Rhyl-bound Andy Abraham’s got the X factor

Apr 23 2009 by David Powell, North Wales Weekly News

ANDY Abraham’s already got several firsts under his belt – an X-Factor finalist pulling in nine million viewers, the UK’s Eurovision entrant and a chart history making album, The Impossible Dream, which sold 176,689 copies in its first week, taking it to platinum status.

He followed that with a sell-out concert at London’s Albert Hall and now he’s tackling a major UK tour.

Not bad for a one-time dustman.

He says: “I used to go to the 291 club at the Hackney Empire. It was a big competition where you get up and sing in front of a crowd, and if you're bad they soon let you know!”

But it was the tragic death of his best friend in 1998 which gave Andy the final push he needed to throw himself headlong into the world of music.

Andy decided to take the plunge and go to music college, so he quit his job as a printer and signed up to the Powerhouse in Acton.

“You have to deserve to be in the entertainment business. You have to do a good job. So far it seems every concert I’ve done, people have loved it,” he said.

His biggest fans are his two children: “As far as they’re concerned, Daddy is still Daddy, regardless of my fame.”

Andy, 43, is looking forward to showing off his skills on stage.

He says: “I’ve been to Rhyl to do a couple of gigs before. I got a brilliant reception. They’re up for a good time and I expect no difference this time.

“Everybody seems to remember The X-Factor so I obviously did something right!”

He says his concert at the Pavilion will be packed with soul classics and his own songs.

“I will be taking people back in time with songs like Me and Mrs Jones and When a Man Loves a Woman. It’ll also be very energetic with more upbeat songs like Don’t Leave Me This Way, Let’s Go Round Again and Celebrate Good Times. Maybe people should do a five mile run to warm up before they come in!”

When he’s not performing, he explains how he relaxes.

“I veg out in front of the TV and give myself a good few hours to rest my voice.”

And he’s still got time to watch TV talent shows – he’s been impressed by Susan Boyd who stunned Britain’s Got Talent judges earlier this month.

Andy Abraham at the Rhyl Pavilion on May 3. Tickets on 01745 330000.