by BRIANNA SICILIANO Staff Writer
The British invasion continues as U.K. superstar Olly Murs sings his way into the hearts of Americans. On April 16, Murs released his first album in America, and began his first US tour on April 19.
This year is Murs’ year to steal the hearts of Americans. Murs released his first U.S. album “Right Place Right Time.” The album includes songs from all three of his U.K. albums.
Within nine hours of being released, “Right Place Right Time” climbed its way to the top five albums on iTunes.
Murs has done a few album signings since his album’s release, giving him the opportunity to sell albums and meet his fans. Yet the album is not the only exciting experience in his life right now.
On April 19, Murs kicked off his first American tour in Maryland. With 13 dates scattered around the states, he was ready to spread his talent.
Before his singing career, Murs worked in an office giving people advice on how to save money on their energy bills.
In 2009, Murs auditioned for “The X Factor.” He was asked what his big dream was and came back with an answer many people would say, but not many would live up to: “…to be a popstar, and be famous, and sell records, and be an international superstar.”
Olly performed “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder and received four yeses from the judges. He sang his heart out at the finals, where he was awarded runner-up.
In February 2010, Murs signed a joint record deal with Syco Music and Epic Records. He released his first album in the U.K. “Please Don’t Let Me Go” in August that year, and in 2011 he released his second album “In Case You Didn’t Know.”
In 2012, Murs accompanied British sensations One Direction on their first North American tour. He opened for the boy band and spread his music to fans around the world.
The same year, Murs was signed to Syco Music and Columbia Records in America, which released his first US single “Heart Skips a Beat” (featuring Chiddy Bang). The song was a summer hit and stood in the top 40 charts for weeks.
Although “Heart Skips A Beat” was a success, it is nothing compared to his well-known hit “Troublemaker.”
“‘Troublemaker’ is so catchy. It has a Maroon Five vibe, which is one of my favorite bands. When I found out it was Olly Murs, I was in shock. The man has talent,” said sophomore Corinne Franchette.
On April 20, I was fortunate enough to see Olly live in Pennsylvania. Murs does not only sing, but he puts on a show. There is not a dull second while he is on stage.
From beginning to end, Olly interacts with his fans and makes sure everyone has a blast.
After recent events with the Boston Marathon, Murs decided to dedicate one of his most heartfelt songs “Hand On Heart” to the victims of the tragedy.
“Olly is someone to keep an eye out for. He has true talent and his songs are genius. This is his year to shine,” said freshman Toni Rothchild.
What do you think of Olly Murs’ album?
Comentarios