Most of them forgot to be creepy. It’s a given, the modern trend is the play is a love story with a flawed genius. The genius being attractive is popular with general audience. The acting part can be put aside to focus on vocal performance.
From a bumbling Frank Spencer to an elegant Phantom, there will never again be an entertainer with such a range. Thank you for blessing us with your talent Michael.
Anyone else feel Crawford understands the song the best? Yes, he has a remarkable voice.. but to me what puts him over the top is that he knows this song is about the Phantom trying to seduce the girl.. It's not just a song.. There's so much love and depression that Crawford's pace captures perfectly. It's unbelievably moving.
MICHAEL CRAWFORD IS THE FIRST, THE BEST AND THE GREATEST PHANTOM. His voice was gentle and tender like a ghost, caressing like a real seducer and clear and powerful. Nothing equals the original.
Crawford set the standard for the phantom - no one who followed could match his performance; his interpretation and presentation was truly spectacular.
The first, and still the best Phantom. I have heard a great many gifted and talented performers sing this song, and this role; and as wonderful as they all are, not one of them can touch the original, Michael Crawford. That high note still causes me to hold my breath, and the chills still shake my spine, especially when he sings the next line: "only then can you belong to me". The ethereal beauty, the power, the pain... they are all there, unmistakably, in one magnificent performance. Michael, no one can touch you.
Michael Crawford's absolutely magnificent performance of "Music of the Night" from "Phantom of the Opera" is only equaled in the history of Broadway by Betty Buckley's equally incredible performance of "Memory" from "Cats"! Simply the two greatest- ever Broadway songs in the history of musical theater!
Claire Clark I remember watching Michael Crawford in Some Mother’s Do Have Them, and was stunned when the character of Frank showed how wonderful a talent he is as the Phantom
Nobody has answered you. I will. I have and never will forget that evening. I tried like hell to get out of going to see it at the LA Music Center as my wife and I were in the process of separating but no luck as my in-laws, who were patrons, had a long and elaborate formal evening planned for months. For this venue Michael performed with Dale Christian and my seat was directly under where the chandelier settled after coming off the stage. I worried about that. I was absolutely stunned by the flawless professionalism of all the players and crew but the voices of the two were beyond anything I've heard to date in a recording and Michael's voice was much more powerful and far reaching in range, live, than what you hear here. All I knew of Michael Crawford prior to this was that he had minor roles in western movies. Needles to say, I have been a devotee of Michael's music ever since that evening. As an aside, I have mentally been kicking myself in the rear every time I remember almost talking my way out of going to this performance, like now. Happy Thanksgiving-Tim (I see you perform in NYC. You may know Michael Rupert?)
Tim Smith Thanks so much for writing! I got to see him in "The Go-Between" in London recently *TWICE* and can agree with you about the voice. He's much older now, but there was a depth and passion in him that is still palpable, even at his age. He cried both times. Literally cried! That was incredible to see. I can only imagine what that energy and voice would be like to see live in Phantom! I would give anything to have seen him. There aren't any really clear recordings of him doing it live, so I can only imagine. Yes. Michael will always be my most favorite performer and singer. His work and his voice hold a special place in my life! I was a newborn baby when he first took the stage on Broadway. I think my parents saw him, but neither of them remember much!
MC: *flashes a Nelson Eddy charming smile* "Well, Andrew, I think you've got your handsome young nobleman." ALW: "Yes, we hired him last week. We want YOU to be the Phantom!" MC: "What??? You mean, the ugly, old...? ...For over 1,300 performances I donned the mask and the cape." ^^ My favourite story from this performance. :D
bgmpt Oh, yes, definitely. I know the show as it's one of my favorites. I just believe a more stronger voice would of been better. However, I suppose he did sounds somewhat okay in Music Of The Night, however, any others, in my opinion, needed more power.
Riley Kaye The female heart prefers to be seduced by a soft caressing voice such as Michael uses here, except after the passion builds when he begins more intense. But then I am just a women of 82 who has experienced life so what do I know? So if you want a woman to love you intimately just go shout in her ear and see where that gets you.
Nothing better!! NOTHING. BETTER!!!!! Oh my word, the perfection that is Michael Crawford as the Phantom. I first heard him sing this at 11 years old, on the sound track, and I was smitten, and now 26 years later, the goosebumps are still relentless!! He IS Erik. I love how the right side of his face is shadowed during this performance, reminiscent of the mask.
As Michael has always said....”I am an actor who can sing.” He gave birth to this role. Those who followed, while some wonderful, did not have the connection at the heart that MC gave this role. If anyone has ever had the wonderful chance of meeting him in person you realize this is a man that gives 1000% to everything he does. Genuine, humble and so gracious and giving. Moved to tears when something touches his heart and not afraid to show it. Love everything he has ever done! Phantom, Cornelius Hackle, Frank Spencer, even Dave Finn in ‘Chalk and Cheese’ which his grandmother hated. I miss him.
Many years ago, my sister and I saw Michael, along with Sarah Brightman perform "The Phantom" in Norfolk, VA This was definitely the very best version and the best performance I've ever attended. I saw "The Phantom" much later, same place, and while it was good, it was full of pyrotechnics and the voices were nownere like the very talented originals here. Bravo Michael and Sarah!!!
