In a video viewed over 45 million times on YouTube, Michael Buble can be seen performing a sumptuous duet with the Italian singer Laura Pausini. This took place in 2005 at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles. Buble engaged with the audience before the track, jokingly warning one enthusiastic fan, “Mother, if you come and drink and scream at the shows anymore…” An audience member then wiped Buble’s face with a towel, before wiping his sweat onto her own face, much to everyone’s amusement.
The Canadian jazz singer carried on the comic tone by pretending to be a Western Gunslinger, drawing two microphones from his pockets. “This is exciting for me,” he said as he introduced Pausini. “She is a huge international star. She has sold millions and millions and zillions of records…” He then wore a mock-pained expression before delivering the sad punchline, “…way more than I have.” Walking arm in arm, the two launched into their version of “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine”.
Buble and Pausini then sang the romantic song beautifully together, often staring into each other’s eyes while delivering the lines. As the song finished, the audience cheered in rapture as the two singers held hands and took in the applause. In broken English, the Italian singer said, “That rock!” before pointing at Buble and saying, “This guy rock!” Never one to miss a comic opportunity, Buble – who also has Italian heritage – put on an Italian accent to say, “She rock!”
The song “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” was originally a hit song for R&B singer Lou Rawls. It featured on his 1976 album “All Things in Time” and reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a single. Buble is often credited with rejuvenating interest in traditional pop songs for audiences in the 21st century. His musical influences – such as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Dean Martin – reflect his love of crooner hits for which he too would become famous.
This duet appeared on Buble’s live album “Caught in the Act”, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. The concert featured guest appearances from Chris Botti and Josh Groban. However, his duet with Pausini has had the most lasting impact, showcasing both Buble’s comic talent and the romantic croon that has made him a household name worldwide.