I just received Susan Boyle's latest album The Gift and it truly is one. Primarily a Christmas CD, it contains many songs that remind me of childhood and innocence. My mother had a beautiful voice too and Boyle's version of "O Holy Night" moved me to tears because my mom used to sing it every Holiday season.
Susan's sweet, angelic voice permeates the album and the arrangements sound as though they were written in heaven. Background choirs complement Boyle and one Hymn, "Away In A Manager" begins with a pure and innocent boy soprano solo echoing the humbleness of the tune and Susan Boyle's modest nature.
It is clear from hearing this CD that Susan is a spiritual person. There is almost a hushed reverence in "Make Me A Channel of Your Peace" that convinces me Boyle believes every word she is singing.
My favorites are "Do You Hear What I Hear?" (another song that takes me back to my childhood) and the poignant "Auld Lang Syne". Who better that a Scotswoman to sing a Scottish tune?
Susan has recently been vilified in the press for "choking" when she stopped singing recently on The View because she "had a frog in her throat." To me this is harsh criticism. I watched the show and it made me love her even more. She obviously had a cold or throat infection and her voice was failing her. She had no option except to stop. As a musician I know things don't always go as planned. This incident just points up her humanness and one of the reasons she is so beloved by the world: she is one of us.
The View audience had the right idea, graciously cheering her as loud as they would if she had finished the song. I read that Susan took the experience in stride which was good to hear, considering her fragile handling of past incidents with the media. Instant stardom is tough on anyone. I hope Susan knows that we fans love her and will support her no matter what. She is a precious flower that we would like to continue to blossom and grow and we hope she graces us with her talent for many years to come.
I recently spoke to a friend who had never heard of Susan Boyle. I found this incomprehensible and asked her what rock she has been living under. Actually, she doesn't have a computer so I told her to go to the library and click on the Youtube of Susan's Britain's Got Talent audition. I can't think of a more uplifting way to start any day. Over 54 million hits must make it one of the most watched Youtube clips ever. Susan, you are a blessing to us and I hope you never forget that. Thank you for sharing your "gift" with the world and keep the Faith.