We can only ponder as to why this individual chose this course of action. Albeit on the internet, I must say that it has been a while since I`ve seen this particular type of behavior. Be it adolescence, containing therein an amusement like in the form of humor, or some other unknown motive. I must confess, in my own youth I sprayed pictures of male genitalia and similar jpeg`s on the walls of de_dust(1 and 2) frequently. So what I`m trying to convey is; in spite of having been an idiot, I still can`t see what Allen Rhymer got out of this.
I agree too. Michael Crawford's voice is unique and memorable. When I was young I saw "the music of the night-1986" record of Michael on TV. I was shocked by the mystery and powerful voice. He is a really wonderful and outstanding phantom.
Michael Crawford ruined me for Musical Theater. People around me enjoyed the Phantom movies, but I see Gerard Butler or Antonio Banderas play the phantom... I laugh. Crawford's voice is wispy, sultry, powerful, "Phantasmal." Honestly some of the best casting in an original production I've ever seen. 10/10
TristanandIsolt I used to think they were the best. I still like their voices, but John Owen Jones, Hugh Panero, and Micheal Crawford are definitely some of my favorites.
I've listened to the original recording so many times that I've accidentally memorized virtually every nuance, and amazingly, he sings it almost as beautifully, purely, emotionally, and chillingly as he did nearly 30 years ago. Very few vocalists can perform night in and night out for years as he did and still sing this well decades later. Bravo!
Phanthom is not about the voice is about the feelings. Need to be hypnotic, tender. Not need a mega-voice-tenor. Need an actor. Well: Michael Crowford. That's all. Many people have better voice than John Lennon, but only one can play "Imagine" like him. That's the question for me.
@@na1959 Is the word you're looking for intonations? Also, I totally agree, he really puts thought into every lyric and still makes it seem natural and not stagey.
He is the best Phantom. His voice is haunting and almost ghostly. And when he sings this song he sounds so vulnerable rather than most other Phantoms who seem to go towards anger and power rather than that soft ghostly tone that has pain and power behind it. Wish I could've seen him play the Phantom with Sarah Brightman. Her voice was something else !
Um, I'm not knocking on either Phantom or Lord Webber but, what about Lin-Manuel Miranda and Hamilton? I know Phantom has been running ten times longer than Hamilton, but in my opinion Hamilton is on the same level as Phantom. I wouldn't say that Hamilton pales near Phantom, no they'd just sing together. The historical Alexander Hamilton did sing with his family. ;)
I have heard many others who played the Phantom, but no one can touch the emotion of the character or song as Michael Crawford did. Oh yes, powerful voices have sung it, and if you just prefer that then maybe you prefer another, but never has any other touch my heart and made me cry as Michael does each time I hear and see him sing this song. His rendition, body movements, expressions, everything says "Phantom," he owns this and always will!!
Such genuine interpretation, the phrases are full of meaning, feeling, it’s the character of the Phantom coming through in every word. Bravo Michael. The reaction from the audience is also genuine, they applaud with great enthusiasm, pride and satisfaction.
The audience released they had just witnessed something truly extraordinary. A performance they’ll likely never see again. One of the best musical performances of all time.
0808zone gotta agree, though I'm not an expert on the subject. Watching this for the first time, incredible what the guy does with his body, and his MOUTH . . .remembering that he was wearing the half mask and didn't have the rest of his face with which to convey expression. True master work! Watching over and over, such a great job.
0808zone Michael Crawford IS the phantom. It's just a fact of life. It's so funny listening to him sing anything that isn't from PotO because then it just sounds like the Phantom singing random songs.
0808zone I agree that was the best singer, until Ramin came along. Crawford is the best singer to ever play the Phantom, but Ramin captures character of the Phantom better. The sadness, anger and grittiness. Crawford's voice is too angelic.
I’m a singer myself, love singing and I’ve tried a hundred times now to hold some of those notes on one breathe like he does. It’s impossible, I need two breathes to sustain the note. Love his vocal and performance on this. Truly amazing
Look into breathing exercises. A choir teacher taught us to take a big breath in while pushing out your stomach, to fill your diaphragm, and fill your lungs at the same time . I know you know. Keep working on it if it’s important to you. YOU’LL ACHIEVE your GOAL.. I applaud 👏 👏 👏 you.
@@jeaniehamilton5548 Pianists would also practice every day for several hours for a single performance. Ballet dancers work hard to make it look easy. That's the discipline of the arts and same with the sciences.
I solely understand what you've felt. I am a night time cafe-singer and love this rendition. Attempts of a lot of times I failed, but the whole practice makes me happy even I mess the tune. The tunes' energy itself gives me the strength to carry on my humble music journey.
Arguably the most sensational male opera vocalist of all time! His range, depth, and control are legendary! No other performer of the Phantom of The Opera came anywhere near his passion and power!
If we’re really talking in terms of the greatest male opera singers, Crawford doesn’t even come close. That’s not to say he isn’t special in his own way, though.
He is , was, and will always be the best Phantom of the Opera, his range and articulation is amazing. He brought all the songs to life, you could feel the passion, pain, and hope the Phantom had through his voice. Thank you Michael and Sarah for sharing your wonderful talent with the world.
Seriously, I can't find another who can perform this song as brilliantly. His depth and emotion are unmatched. Nevermind the fact that his performance is so consistent!
