Andrea Bocelli Duets With American Idol Star For A ‘Prayer’ Like No Other

Apr 23, 2020

For the past 20 years, Andrea Bocelli has left audiences awestruck with his amazing performances. Regarded by some as the greatest tenor in history, Bocelli is said to bear the voice of God. Throughout his years as a performer, Bocelli has sung duets with some of the greatest female singers of the modern age. Among the most famous singing partners of the revered maestro are Celine Dion, Sarah Brightman, and Katharine McPhee. It was with McPhee that Bocelli performed “The Prayer” on May 23, 2008 in a concert for the ages.

Bocelli originally performed “The Prayer” with Dion in 1998 for the animated film Quest for Camelot. Bocelli and Dion’s version was celebrated by music lovers of all ages and even won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song, Today reports. As time went by, “The Prayer” was covered by numerous artists. Just a few months before Bocelli’s duet with McPhee, Dion herself released a new version with Josh Groban. While all versions of “The Prayer” are amazing in their own unique way, none could seemingly match the glory of the original until Bocelli stepped on stage with McPhee.

McPhee is famous in her own right, particularly with audiences in the United States. Now a professional singer and actress, McPhee burst onto the music scene as a contestant on season 5 of American Idol. It was because of her amazing work on the reality competition show that McPhee was invited to perform with Bocelli.

Taking place at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas in 2008, the one night only concert was organized by David Foster, the writer of “The Prayer,” and featured many of the biggest acts in the music industry. In addition to Bocelli and McPhee, the concert also saw performances by Celine Dion, Michael Buble, Josh Groban, and many others.

When it came time for Bocelli and McPhee to take the stage, the two singers were greeted by thunderous applause from the assembled crowd, who could all tell that they were in for a treat. As the song’s iconic piano and instrumental opening begins, McPhee starts singing and is soon joined by Bocelli. Just as the song reaches its crescendo, Bocelli and McPhee’s powerful voices work in harmonious unison and create a picture of beauty and hope. Watching the video and hearing the two voices together, it is impossible to not be enraptured by the beauty of the lyrics and the heavenly melody.

All in all, Bocelli and McPhee’s rendition of “The Prayer” is one that speaks to the very soul of the listener. The song’s message recalls the happiest moments of our lives and is a reminder to always look for the light shining in the darkness.

 What do you think of Bocelli and McPhee’s duet? Are you a fan of either artist? What is your favorite version of “The Prayer”? Be sure to pass this on to others so they can hear the amazing rendition, too!