In 1986, Eric Clapton added the not-so-well-known pop-rock song “Holy Mother” to his new album “August.” The tune had a powerful gospel vibe and focused on prayer and being saved. Fast forward to the next decade, Eric’s amazing live performance of the song with famous opera singer Luciano Pavarotti on YouTube gained a whopping 12.8 million views—way more than the first upload! This solidified Clapton’s track in everyone’s minds.
Eric, who was 51 years old at the time, sang the first part of the song all by himself, keeping its original clear sound. Meanwhile, the East London Gospel Choir sang softly in the background. Then, in the second verse, Luciano Pavarotti’s powerful opera singing and beautiful Italian accent turned the song into a really emotional hymn, unlike a typical rock ballad.
At first, Luciano’s voice seemed out of place when the song began, but as he took control and Eric Clapton’s guitar solo blended with the Gospel Choir, a feeling of unity emerged. By the end of the popular film, even Luciano seemed amazed by the music on stage!
Luciano Pavarotti, who was born in Modena, Italy, changed the game for opera singers after an amazing performance at the 1990 FIFA World Cup with The Three Tenors. His album “The Essential Pavarotti” made history by becoming the first classical album to top the UK album charts in the same year, showing that he was a true legend.