@@marcog6056 Yes I am. I love operatic, classical, country, some pop music in the early days, folk, and jazz. I also have the original soundtrack of Phantom of the Opera with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman singing with the rest of the London Cast.
Oh, my.... yes!! If his health and voice allow, wouldn't it be wonderful to reprise the role, just once more, for perhaps a virtual performance... available online, free, for the world?!? Then, release it on DVD, for everyone to finally own a copy of the OG, the first and best of all Phantoms, for themselves? Oh, how wonderful that would be! I mean, if Ted Neely could continue wowing audiences as Jesus in JCS into his 70s, why not Michael Crawford??
Yolanda Anne Brown Funny you quoting Highlander. I was just thinking of the lost recording of Freddie Mercury himself singing this....hopefully it does exist...
Its wonderful how the thought about the lighting in this performance. Lights the normal part of the face, and covering the other one with shadows where the mask was supposed to be.
After hearing Michael sing this song 30 years ago, I immediately fell in love with him. After seeing this UA-cam video, I've fallen in love with him again. That voice is so haunting -- the perfect phantom!
I don't care because no matter how many people play the Phantom, there will never be anyone better ot greater than Michael Crawford. When he sings this song, from begining to end you are placed in an hypnotic trance. The Music slowly brings you under his spell. Fantastic!!!!
My grandson was not quite eighteen when he played the part of The Phantom and he sure did it justice too. That was in Bendigo Victoria Australia. His name is Mason Hingston.
Hypnotic. Utterly hypnotic. There is a tenderness and wonder in that voice that I havent heard in others, how do you not fall in love with the Phantom after hearing this?
He has amazing control over his voice. I love how smooth and gentle he sounds, especially since this is a lullaby. There's also something so charming and nostalgic about the timbre of his voice. It's just so comforting to listen to.
This is the benchmark for all those who have taken on the role of the Phantom and so far nobody has left a mark on this version, it will take someone special to equal or surpass this version, absolutely beautiful
The way he sings "Only then, can you belong to me" it is so truly fragile and vulnerable and tender. I think MC got that side of the phantom better than any other performer ever did.
No matter who else sings "The Music of the Night" - and I've heard 3 different Phantoms and several other singers perform it - it will always be Michael Crawford's song.
Not only was he , and still is the best phantom but he also was the best Barnum. So caring when he played the Manchester opera house that he came over every night to sing to the children in the hospital opposite. Lovely man.
I was listen to this at work on my computer and one of the kids I work with ask me what is that shit your listening to.... Lets just say they came very close to death! Anyone under 30 has no appreciation of fine music.
I just turned 18, and I've always liked Michael's singing and the play Phantom of the Opera. My grandma passed on alot of her likes down to me, and I'm so glad she did. So let's change that from Anyone under thirty to, "most under thirty." Because yes, I too agree that most young people of my generation lack good taste in music. But there are still some like me who treasure it.
Not especially true! I'm 14 and taking opera singing lessons. I think Michael Crawford is an amazing singer and Phantom Of The Opera is my favorite musical/opera.
It's good to know that young people like your self can see the value in music that can transcend time. I come from a traditional Italian family that has a love for opera music and the Phantom Of The Opera ranks at the top of the list. ^_^
No one sings this song like he does. This is truly "his song". The emotion - even without a Christine and without the costume/makeup - is sooooo incredible. He is the best.
This is real music. Something we don’t see these days it’s a real disgrace what passes for music now days. And for all of you talking about him as frank spencer and how you Can’t get over it there’s nothing too Get over Micheal Crawford. Is a genius. Does all his own stunts is hilarious great actor and as the most haunting beautiful singing voice the kind that no matter how many times you hear it. Over the years it still Has the power too bring tears too Your eyes
The BEST! Period dot. Nobody like Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Everyone else is a very, very distant # 2. Every song the benchmark for all others... Go Michael. Now & always... Love your class, style, voice.
The first time I saw Phantom of the Opera was at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta with him and Sarah Brightman. I was hooked. Bought the cd although the it cost 30.00 dollars. Also matches and a mug that his mask turns white when you add hot liquid. Also have the silent film with Lon Chaney and the 1947 version. Am I a fan?
A legendary comedian and a superlative singer GOD was kind to you Sir Michael and yes i an jealous, if i had a choice i would love to have been able to sing, anyway THANK-YOU, for brightening our short lives.
Rarely has anyone owned a song like Crawford owns this one. Still amazing.
So true
Ted Neely Gethsemane
So very true!!!@@threalismaradona9899
@@threalismaradona9899Many have performed it very well, not like this guy. but some, very, very well.
Michael Crawford is THE Phantom.
None can compare.
I absolutely agree with you, he is the Phantom of the Opera!
Yes. All else 2nd
Most of them forgot to be creepy. It’s a given, the modern trend is the play is a love story with a flawed genius. The genius being attractive is popular with general audience. The acting part can be put aside to focus on vocal performance.
Absolutely.
Without a doubt! No one compares to him.
From a bumbling Frank Spencer to an elegant Phantom, there will never again be an entertainer with such a range. Thank you for blessing us with your talent Michael.
Truly the greatest phantom.
@@lawrencemcinerney397 omg. I could listen to him all nights m lock
I get good bumps
He has a great tenor voice.
