My American Dream

Neal E. Boyd (Artist)

Product Details

• Audio CD (June 23, 2009)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Decca
• ASIN: B001WT3EF6
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (64 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #2,730 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

  Popular in these categories: (What's this?)

  #90 in	Music > Broadway & Vocalists > Musicals
  #97 in	Music > Pop > Oldies > Traditional Pop

Track Listings

1. God Bless The USA

2. Nessun Dorma

3. Mama

4. Somewhere

5. Il Gladiatore

6. Bring Him Home

7. Is Nothing Sacred

8. Anthem

9. Sonny Boy

10. Ave Maria

11. Amazing Grace

Editorial Reviews

About the Artist

Born and raised in the rural town of Sikeston, Missouri, Neal grew up defying odds and overcoming adversity at a very young age. With an African-American father and Caucasian mother, Neal's parents separated early on, leaving Neal and his young brother with a full-time working mom and financial hardships. The three persevered, relying on each other for emotional support. Overweight and an avid fan of opera, Neal did not fit the profile of a stereotypical teenager, which remarkably never hampered his drive or spirit. His love of music was apparent to everyone around him, and he was encouraged to train professionally and travel the competition circuit. Inevitably he went on to win the Music Teachers National Association Vocal Collegiate Championship in 2000, which led to his solo debut at New York City's famed Carnegie Hall in March 2001. Despite Neal's triumphs in music, he later shifted course for a more practical business career, becoming a successful agent for Aflac Insurance. During his employment at Aflac, he continued to feel the pull of pursuing music, and decided on a whim to audition for "America's Got Talent." After a long and competitive process, Neal not only won over the producers and judges, but also became the clear front-runner of the show with viewers week after week. His consistent ability to connect with audiences of all ages made him the winner of 2008 finale, taking home a million dollar prize and performing a headlining concert in Las Vegas. This is just the beginning for the young man from Missouri realizing his life-long dream of singing professionally, and recording his first album for Decca in 2009. As Neal aptly puts it, "You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself."

Product Description

Neal E. Boyd, fan favorite and winner of the NBC hit television show, "America's Got Talent," is set to release his anticipated debut CD, "My American Dream" on June 23rd. Capturing the hearts of millions on "America's Got Talent," Neal makes the transition from television star to bona fide recording artist with his first collection of personal and moving songs. Delivered with passion, conviction and incredible range, My American Dream captures the heart and soul of this singer who has became an unlikely hero to many. My American Dream is produced with full orchestra accompaniment by Simon Franglen, best known for his work with Celine Dion, Russell Watson and Katherine Jenkins. With selections chosen by Neal himself, the album features songs deeply personal to the singer, and resoundingly familiar to fans. Highlights include an unforgettable rendition of the song that catapulted Neal to win "America's Got Talent," "Nessun Dorma;" West Side Story's "Somewhere," and classical staple, "Ave Maria." In true patriotic style, Neal also puts his stamp on "God Bless The USA," and "Amazing Grace." With a nod to idols such as Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo, he eloquently tackles classics including "Caruso," and "Mama."

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely amazing!, June 24, 2009

By	Joanne C. Saville "J C Saville" (Santee, California) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I preordered my CD and received it in the mail today. I quickly put down my groceries and popped it into the CD player. I was not disappointed. His voice is just so amazing and the CD is just so well done. There's such a great selection of songs that I have a hard time finding a favorite. As each one plays I think it's my favorite and then I think it's the next one and so on. He has such power in his high notes and such tenderness in the soft ones. I challenge anyone to listen to this without tears or goosebumps.

I will defintely be playing "God Bless America" during the fireworks on the 4th of July. I just imagine fireworks every time I hear it. I love the little video they did with this. I have as yet to hear "Mama" without tears in my eyes. Congratulations Neal! This is beyond my expectations.

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Eclectic and wonderful, June 28, 2009

By	Richard B. Schwartz (Columbia, Missouri USA) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

Neal's first cd is, hopefully, the first of many. This one finds him in excellent voice. It is a very eclectic collection, from 'God Bless the USA' to 'Nessun Dorma'. It is quintessential Neal, down to the inclusion of the very moving 'Mama'. Personal disclaimer: I was fortunate to play a role in taking Neal to Carnegie Hall as part of our 'Mizzou on Tour' program. I have heard him sing for years and was especially proud of his performance in 'Corps of Discovery', the Lewis and Clark opera which the university commissioned. I was not surprised to see him win 'America's Got Talent' because I've long known that Neal has mega-talent. His voice just seems to get better and better and the young man known to his television audience is the real Neal. He is just this nice, just this talented, just this sensitive and optimistic. All of us wish him well. If you're interested in a collection of superb, but very eclectic pieces, all perfect for Neal's voice, buy this album.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply Beautiful!, July 4, 2009

By	annie "grannieannie" (Mid-MI) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This is an amazing collection of songs, including opera, spiritual, and patriotic. I watched Neal on "America's Got Talent" and was simply amazed by his beautiful voice. His talent is incredible. I remember when he sang "Mama" on "America's Got Talent", and I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. This was such a beautiful tribute to his mother, who raised him alone.

I love every song on this CD. It is a real treasure! Not only is this a great CD to own it would make a wonderful gift for friends and family.