TanyaB все записи автора Michael Buble enchants female audience with jazzy standards, ballads

Michael Buble knows how to charm a crowd.

He does it not only with his classic song stylings but with his suave charisma and semi-flippant sense of humor. The Canadian crooner unleashed those endearing qualities Monday during a 90-minute concert at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre.

The show was the first of three sold-out Chicago concerts Buble is performing in support of his latest album, “Call Me Irresponsible.”

Proving he’s the consummate showman, Buble delivered an energetic set filled with poignant ballads, jazzy classics and a few modern favorites thrown in for good measure.

Though his audience spanned the generations, the crowd was largely female. And it was obvious Buble has a way with the women judging by the dreamy-looking grins of those seated around me.

Backed by a powerhouse big band, Buble’s vocals were in excellent form and shone through flawlessly in the theater known for its pristine acoustics.

Buble began his concert with “I’m Your Man” from his new album, followed by “It Had Better Be Tonight (Meglio Stasera).”

He addressed his fans often, mixing jokes, stories and general comments of gratitude.

“Thanks to all of you for being here, especially the people in the upper deck. The fact that you people made it up there without oxygen is amazing,” he said, laughing.

Buble’s set list was filled with many gems, including “Try a Little Tenderness,” the sentimental “Always on My Mind,” the jazzy, sex-appeal oozing “Fever” and a sultry version of “Me and Mrs. Jones,” which Buble flippantly dedicated to all “the married women in the audience who’ve cheated.”

He also delivered strong versions of “For Once In My Life,” “Save the Last Dance for Me,” his self-penned hit “Home,” and “That’s Life,” which he performed with a full gospel choir.

Buble got a little campy with an imitation of Elvis’ “That’s Alright Mama,” and led an audience sing-along with the Village People’s “YMCA.”

He put a jazzy spin on his encore “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” and ended his show with the poignant “Song For You.”

Prior to leaving the stage, Buble told fans he appreciated their support over the years.

“I come from a family of plumbers and fishermen,” he said. “We’re not rich and I don’t take anything for granted. I know tickets are expensive. … I thank you for being part of my success.”

Fans cheered and gave Buble a standing ovation as he exited the stage.