Engelbert Humperdinck was not born with his outrageous name. His given name, Arnold George Dorsey, is much less eccentric and proof that his parents did, in fact, know what they were doing when they were naming at least one of their 10 children.

Humperdinck began his career in music when he entered a singing contest and revealed one of his many talents – impersonations. His world-class imitation of Jerry Lewis earned him the nickname Gerry Dorsey, which he later adopted as a stage name. Gerry Dorsey was very popular on the U.K. music circuit until he contracted tuberculosis. When Dorsey recovered six months later, he knew he needed a fresh new image to make a comeback and upon the suggestion of his manager, he dubbed himself Engelbert Humperdinck. After all, who could forget that name?

Over his 40-year career, Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records, garnered a Golden Globe for “Entertainer of the Year” (1988) and four Grammy nominations, had 63 Gold and 24 Platinum records, and has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

But Humperdinck’s influence on the music industry does not end here. Few people realize that forces of rock n’ roll like Jimi Hendrix and The Carpenters started out as opening acts for Humperdinck. You thought Elvis made the side burns and flamboyant leather jumpsuits famous? Think again. Humperdinck actually pioneered that style and jokingly claims that Elvis “stole” the look from him. Despite the friendly rivalry, the two often performed one another’s songs and shared a lasting friendship until Elvis’ death. And let’s not forget the time Humperdinck’s “Release Me” stole #1 from the Beatles in 1967.

But what makes Humperdinck truly unique is his versatility. Although he is most widely known for his romantic ballads, Humperdinck has also recorded everything from dance music, remixing some of his most popular songs like “Quando, Quando, Quando” and “Release Me,” to Platinum-selling theme songs, such as “Lesbian Seagull.” With his extraordinary voice and legendary talent, Engelbert Humperdinck is one act you will not want to miss.