Ramin

April 2012

HE first became an international name after starring in The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall, a 25th anniversary concert that was broadcast around the world.

It followed critical and public acclaim for his West End role in both that production and Love Never Dies.

Now Ramin Karimloo hopes to follow other stage stars like Michael Ball and John Barrowman by carving out a music career.

Last month he released his self-titled debut album, which mixed new songs such as Coming Home and Eyes Of A Child with West End classics such as Music Of The Night from The Phantom Of The Opera and ‘Til I Hear You Sing from Love Never Dies.

The Iranian-born singer is now preparing to tour the UK with his band.

Where are you from?

I was born in Iran, then moved to Canada and grew up there. I now live in Essex.

How did music start for you?

I fell in love with a rock band called The Tragically Hip but I was also inspired the first time I went to see The Phantom Of The Opera at the age of 12. Little did I know it would play such a big part in my life.

Who were you listening to when you were growing up?

The Tragically Hip, Counting Crows, The Tea Party and Our Lady Peace.

What was the first album you ever bought?

Up To Here by The Tragically Hip.

Where and when was your first gig?

At the Opera House in Toronto where I took part in a battle of the bands with my original band called Phage.

Who or what have been your biggest musical inspirations?

The Tragically Hip, Counting Crows and Johnny Cash, to name but a few!

Tell us about your debut album, Ramin.

It is a lyrically driven and beautifully orchestrated album. There are some great original songs. We set out to make an album and not 12 singles. Hopefully we’ve done that.

What can we expect at your Nottingham concert?

An exciting set of songs that tell great stories. It will range from new songs from the album to some favourite songs from musicals, including Music Of The Night from The Phantom Of The Opera, Bring Him Home from Les Misérables, Why God Why? from Miss Saigon and songs from Oklahoma! and Camelot.

What experiences have you had of Nottingham in the past?

I spent five weeks in Nottingham in Miss Saigon. What a vibrant city! I can’t wait to come back.

Ramin appears at the Royal Concert Hall on Wednesday May 9 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £25.50 to £34.50 from the box office, on 0115 989 5555 orwww.trch.co.uk.