For sure
Don't forget that 5 years before he was Frank, he also starred in Hello Dolly as Cornelius Hackl.
i dont care who or how good any singer is....this song belongs to michael. nobody and i mean nobody else can do it justice
Oh yes they most definitely can. Ramin Karimaloo ❤️
No one has Crawford's unique tone. But I do think other singers have done it justice. :) John Owen Jones, Ramin, Norm Lewis. In my opinion.
@@theresachaffey4404 Shut up.
@@warplace7058 I second who the fuck is Ramin Karimaloo
@@threalismaradona9899 a phantom
Anyone else feel Crawford understands the song the best? Yes, he has a remarkable voice.. but to me what puts him over the top is that he knows this song is about the Phantom trying to seduce the girl.. It's not just a song.. There's so much love and depression that Crawford's pace captures perfectly. It's unbelievably moving.
Absolutely agree! 💐
Well said!
The entire role-how hard it would have been to pull off the villainous sinister laugh-he made you believe it
100% its his skills as an actor as well that complete the performance, outstanding, no one did it better
Michael was 67 when he performed this in 2009. An amazing talent and entertainer. Outstanding. A Happy recent 80th!
And he is close to 80 now.
MICHAEL CRAWFORD IS THE FIRST, THE BEST AND THE GREATEST PHANTOM. His voice was gentle and tender like a ghost, caressing like a real seducer and clear and powerful. Nothing equals the original.
I completely agree but I have to say Ramin's voice was powerful and soft at the same time which made it really mesmerizing
Wonderful!
Sorry, I believe Gerard Butler is the best.
ua-cam.com/video/77umP7IRxD4/v-deo.html
Michael Crawford is the only voice I will ever hear when I listen to this song.
Would i lie to you?
He is the true Phantom. Sung with such tenderness and emotion. He truly takes your breath away just listening to him.
He is amazing!!!!
I agree. Just incredible
I was priveleged to see the original London production with the original cast.
I so agree!
I agree
No singer has sung this song like him. He has put in so much tenderness and emotions.
I don't think any will again
2:39
I’m so 2:39 2:39
What must Andrew Lloyd Webber have thought? I do appreciate having lived in these fantastically musical times. Love them all for their genius.
😢
Crawford set the standard for the phantom - no one who followed could match his performance; his interpretation and presentation was truly spectacular.
@rayholding6913 I totally and full heartily agree with you
He is the best.
Yes he is amazing so talented 😊
No one will ever do better
Crawford IS the Phantom, everyone since is an understudy.
The first, and still the best Phantom. I have heard a great many gifted and talented performers sing this song, and this role; and as wonderful as they all are, not one of them can touch the original, Michael Crawford. That high note still causes me to hold my breath, and the chills still shake my spine, especially when he sings the next line: "only then can you belong to me". The ethereal beauty, the power, the pain... they are all there, unmistakably, in one magnificent performance. Michael, no one can touch you.
Of course no one can touch him! He's the Phantom, in other words, a ghost. That's meant as a compliment. ;)
I've seen about 15 guys sing this within the last few days. He's still the best!
Have you listened to Matthew Cammelle?
No but I'll check him out
Wow I just saw him sing this song he did a FANTASTIC job! WOW!
I fully agree!
He's far and away my favorite. I still get chills listening to him with Sarah Brightman!
The definitive performance of arguably the most iconic musical theater song of all-time. No question. Michael Crawford is a legend.
Michael Crawford's absolutely magnificent performance of "Music of the Night" from "Phantom of the Opera" is only equaled in the history of Broadway by Betty Buckley's equally incredible performance of "Memory" from "Cats"! Simply the two greatest- ever Broadway songs in the history of musical theater!
That was nothing short of amazing. Perfect. Michael Crawford is simply incredible.
Claire Clark I remember watching Michael Crawford in Some Mother’s Do Have Them, and was stunned when the character of Frank showed how wonderful a talent he is as the Phantom
Saw him twice. Vocally, dramatically, there is only one Phantom, and that's Michael Crawford.
Oh my god, you SAW him play the PHANTOM? What was it like??
Nobody has answered you. I will. I have and never will forget that evening. I tried like hell to get out of going to see it at the LA Music Center as my wife and I were in the process of separating but no luck as my in-laws, who were patrons, had a long and elaborate formal evening planned for months. For this venue Michael performed with Dale Christian and my seat was directly under where the chandelier settled after coming off the stage. I worried about that. I was absolutely stunned by the flawless professionalism of all the players and crew but the voices of the two were beyond anything I've heard to date in a recording and Michael's voice was much more powerful and far reaching in range, live, than what you hear here. All I knew of Michael Crawford prior to this was that he had minor roles in western movies. Needles to say, I have been a devotee of Michael's music ever since that evening. As an aside, I have mentally been kicking myself in the rear every time I remember almost talking my way out of going to this performance, like now. Happy Thanksgiving-Tim (I see you perform in NYC. You may know Michael Rupert?)
Tim Smith
Thanks so much for writing! I got to see him in "The Go-Between" in London recently *TWICE* and can agree with you about the voice. He's much older now, but there was a depth and passion in him that is still palpable, even at his age. He cried both times. Literally cried! That was incredible to see. I can only imagine what that energy and voice would be like to see live in Phantom! I would give anything to have seen him. There aren't any really clear recordings of him doing it live, so I can only imagine. Yes. Michael will always be my most favorite performer and singer. His work and his voice hold a special place in my life! I was a newborn baby when he first took the stage on Broadway. I think my parents saw him, but neither of them remember much!
