchestra struggling so hard to keep to her time but oh my if this isn't one of the best fusions music has ever seen !!! She is a force of nature

[@yowzahful]

She made this song her own. What a legend. RIP Miss Aretha Franklin.

[@laurencebrooks7699]

Im just a lay singer, but I would never attempt to sing a song without preparation, especially one I did not know, or in a different Genre...just shows Aretha was a true professional...amazing talent and skill!

[@christichristi5481]

This will go down as one of the greatest performances of all time.

[@tallwonder]

girl yes it will.

[@mubaraksenju7521]

Definitely a big nono. Are you living in a cave? There's plenty more performances better than this lol. And dont make me talk about the nessun dorma ending..

[@tallwonder]

@@mubaraksenju7521 you just want to start a fight don’t you? back off nigga, back off.

[@christichristi5481]

@@mubaraksenju7521 I pray you find peace because it’s obvious that you’re filled with hate and unhappy. #KeyboardGangsta

[@mubaraksenju7521]

@@christichristi5481 my profile pic is my dear cousin when he was around 1 years old. He's 7 now. U wanna defend that this is definitely the greatest performance of all time, then go on. Idgaf about your taste. It's sad nonetheless. I say you live in a cave not because I wanna roast you. But wanna make you think agai. This is one is the best? Really? If so, then bye!

[@Orpilorp]

Jane here. She opened up the song for me by singing some of the lyrics in English, as if it were her secret she was keeping! She made the song so real and alive. It was exquisite. I'm so glad she made the ending her own.

[@csgarrison118]

The beauty in how she so gracefully and beautifully started singing some of the aria in English is what makes this that much more emotionally convicting.