I know many of you don't like Opera. For me about the only thing I don't like is rap.

Anyway, this kid is unbelievable, and to think his full time job is being a cell phone salesman, not for long...

Part 1 first round
http://www.maniacworld.com/Phone-Salesman-Amazes-Crowd.html

Part 2 finals
http://www.maniacworld.com/Phone-Salesman-Amazes-Crowd-Part-2.html

I've casually followed his story, and have loved every minute. That first, surprisingly fantastic performance, was so unexpected it reduced me to tears. Part of his appeal is that he is so unassuming and shyly honest. What a breath of fresh air.

I do hear some rough edges in his performances, but the talent and ability is all there. Opera is acting as well as singing, and we simply don't know his acting abilities. But, I would think, with training and practice, there is no reason he can't be successful.

Randy & Jack - thanks for this!!!

I just spent over an hour wandering off into YouTube and watching Paul from his first BTG show to pretty much current. Wow. Talk about coming from nowhere.

I agree with Jack - he's a bit rough (I also listened to Pavarotti, Groban and Bocelli while I wa sat YouTube). He also looks like he is very tired. Based on the locations from his videos, he's been traveling extensively and I'm guessing that the folks at BTG are riding him hard and putting him away wet.

He will need good coaching and his phrasing/passion are a bit thin, but he most assuredly has an instrument. Nice to see they spent some money on tooth and hair makeovers.

I love this kind of stuff and I hope he makes it.

Ajax, I must admit I snickered a little when you said the 1st performance reduced you to tears.... I'll be damned....I just saw it. Same for me. He needs some coaching... but wow.. the talent is there. I wish him the best of luck!

If he does the outgoing message for me, I'll buy a cell phone from him.

Ok, I admit I teared a bit as well. It is obvious the kid was born with some God given talent. I wish him the best on his new CD.

This Youtube video from the NBC Today show is a good wrap up of the whole story from rags to riches...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IPctqzfQQmU

Your internet must be old. I saw these a few months ago and loved them. Worth a rewatch, though.

Thanks for those links. Never heard of this guy but wow he's great!