MC: *flashes a Nelson Eddy charming smile*
"Well, Andrew, I think you've got your handsome young nobleman."
ALW: "Yes, we hired him last week. We want YOU to be the Phantom!"
MC: "What??? You mean, the ugly, old...? ...For over 1,300 performances I donned the mask and the cape."
^^ My favourite story from this performance. :D
i would of loved to have seen him.
I like how he is gentle yet powerful. His voice, i mean.
I feel like his voice is too whispy and weak and not powerful at all.
Riley Kaye You can feel that way but you are absolutely incorrect. Have you seen the show and do you understand the context?
bgmpt Oh, yes, definitely. I know the show as it's one of my favorites. I just believe a more stronger voice would of been better. However, I suppose he did sounds somewhat okay in Music Of The Night, however, any others, in my opinion, needed more power.
Riley Kaye The female heart prefers to be seduced by a soft caressing voice such as Michael uses here, except after the passion builds when he begins more intense. But then I am just a women of 82 who has experienced life so what do I know? So if you want a woman to love you intimately just go shout in her ear and see where that gets you.
Riley Kaye Stronger voice ! answered easily Anthony Warlow
Nothing better!! NOTHING. BETTER!!!!! Oh my word, the perfection that is Michael Crawford as the Phantom. I first heard him sing this at 11 years old, on the sound track, and I was smitten, and now 26 years later, the goosebumps are still relentless!! He IS Erik. I love how the right side of his face is shadowed during this performance, reminiscent of the mask.
keelieak same
Very perceptive of you on the lighting.
As Michael has always said....”I am an actor who can sing.” He gave birth to this role. Those who followed, while some wonderful, did not have the connection at the heart that MC gave this role. If anyone has ever had the wonderful chance of meeting him in person you realize this is a man that gives 1000% to everything he does. Genuine, humble and so gracious and giving. Moved to tears when something touches his heart and not afraid to show it. Love everything he has ever done! Phantom, Cornelius Hackle, Frank Spencer, even Dave Finn in ‘Chalk and Cheese’ which his grandmother hated. I miss him.
Many years ago, my sister and I saw Michael, along with Sarah Brightman perform "The Phantom" in Norfolk, VA This was definitely the very best version and the best performance I've ever attended. I saw "The Phantom" much later, same place, and while it was good, it was full of pyrotechnics and the voices were nownere like the very talented originals here. Bravo Michael and Sarah!!!
Michael Crawford is the benchmark of all the actors who played Phantom. so far, Michael is the best of all Phantoms...
Allen Rhymer why
We can only ponder as to why this individual chose this course of action. Albeit on the internet, I must say that it has been a while since I`ve seen this particular type of behavior. Be it adolescence, containing therein an amusement like in the form of humor, or some other unknown motive. I must confess, in my own youth I sprayed pictures of male genitalia and similar jpeg`s on the walls of de_dust(1 and 2) frequently. So what I`m trying to convey is; in spite of having been an idiot, I still can`t see what Allen Rhymer got out of this.
Agreed!
I agree too. Michael Crawford's voice is unique and memorable. When I was young I saw "the music of the night-1986" record of Michael on TV. I was shocked by the mystery and powerful voice. He is a really wonderful and outstanding phantom.
Stale Frenk gotta love the de_dust classics
Michael Crawford ruined me for Musical Theater. People around me enjoyed the Phantom movies, but I see Gerard Butler or Antonio Banderas play the phantom... I laugh. Crawford's voice is wispy, sultry, powerful, "Phantasmal." Honestly some of the best casting in an original production I've ever seen.
10/10
People see the Movie and say Butler and Rossum are the best. Honest to God they do. I weep for them.
TristanandIsolt I used to think they were the best. I still like their voices, but John Owen Jones, Hugh Panero, and Micheal Crawford are definitely some of my favorites.
Crawford and Brightman were perfect.
Michael Crawford gives such an emotional, nuanced performance of this song. He conveys so much emotion in his voice. This is absolute perfection.
Whenever I hear this piece I cry
The best Phantom, no questions!?
@@mickday5234 no question! he was the best
Simply amazing talent
Perfection personified!
Uncomparable, unique in his range of talents,a human God on planet earth!
Well done and keep it up till the fat lady sings!!!
I've listened to the original recording so many times that I've accidentally memorized virtually every nuance, and amazingly, he sings it almost as beautifully, purely, emotionally, and chillingly as he did nearly 30 years ago. Very few vocalists can perform night in and night out for years as he did and still sing this well decades later. Bravo!
jhssuthrnmama oh yes, I know this is true. His instrument as powerful as it was 30 years ago - what an achievement.
Leeft hij nog
Phanthom is not about the voice is about the feelings. Need to be hypnotic, tender. Not need a mega-voice-tenor. Need an actor. Well: Michael Crowford. That's all. Many people have better voice than John Lennon, but only one can play "Imagine" like him. That's the question for me.
I like Sissel's version better...
@@na1959 Is the word you're looking for intonations? Also, I totally agree, he really puts thought into every lyric and still makes it seem natural and not stagey.
