by Michael Bublé: The Playful Side of a Crooning Romantic
Michael Bublé is known around the world as a smooth-voiced crooner who brings romance to the stage with his soulful renditions of classic love songs. Tracks like “Home” and “Everything” showcase his ability to deliver emotional lyrics with heartfelt sincerity. However, there is another side to Bublé that often gets overlooked – his playful spirit. While he is certainly a master of swoon-worthy serenades, the Canadian singer also has a fun-loving, cheeky personality that shines through in his music and performances. Upon closer examination, it becomes clear there is more than meets the eye when it comes to Bublé’s artistry.
Witty Lyrics
One way Bublé’s playful side manifests is through his witty lyrics. Songs like “It’s a Beautiful Day” from his 2011 album Christmas find him injecting humor into the words. In the track, he sings about relaxing in his pajamas and enjoying simple pleasures like a cup of coffee – a far cry from heavy-hearted romantic ballads. The lighthearted lyrics provide a comedic contrast to his usual emotive style.
A prime example is the song “Haven’t Met You Yet” from his 2009 self-titled album. In the pre-chorus, Bublé uses amusing metaphors to describe the anticipation of finding love:
“I’m thinking maybe you’ll be the one that stays
Time, time is gonna tell, gonna tell
I’ve been waiting for so long, for something to arrive
For love to come along, now our dreams are coming true”
The play on words with “time” creates a fun, cheeky element in an otherwise romantic tune. It’s a testament to Bublé’s ability to infuse humor into even the most sentimental of topics.
Teasing Delivery
In addition to witty lyrics, Bublé often employs a teasing delivery style that adds charm and playfulness to his vocals. He has mastered the art of conveying cheekiness through subtle nuances in his phrasing and tone. A prime example is on “Haven’t Met You Yet” during the pre-chorus when he sings the lines “Time, time is gonna tell” with a wink and nudge in his voice.
Similarly, on tracks like “Everything” and “Home” from his album To Be Loved, he’ll occasionally insert a flirtatious lilt or suggestive raise of his eyebrows into certain phrases. It’s a testament to his vocal dexterity that he can imbue romantic lyrics with a layer of playful charm. Even when pouring his heart out, Bublé finds a way to keep things light with his teasing delivery.
Unexpected Covers
Part of what makes Bublé’s covers so compelling is that he often puts his own spin on well-known songs, injecting elements of surprise. Whether it’s taking on chart-toppers from other genres or putting a new twist on classic tunes, he finds creative ways to make the songs his own. A prime example is his jazz-infused cover of the Backstreet Boys’ 1999 hit “I Want It That Way” from his 2011 Christmas album.
By putting his unique stamp on the boy band favorite, he breathes new life into the track with smooth vocal runs and a laidback groove. It’s a testament to Bublé’s versatility that he can transform a bubblegum pop song into a smoky lounge number. Similarly, his rendition of the Bee Gees’ “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” from his 2009 album brings a fresh perspective to the disco classic with his sultry tone and soulful phrasing.
Through unexpected covers, Bublé asserts his playful spirit of surprise. Rather than playing it safe with straightforward remakes, he boldly puts his creative spin on songs, keeping listeners on their toes. The unexpected nature of some of his cover choices only enhances their novelty.
Stage Presence
Bublé’s live performances provide some of the clearest glimpses into his playful personality. Concert videos show him effortlessly engaging the audience with witty banter filled with comedic timing and charm between songs. He cracks jokes, pokes fun at himself, and generally exudes a fun-loving energy that draws fans in.
For example, at a 2011 show in Vancouver, he teased a fan in the front row about her outfit, quipping “You look like you just rolled out of bed, love! I like your style.” Moments like this display his quick wit and ability to connect with crowds through lighthearted interaction. He also frequently dances joyfully along to the music, whether with backup dancers or fans in the front row.
His high-energy performances feel more like lively parties than stuffy concerts. Even when singing emotional ballads, Bublé finds a way to inject moments of playfulness through animated facial expressions, exaggerated gestures, and lively dancing. It’s clear he takes as much joy in entertaining audiences as they do in watching him. Through his charismatic stage presence, Bublé brings his fun-loving spirit to the live setting.
Playfulness in Artistry
While Michael Bublé will likely always be associated most with his romantic crooning abilities, it’s evident there is much more depth to his artistry. Upon closer examination of his lyrics, vocal delivery, unexpected covers, and lively stage presence, one discovers an underlying playful streak that enhances his music. Whether injecting witty wordplay, teasing with subtle vocal nuances, putting surprising spins on classics, or engaging crowds with lively banter, Bublé infuses elements of fun into even his most sentimental material.
Rather than sticking solely to tried-and-true formulas, he boldly experiments and surprises listeners. There is an adventurous spirit to his creative choices. Through blending playfulness with romance, Bublé asserts his versatility and multidimensional talents. He understands that keeping things lighthearted, even in small doses, helps keep audiences fully engaged. The result is a dynamic body of work that resonates across generations thanks to its ability to stir hearts as well as bring smiles. In the end, Bublé proves there is joy to be found in both love and laughter – a balanced philosophy that elevates his artistry. While his crooning skills bring romance, it is his playful streak that brings lasting fun and charm.
