By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Paul Potts, the former manager of a mobile phone shop, who wowed the world with his strong voice and passion for music, is back with a new album ``Passione.''
The winner of the popular show ``Britain's Got Talent'' arrived in Seoul once again last Saturday with high hopes and a tight schedule: an autograph event; an appearance on a local television show; a free performance at Seoul Plaza; and even a short appearance as a guest judge for the Korean version of ``American Idol,'' Mnet's ``Superstar K.''
``I spent a lot of time, longer than the first (album). The first one was made in nine days but I had far more time to work on the second. I ended up with an album I'll always be proud of,'' Potts said at a press conference held at a hotel in central Seoul Tuesday.
The 38-year-old seemed poised and calm, and there was no trace of nerves many may remember from his first appearance on British TV.
``Passione'' covers many of Potts' favorite classics, including ``Il Canto,'' Chopin's ``Tristesse,'' ``E Lucevan Le Stelle'' from the opera ``Tosca'' and ``Un Giorno Per Noi,'' which was featured in the movie ``Romeo and Juliet.''
``I wanted it to be the reflection of my emotions, from love, hope to despair. I wanted to cover all the emotions,'' Potts explained.
The past two years were like a dream, garnering fans from around the world, holding a world tour and also winning Best International Male Artist at the ECHO Awards this year for his dedication to music.
``It's important to know where you come from and the sense of where you are going,'' he said.
Unlike others, Potts performed at the open-spaced Seoul Plaza for everybody to see, and, when asked why, he shrugged and said it was natural.
``Performing and bringing music to everyday people, wherever they are, is (important). Music is a two-way communication and I think that's important. Sometimes you have to bring the music to the people. It was a great honor to see so many people there, quite nerve racking. Koreans always give me a wonderful welcome,'' he said.
The singer added that it was crucial for him to be his own critic, because criticism and challenge is always required for improvement.
``My biggest enemy is tension, but I think I have made progress in that through the years,'' he said.
There are probably many who not only have been touched by his success, but some may even have realized that everyone has a chance to fulfill their dreams. And Potts encouraged anyone with such a dream to step up and give it a shot.
``You (don't) need to have to come out in a television show. It can be going for a new job. We all are (given) our own particular talents, but you have to take risks and rejections. I know that can be very hard _ to face the fear of rejection. (But it is) very important to see where it can take you in your life,'' he said.