He is the best Phantom. His voice is haunting and almost ghostly. And when he sings this song he sounds so vulnerable rather than most other Phantoms who seem to go towards anger and power rather than that soft ghostly tone that has pain and power behind it. Wish I could've seen him play the Phantom with Sarah Brightman. Her voice was something else
!
Beautifully put. I never saw them play Phantom either, and really wish I had.
I vote for a reunion show! I'd pay A LOT to see Sarah and Michael revamp their roles!
And what better time than this year? This October marks "Phantom's" 30th anniversary. At least have Michael and Sarah perform this song as a duet!
Yeah that should be good but I don't think Crawford whould be up to it vocally.
He IS THE Phantom of the Opera, the musical!!! LOVE HIM, one of the best male singers I've EVER HEARD. :-D
Frank finally found a job he can do.
Kristin Burton ...I know! His wife must be so proud of him! Bravo 👏 Frank Spencer!
No longer being harassed either
@@vivianperino5006 good job Spencer
Haha
🤣🤣ya! True
Let's not forget the true genius...Andrew Lloyd Webber...for writing the best musical ever written. All else pales!
Um, I'm not knocking on either Phantom or Lord Webber but, what about Lin-Manuel Miranda and Hamilton? I know Phantom has been running ten times longer than Hamilton, but in my opinion Hamilton is on the same level as Phantom. I wouldn't say that Hamilton pales near Phantom, no they'd just sing together. The historical Alexander Hamilton did sing with his family. ;)
Best plagiarism ever! Also thanks for messing with better people’s lyrics, ALW.
So true.!
@@youtubingjaguar5082 Hamilton...pales. You are welcome.
@@illuminatorlumina4694 And you have been a crybaby since when? LOL...
I have heard many others who played the Phantom, but no one can touch the emotion of the character or song as Michael Crawford did. Oh yes, powerful voices have sung it, and if you just prefer that then maybe you prefer another, but never has any other touch my heart and made me cry as Michael does each time I hear and see him sing this song. His rendition, body movements, expressions, everything says "Phantom," he owns this and always will!!
Absolutely. Same here :)
Mary Leverock 08
Such genuine interpretation, the phrases are full of meaning, feeling, it’s the character of the Phantom coming through in every word. Bravo Michael. The reaction from the audience is also genuine, they applaud with great enthusiasm, pride and satisfaction.
The audience released they had just witnessed something truly extraordinary. A performance they’ll likely never see again. One of the best musical performances of all time.
You can be sarcastic ...... You can try to be funny .... But there was no better phantom ........ Fact !
I totally agree. He is the best!
0808zone gotta agree, though I'm not an expert on the subject. Watching this for the first time, incredible what the guy does with his body, and his MOUTH . . .remembering that he was wearing the half mask and didn't have the rest of his face with which to convey expression. True master work! Watching over and over, such a great job.
0808zone Agreed
0808zone Michael Crawford IS the phantom. It's just a fact of life. It's so funny listening to him sing anything that isn't from PotO because then it just sounds like the Phantom singing random songs.
0808zone I agree that was the best singer, until Ramin came along. Crawford is the best singer to ever play the Phantom, but Ramin captures character of the Phantom better. The sadness, anger and grittiness. Crawford's voice is too angelic.
I’m a singer myself, love singing and I’ve tried a hundred times now to hold some of those notes on one breathe like he does. It’s impossible, I need two breathes to sustain the note. Love his vocal and performance on this. Truly amazing
Look into breathing exercises. A choir teacher taught us to take a big breath in while pushing out your stomach, to fill your diaphragm, and fill your lungs at the same time .
I know you know. Keep working on it if it’s important to you. YOU’LL ACHIEVE your GOAL.. I applaud 👏 👏 👏 you.
There's a metal singer who sang this& did that. Amazing.
He practiced this one one song for hours every day for a year.
@@jeaniehamilton5548
Pianists would also practice every day for several hours for a single performance. Ballet dancers work hard to make it look easy. That's the discipline of the arts and same with the sciences.
I solely understand what you've felt. I am a night time cafe-singer and love this rendition. Attempts of a lot of times I failed, but the whole practice makes me happy even I mess the tune. The tunes' energy itself gives me the strength to carry on my humble music journey.
Arguably the most sensational male opera vocalist of all time! His range, depth, and control are legendary! No other performer of the Phantom of The Opera came anywhere near his passion and power!
If we’re really talking in terms of the greatest male opera singers, Crawford doesn’t even come close. That’s not to say he isn’t special in his own way, though.
This isn’t opera. It’s Broadway. He’s excellent in this musical but he’s a far cry from Pavarotti.
No-one can beat our Michael Crawford HE IS THE VOICE OF THE SHOW. So powerfully sung. Grand job mate.
Ramin, JOJ, and Hugh are amazing Phantoms,I love them to death! But NONE can compare to THE Phantom, Michael Crawford!
He is , was, and will always be the best Phantom of the Opera, his range and articulation is amazing. He brought all the songs to life, you could feel the passion, pain, and hope the Phantom had through his voice. Thank you Michael and Sarah for sharing your wonderful talent with the world.
Standing ovation, clapping your hands, stomping your feet and shooting guns into the ceiling-This IS the "Music of the Night!"
