Publisher, Naxos Audiobooks (July 2007)

This series explores the lives of legendary performers of the past. Their colourful paths to enduring worldwide recognition are depicted through a combination of lively narration and authentic recordings.

Includes over 30 original recordings from 1902 to 1920, all newly restored by Ward Marston.

The Italian tenor Enrico Caruso was unquestionably the first great star of the classical recording industry. From the legendary first recording session in a Milan hotel room in 1902 to his last in 1920, he made nearly 500 records. Through this unique legacy we can hear what a remarkable and individual singer he was. David Timson traces the development of Caruso's career, from a background of Neapolitan poverty to worldwide superstar status. Interweaving over thirty of the finest recordings, he shows exactly why Caruso's reputation remains undiminished today, and the sound picture that emerges is of a great singer, a generous man who lived life to the full.