by Frank Sinatra was one of the most iconic entertainers of the 20th century. With his sophisticated vocal style and passionate interpretations of classic American songs, Sinatra left an indelible mark on popular music. While he passed away in 1998, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists. Perhaps no one has embraced Sinatra’s influence more than Canadian singer Michael Bublé. Throughout his career, Bublé has looked to Sinatra as a role model and consciously modeled aspects of his own music-making after the legendary crooner.
The Great American Songbook
At the core of Sinatra and Bublé’s repertoire is the Great American Songbook – the collection of popular songs written in the early 20th century, during the Tin Pan Alley era. These songs, crafted by legendary songwriters like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin, told stories of love and heartbreak through memorable melodies and clever lyrics. Sinatra helped introduce these songs to a wider audience and championed the Songbook throughout his career.
Bublé has followed suit, making the Songbook standards a cornerstone of his own music. His 2003 self-titled debut was primarily comprised of Songbook tunes like “Fever,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” and “Fly Me to the Moon.” Subsequent albums like It’s Time (2005) and Call Me Irresponsible (2007) also featured interpretations of classic songs from Porter, Gershwin, and other Songbook greats.
By highlighting these timeless songs, Bublé has introduced them to new generations of fans who may have been unfamiliar with the Songbook previously. His youthful energy and contemporary arrangements bring a fresh perspective while still honoring the original spirit of the songs. Just as Sinatra helped popularize these works decades ago, Bublé is keeping the Songbook tradition alive.
Vocal Style and Emotional Delivery
Beyond the song selection, Bublé also models his vocal approach after Sinatra. Sinatra was renowned for his smooth, expressive baritone and his impeccable phrasing. He understood how to deliver lyrics in a way that conveyed the precise emotion of any given moment. Bublé emulates this sophistication through his own singing.
With a similarly clean and resonant tone, Bublé interprets these classic songs in a way that highlights the story being told. He breathes life and feeling into every word through subtle vocal shadings. Live, Bublé also demonstrates Sinatra-esque control, hitting every note with precision while maintaining conversational intimacy with his audience. On recordings, Bublé’s vocal takes center stage amid sparser arrangements that allow his interpretations to shine.
This emphasis on using the voice to communicate emotion is a key part of Sinatra’s legacy. Through his own skilled vocals, Bublé carries on this tradition of letting the lyrics do the talking in a sophisticated yet accessible manner.
Swinging Style and Big Band Flair
In addition to vocals, Sinatra was also known for helping popularize the “swing” style of jazz and popular music in the 1940s. Characterized by driving rhythms, horn sections, and a sense of joyous energy, swing perfectly complemented Sinatra’s charismatic stage presence. Bublé incorporates this swinging big band flair into his own musical DNA.
Many of Bublé’s albums, like It’s Time and Crazy Love, feature prominent horn sections and arrangements evoking the sounds of the swing and jazz eras. Songs take on new life through bouncy piano lines, brassy accents, and a strong backbeat that keeps listeners moving. On stage, Bublé is also accompanied by bands that help recreate the exuberant atmosphere of a classic Sinatra concert.
By fusing swinging styles with his interpretations of classic pop tunes, Bublé bridges eras to keep Sinatra’s legacy current. His music honors history while feeling fresh and vibrant. The big band elements he embraces help tell the story just as much as his vocals do.
Showmanship and Charisma
Beyond the music itself, Sinatra also set the standard as one of the greatest live performers and entertainers of all time. He exuded an inimitable charisma and connected with audiences through witty banter, palpable emotion, and a natural charm. Bublé clearly learned from Sinatra in this regard as well.
On stage, Bublé is a consummate showman. He engages crowds with humor, warmth and passion. Like Sinatra, he seems completely at ease under the spotlight. Concerts feature dynamic arrangements alongside spontaneous asides that make each show feel like an event. Bublé also demonstrates a knack for selecting the right songs to fit each moment and keep energy high.
This ability to captivate and involve audiences through sheer personality has become a hallmark of Bublé’s live shows. Fans flock to his concerts for an experience, not just a performance. By channeling Sinatra’s masterful showmanship, Bublé ensures each live date feels like both an homage and a celebration.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Over 15 years into his career, Michael Bublé has proven himself one of the most successful artists to emerge in Sinatra’s shadow. By thoughtfully integrating key parts of Sinatra’s approach – from the Songbook, to vocals, to swinging arrangements and charismatic presence – Bublé has been able to keep Sinatra’s enduring legacy fresh.
At the same time, Bublé injects his own style. He brings a youthful exuberance and contemporary flair that makes these classic songs resonate with new audiences. In the process, Bublé has carved out his own iconic status while paying tribute to one of his greatest influences.
Through his music and live performances, Michael Bublé ensures Frank Sinatra’s magic continues to inspire. He proves that with the right combination of reverence, talent and passion, an artist can embrace another’s legacy while making it their own. Bublé’s career stands as a testament to the timelessness of Sinatra’s artistry and its ability to live on through new generations of music makers.
