by The Phone Call That Changed Everything: How Michael Bublé Landed David Foster and Rocketed to Stardom
Michael Bublé is now one of the best-selling jazz artists of all time, with over 75 million records sold worldwide. But his path to superstardom nearly didn’t happen, and it took one fateful cold call to turn things around. In 2000, the Canadian singer was at a crossroads – he’d found success performing in his home country but international fame still eluded him. That’s when he made the bold decision to call music legend David Foster out of the blue. Against all odds, Foster agreed to listen to Bublé’s demos, and the rest is history. But how did an unknown artist get the biggest music producer in the world on the phone, let alone convince him to take a chance? The story of that pivotal phone call is one for the ages.
Bublé’s Early Career and Breakthrough in Canada
Born in 1975 in Burnaby, British Columbia, Bublé grew up surrounded by music. His grandparents were professional singers in Italy and his father owned a small chain of music stores. From a young age, he showed a natural talent and passion for singing. After graduating high school, Bublé began pursuing a career in music professionally. He released his self-titled debut album in 1995 to moderate success in Canada.
In 1998, Bublé’s career got a major boost when he won a local television singing competition called “Big Break,” which led to increasing recognition across Canada. His second album “Michael Bublé” was released in 1999 to strong sales. He developed a devoted following for his signature style which blended jazz, big band, and traditional pop. By 2000, Bublé had established himself as one of Canada’s top jazz-pop artists. But to truly break out, he knew he needed the support and resources of an international label.
The Bold Gamble to Call David Foster
It was around this time that Bublé made the bold decision to cold call music legend David Foster. Foster had become one of the most successful music producers in the world, having written and produced hits for an A-list roster including Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and Madonna. He was also founder and head of his own record label, 143 Records.
Bublé knew that getting Foster on board could be the key to taking his career global. But he was also acutely aware that Foster was incredibly busy and successful, with no reason to take a meeting with an unknown singer from Canada. As Bublé later recalled, “I knew if I called his office, they’d just say no. So I looked up his home number and I just called him.”
When Foster answered, Bublé didn’t mince words. “Hi Mr. Foster, my name is Michael Bublé. I’m a singer from Canada and I think you should produce my album,” he boldly stated. To his shock and delight, Foster didn’t immediately hang up. Impressed by Bublé’s confidence, he agreed to listen to a couple songs. Bublé promptly FedEx’d some demos to Foster’s home, hoping this gamble would pay off.
The Meeting That Changed Everything
A few days later, Bublé received a life-changing phone call from Foster himself. “Okay kid, I listened to your songs. Come down to the studio next week and we’ll see what you’ve got,” Foster told him. Bublé was elated but also nervous – this was his big shot at impressing one of the biggest names in the business.
The following week, Bublé flew down to Foster’s studio in LA. He sang his heart out, performing some of the tracks Foster had already heard on the demos as well as some new material. As Bublé sang, he watched Foster intently for any sign of approval or dismissal. To his relief, Foster’s expression remained engaged and interested throughout.
When Bublé finished his set, Foster simply said “Congratulations kid, you’ve got yourself a deal.” Foster was blown away not just by Bublé’s powerful voice, but also his natural charisma and stage presence. He saw in Bublé the full package of talent and star quality. Foster immediately agreed to produce and release Bublé’s debut album through his 143 Records label, distributed through Reprise/Warner Bros. Records.
The Self-Titled Debut and Breakthrough Success
With David Foster now serving as his mentor and producer, Bublé began work on his self-titled international debut album. Released in 2003, the album was a smash success on both sides of the border. It debuted at number 5 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart and number 1 on the jazz albums chart. The lead single “Everything” was a breakout hit, topping adult contemporary charts worldwide.
The album received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising Bublé’s throwback style and homage to classic crooners. His smooth vocals and charming persona also resonated hugely with fans. Within a year, the album had sold over 4 million copies globally. Bublé had truly broken through, achieving the international fame and success he’d long dreamed of.
David Foster had been instrumental in Bublé’s breakthrough. As a producer, he helped craft polished, radio-friendly arrangements that highlighted Bublé’s talents. But perhaps more importantly, he championed Bublé from the very beginning when he was still relatively unknown. Foster’s belief in and support of Bublé gave him the platform and credibility needed to find massive audiences.
Sustained Success and Global Stardom
In the years since, Bublé has only continued rising to greater heights. Each of his subsequent studio albums, including 2005’s “It’s Time,” 2011’s “Christmas,” and 2016’s “Nobody But Me” have been global best-sellers. He’s collaborated with an array of legendary artists like Barbra Streisand, Diana Krall, and Blake Shelton. Bublé has headlined sold-out tours across North America, Europe, Australia and beyond.
In total, Bublé has sold over 75 million records worldwide – cementing his status as one of today’s all-time most successful jazz artists. He’s won four Grammy Awards and numerous other honors. Along the way, Bublé has stayed true to his retro influences while also incorporating newer sounds that keep his music fresh. Most importantly, he’s maintained the same infectious enthusiasm for music and performance that first captivated David Foster all those years ago.
The Legacy of That Fateful Phone Call
Today, when Bublé looks back on his remarkable career trajectory, he credits that pivotal phone call with David Foster as the true catalyst. As he said in a 2015 interview, “I really do think if I hadn’t made that call, I wouldn’t be having the career I’m having today. David saw something in me right away and really championed me from the very beginning. I’ll always be grateful.”
For his part, Foster remains just as proud of the role he played in Bublé’s success story. “Michael had it all – talent, charisma, the whole package. I’m just grateful I got to be a part of helping introduce his amazing gift to the world,” Foster said. Their chance connection became a fruitful creative and personal partnership that endures to this day.
More than anything, the saga of Michael Bublé’s big break serves as an inspiration. It shows that with enough passion and belief in oneself, the unlikeliest of opportunities can arise. All it took was one bold, fateful phone call to change the trajectory of Bublé’s career forever. Two decades later, his story of success is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and believing in your dreams against all odds.
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