‘Music was my first desire’: Anthony Hopkins releases debut single and announces album

Hollywood icon Anthony Hopkins is venturing into the music world with the release of his debut single, 'Bracken Road,' and an upcoming album, 'Life Is a Dream,' under Decca Classics. The 88-year-old actor described signing a record deal as fulfilling his "first desire" and "the honour of a lifetime."

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Music was my first desire, my first wish, I’ve been composing music all my life. Some of these pieces have lived with me for decades and I still find myself returning to them. My whole life is a dream. Signing with Decca is the honour of a lifetime.

Hopkins has been composing music for over six decades, and his debut album, set for release next month, features these lifelong compositions. 'Bracken Road,' the lead single, draws inspiration from his childhood experiences in Margam, South Wales, evoking memories of the landscapes surrounding his family home in the 1940s.

The album, 'Life Is a Dream,' showcases Hopkins' dedication to music, which he began pursuing at the age of four by playing the piano. His compositions are brought to life by the Grammy-winning conductor Gustavo Dudamel and the Philharmonia Orchestra. Hopkins expressed deep gratitude for the collaboration, noting how Dudamel's artistry transformed each note.

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It has been a true privilege to collaborate with the distinguished Philharmonia Orchestra and the virtuoso soloists, cellist Gregorio Nieto and classical pianist Sergio Tiempo. My deepest gratitude and respect go to maestro Gustavo Dudamel, whose artistry is an integral part of this musical journey.

Another track on the album, 'My Fatherland,' is a tribute to his Welsh roots and "humble beginnings" in Port Talbot. Other pieces on the album are inspired by memories of his childhood, visits to his grandfather, early cinema experiences, and close relationships. Hopkins, who won Oscars for his roles in 'Silence of the Lambs' and 'The Father,' stated, "Music was my first desire, my first wish, I’ve been composing music all my life."

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With the graceful precision of his baton, he transformed each note with profound and indelible meaning, creating a pictorial landscape that invites the listener to feel and imagine something uniquely personal.

Laura Monks, president of Decca, welcomed Hopkins to the label, stating, "It is such a privilege to have the great Sir Anthony Hopkins join Decca Classics. His depth of talent and classical music knowledge, honed over a lifetime, is a joy to celebrate with this new album."

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I wrote to honour my humble beginnings. I am the son of my father, the baker.