麻豆约拍

Paul Gambaccini concludes his look at the voice and career of Johnny Mathis, one of the last in a long line of traditional male vocalists who emerged before the rock era of 1960s.

Mathis had scored two major international hits in the late 70s but, as he explains, he experienced a new burst of popularity with his 1978 hit with Too Much, Too Little, Too Late. This song was a duet with singer Deniece Williams, and he went on to record an album with the singer which charted worldwide. Mathis has rarely been influenced by the trends of the time but he admits "he couldn't resist" the disco boom of the late 70s and his UK hit Gone Gone Gone demonstrates reveals he took to the disco beat with ease.

By the 80s, Mathis enjoyed album success both here and in America as he once again recorded the music of the best writers and arrangers. He paid homage to his greatest influence on the album Unforgettable - a Tribute To Nat King Cole" (1983) and recorded with Henry Mancini on a collection called The Hollywood Musicals (1986).

This documentary first broadcast in 2006, when Mathis was celebrating 50 years in show business. A relaxed and informative talker, Johnny gives an insight into his remarkable ability to maintain his appeal and pursue his musical goals despite often countervailing trends.