At 90, legendary British singer Engelbert Humperdinck has no intention of slowing down. With a career spanning more than six decades, more than 150 million records sold and a reputation as the "King of Romance," the iconic performer is preparing to return to Israel in January, bringing his timeless love songs to an audience he says has always welcomed him with warmth and affection.
Humperdinck reflected on his remarkable longevity, his continuing passion for performing and the special connection he feels with Israeli audiences. "I just finished a Canadian tour and a whole bunch of concerts," he said, explaining that his schedule remains packed with performances across North America. "It's fun for me. I love it. I love what I do."
Engelbert Humperdinck interview at the ynet studio
(Video: Yaron Brener)
Despite reports describing his latest performances as a farewell tour, Humperdinck was quick to set the record straight. "It's not called the farewell tour, it's called the celebration tour," he explained. "We're celebrating the fact that I'm still working," he added, emphasizing that he continues to perform around the world.
His upcoming visit to Israel will not be his first. Having performed in the country several times throughout his career, Humperdinck says the reception he receives from Israeli fans is one of the reasons he keeps coming back. "They've always treated me very well, with love and respect," he said. "I just love coming there."
Asked whether Israel's security situation or criticism from anti-Israel movements gave him any hesitation about returning, the singer made clear that he prefers to keep politics separate from his music.
"My job is to entertain the people with love and romance, and that's all I care about," he said. "I don't get involved in the political side of it. I'm an entertainer."
In an era dominated by social media, political divisions and constant uncertainty, Humperdinck remains convinced that romance still has an important place in the world. "Romance is still alive, and it will be, hopefully, as long as I'm alive," he said.
He also reflected on the title that has followed him throughout his career: the King of Romance. "When I first started in this industry, I was deemed as the King of Romance," he recalled. "It's so wonderful to have a royal statement like that."
Humperdinck noted that only a handful of performers have been associated with such enduring titles. "The King of Pop was Michael Jackson, the King of Rock 'n' Roll was Elvis Presley, and I'm happy to be the King of Romance."
As for what Israeli fans can expect from his January performances, the singer promised a selection from his extensive musical catalog, which includes international classics such as Release Me, The Last Waltz and A Man Without Love.
Engelbert Humperdinck
(Photo: Yaron Brener)
"I'm very fortunate because I've had so many wonderful hit songs that have been spun around the world," he said. "I've sold over 150 million albums around the world, and I have a big choice of songs that I will be bringing to your part of the world."
For Humperdinck, the secret to a career that has endured for generations appears remarkably simple: a love of music, an appreciation for his audiences and a refusal to let age define what comes next.
And while many artists might view their 90th birthday as an opportunity to step away from the spotlight, the King of Romance is choosing to celebrate exactly where he has always felt at home — on stage.
"I look forward to it," he said of his upcoming return to Israel.