Jimmy Frost i
Seriously, I can't find another who can perform this song as brilliantly. His depth and emotion are unmatched. Nevermind the fact that his performance is so consistent!
There's a tenderness to his voice that's very unique, it's so beautiful because of it.
IS TENDERNESS WHAT IT'S REALLY CALLED? LOL
this man has a perfect voice
come on ... he's a good broadway singer ....the voice is not perfect
All the more impressive when you consider how he sounded in 'Hello Dolly' (the movie)
He’s so sensational. His voice so angelic and powerful sends shivers up through my spine! Bravo,Michael Crawford!!!! So enchanting.
Wow I love this song and it melts my heart anytime I listen to it. Are you a music lover❤️❤️?
@@marcog6056 Yes I am. I love operatic, classical, country, some pop music in the early days, folk, and jazz. I also have the original soundtrack of Phantom of the Opera with Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman singing with the rest of the London Cast.
@@annecohen8927 wow that's awesome and beautiful ❤️ you are truly a music lover 💕
@@annecohen8927 where are you from?
the daddy of all phantoms!!!!!!!!!!!!
He IS the Phantom. I absolutely love how he still uses his hands as if still in character. Love him!
it's just wow. and x factor is the hype? really. this is true music. Michael Crawford is pure magic. his voice is outstanding
My ex's name is Layla. Only other time I've seen it. Pretty name.
And to think he never had any proper training
I hope he does the role again. This past December he said he would love to reprise the Phantom again
Oh, my.... yes!! If his health and voice allow, wouldn't it be wonderful to reprise the role, just once more, for perhaps a virtual performance... available online, free, for the world?!? Then, release it on DVD, for everyone to finally own a copy of the OG, the first and best of all Phantoms, for themselves? Oh, how wonderful that would be! I mean, if Ted Neely could continue wowing audiences as Jesus in JCS into his 70s, why not Michael Crawford??
Arla Dicey exactly, Michael is 78, and said he still does MOTN in the original key
@@phantomphan873 it would be wonderful...
no one can match him as Phantom of the Opera--will love him forever!
Check Matthew Cammelle and Mark McKerracher.
Michael became the phantom. No one is equal to him. His voice was made for the role
When he sings BE oh my every time I get goosebumps.
No contest, no comparisons, he owns this song
To quote from "Highlander": THERE CAN BE ONLY 1. Michael Crawford OWNS this.
Yolanda Anne Brown Funny you quoting Highlander. I was just thinking of the lost recording of Freddie Mercury himself singing this....hopefully it does exist...
+Yolanda Anne Brown AMEN!
Its wonderful how the thought about the lighting in this performance.
Lights the normal part of the face, and covering the other one with shadows where the mask was supposed to be.
I was fortunate enough to see Phantom with Michael Crawford, a memory that I cherish.
Frank Spencer can sing omg
Georgia Bowring1 I know. My cat did a whoopsie when he started singing.
😀😀
He's like a magician with his hands.
After hearing Michael sing this song 30 years ago, I immediately fell in love with him. After seeing this UA-cam video, I've fallen in love with him again. That voice is so haunting -- the perfect phantom!
I feel privileged to have seen the original phantom of the opera with Michael and Sarah .
I saw the original, DC and Chicago performances, and nothing compares to Michael and Sarah
@@maryellis3244 SAW THEM BOTH IN LOS ANGELES AND WOW OH WOW!!
I don't care because no matter how many people play the Phantom, there will never be anyone better ot greater than Michael Crawford. When he sings this song, from begining to end you are placed in an hypnotic trance. The Music slowly brings you under his spell. Fantastic!!!!
This man is truly phenomenal. His performance is absolutely mesmerising.
My grandson was not quite eighteen when he played the part of The Phantom and he sure did it justice too. That was in Bendigo Victoria Australia. His name is Mason Hingston.
Michael Crawford is terrific in singing The Music of the Night, my favorite song from Phantom of the Opera!!
Michael Crawford is incredible. I can't imagine any other voice playing the Phantom.
Hypnotic. Utterly hypnotic. There is a tenderness and wonder in that voice that I havent heard in others, how do you not fall in love with the Phantom after hearing this?
He has amazing control over his voice. I love how smooth and gentle he sounds, especially since this is a lullaby. There's also something so charming and nostalgic about the timbre of his voice. It's just so comforting to listen to.
I saw him opening night on Broadway. No one can top his voice. Still gives me chills & thrills to hear his voice.
First & Best Phantom ever. I feel his "The music of the night" is sweeter & sadder than Ramin's.
always imagine the first time Llloyd Webber heard Crawford sing this song. He must have had serious goosebumps from that haunting voice
Years after leaving the play, Crawford can still mesmerize an audience with Music of the Night. Brilliant.
Crawford singing: "The Music Of The Night" is the one who makes my heart feel the song and what it's about. Love it.
MR Crawford, the original, the best.
I can't put my finger on it - but I just love the way Crawford sings. He absolutely enchants and mesmerizes me
Breathtaking, passionate performance from this much loved, talented man.
We are so blessed. Thank you Michael. ❤ 👏👏👏💐
Thank you ❤️
Superb Michael..you should be knighted for services to the entertainment and Music industry. You are a man of so many talents. Thankyou so much.
WHAT AN INCREDIBLE GIFT TO POSSESS ... SPEECHLESS TO COMMENT ON HIS PERFORMANCE!
