We spoke to Aled following his appearance at the Tsunami Relief Cardiff concert in January 2005. Here's what he had to say...
Last updated: 22 January 2009
What was it like up on stage?
It was amazing. Absolutely amazing; the most exciting thing I've ever done. I didn't know how people were going to react to my music. It's not Badly Drawn Boy or Keane, but when I walked on it was the best reaction I've ever had. It's probably because we're in Wales, and I'm Welsh, but it was very humbling too.
Is it weird playing to such a diverse audience who aren't necessarily used to your music?
No, it's brilliant. That's what I'm about musically anyway, because I listen to Keane, I listen to the music that's out there as well as classical music. I think more concerts should be like this. I think people were loving it, enjoying all aspects of it. I think it's really healthy, and will show Britain and the rest of the world that this is where the future of music is at.
Is it difficult preparing yourself when you're only playing a couple of songs?
No, not at all. It's a doddle compared to a tour. On my own tour I have to sing about 15 songs. It was just nice to be out there. I'd have sung half a song, one line if you like, so two songs was an honour. It was great.
What do you make of the GLC?
I think they're great fun, and another healthy aspect of music. It was my ultimate dream to play on the same bill as them, so now I can die happy!
What have you got planned for the rest of the day?
I'm going to have a few beers with my friends, then tomorrow I'm presenting a variety award for Bryn Terfel. The day after, two Songs Of Praises back to back, then I've got to record an album and do 100 concerts!
How much do you think the cause of this gig is in people's thoughts when they're performing?
Completely. And also, the crowd are there for a reason. They're not just there to see their favourite pop acts; they're here to raise money. When I announced on stage that we were close to that million mark, you could tell that people really wanted to achieve something. And all power to them all out there.
What's it like backstage?
I only arrived about two seconds before I went onstage. We always planned it that way. I didn't really want to hang around, as performing to 61,000 people doesn't happen very often. I worked out that it's twice the Hollywood Bowl, which is the largest audience I'd ever played to before.
How did you choose the songs you did tonight?
They're two inspirational songs. The first one, San Damiano is about finding a place where you can change your life and never lose hope, and I thought that was quite apt. And You Raise Me Up is one of my favourite ballads. Again, the message is that you can get through it.
You released The Christmas Album late last year. What's next for you now?
Another album this year. I'm not sure what sort of music's going to be on it. Latin American dance music probably. That's a joke! But I've got a 15-date tour in March, I've got an autobiography coming out in the same month, and then June, July we go to Australia, and then from September a 45-date tour of Britain. So not much!
What can we expect from your autobiography?
It's taken almost a year to write. What prompted it was This Is Your Life. Seven eighths of it is about the childhood, and we end on Strictly Come Dancing - there is a chapter about that. But it's mostly about what I was going through as a kid.