This is the benchmark for all those who have taken on the role of the Phantom and so far nobody has left a mark on this version, it will take someone special to equal or surpass this version, absolutely beautiful
purely magical.....love the way they shadowed one side of his face
The way he sings "Only then, can you belong to me" it is so truly fragile and vulnerable and tender. I think MC got that side of the phantom better than any other performer ever did.
Am I the only one who loves the way he sings "thoughts" in "leave all thoughts of the world you knew before" ?
Nope! :D
+Grace R nope!!! :)
Has anyone else noticed that the right side of his face is still in a silhouette? It's like he's still wearing the mask
The phrasing is heart wrenching as only Crawford can do. "Only then can you belong to me".... impeccable!
Wow I love this song and it melts my heart anytime I listen to it. Are you a music lover❤️❤️?
Well, he's an angel of music, indeed.
No matter who else sings "The Music of the Night" - and I've heard 3 different Phantoms and several other singers perform it - it will always be Michael Crawford's song.
s
It was written with him in mind and, truly, he IS the phantom.
This is actually false- Phantom of the Opera was written for Colm Wilkinson, but he had already signed on for Les Miserables and couldn't do it.
Braden Menke Good thing, too. Colm's voice is more fitting for Les Mis than Phantom.
He will always be the gold standard for this play. No one comes in second he is incredible.
Not only was he , and still is the best phantom but he also was the best Barnum.
So caring when he played the Manchester opera house that he came over every night to sing to the children in the hospital opposite. Lovely man.
I was listen to this at work on my computer and one of the kids I work with ask me what is that shit your listening to.... Lets just say they came very close to death! Anyone under 30 has no appreciation of fine music.
I just turned 18, and I've always liked Michael's singing and the play Phantom of the Opera. My grandma passed on alot of her likes down to me, and I'm so glad she did. So let's change that from Anyone under thirty to, "most under thirty." Because yes, I too agree that most young people of my generation lack good taste in music. But there are still some like me who treasure it.
Not especially true! I'm 14 and taking opera singing lessons. I think Michael Crawford is an amazing singer and Phantom Of The Opera is my favorite musical/opera.
It's good to know that young people like your self can see the value in music that can transcend time. I come from a traditional Italian family that has a love for opera music and the Phantom Of The Opera ranks at the top of the list. ^_^
I'm 21 and have always been in love with POTO -____-
I'm 15 (turning 16) and this is my lullaby XD in love with POTO yes.
No one sings this song like he does. This is truly "his song". The emotion - even without a Christine and without the costume/makeup - is sooooo incredible. He is the best.
would give anything to sing with him, i know there are other phantoms but michael will always be my phantom and this gave me chills
Lorelle i would pay anything to see the original cast perform
FACTS!!!
Aloha, what an amazing other world voice Michael has. Thank you Sir Andrew, for your unsurpassed talent 🎼❣️
I think even Loyed Weber couldn't imagine how wonderful his masterpiece could turn out to be when he first wowed by Crawford's astonishing express...
He will always be the Phantom of the Opera!
This is real music. Something we don’t see these days it’s a real disgrace what passes for music now days. And for all of you talking about him as frank spencer and how you
Can’t get over it there’s nothing too
Get over
Micheal Crawford. Is a genius. Does all his own stunts is hilarious great actor and as the most haunting beautiful singing voice the kind that no matter how many times you hear it. Over the years it still
Has the power too bring tears too
Your eyes
The BEST! Period dot. Nobody like Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Everyone else is a very, very distant # 2. Every song the benchmark for all others...
Go Michael. Now & always... Love your class, style, voice.
Michael and Sarah both paved the way and made the Phantom the hit that carries on today yet 26 yrs later and still counting. Thank you for this video.
i still see him as frank spencer, it's so funny hearing him sing like this
Such a talent we never see much of.
Impossible to unsee
Me Too.....But he's amazing !!
That’s acting 👍
Perhaps well past time for you to see things more clearly.
The first time I saw Phantom of the Opera was at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta with him and Sarah Brightman. I was hooked. Bought the cd although the it cost 30.00 dollars. Also matches and a mug that his mask turns white when you add hot liquid. Also have the silent film with Lon Chaney and the 1947 version. Am I a fan?
Just a tad of a fan. Lol
I have the CD of the opera - and it was Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman - Beautiful. Would have loved to see it in reality.
WOW he is like 62 and he can still sing like this man he is amazing!
you can never take your eyes off his face when he starts to sing. these are all human emotions about. MC s definitely my fav phantom!!!
talent at its fucking finest pure magic
Truth.
I actually got to see him perform. He was magical live❄ I had no idea how amazing he would be. He owns phantom always and 4ever 🦋💙
Effortless, elegant, perfection, outstanding, totally mesmerising. No other phantom has came close to being as fantastic as Michael. Oh Betty lol
I agree with your comment entirely. ☺
Michael Crawford is the ORIGINAL Phantom!
You would never have thought that Frank could have such a fantastic voice..
A legendary comedian and a superlative singer GOD was kind to you Sir Michael and yes i an jealous, if i had a choice i would love to have been able to sing, anyway THANK-YOU, for brightening our short lives.
This man lives and breaths every single word of everything he sings like no other.
He makes it so believable!