British singer Matt Monroe was known as "The Man with the Golden Voice” and the “British Sinatra” - he was indeed “The Singer's Singer”.
His peak time was in the 60’s when the former London bus driver was signed to the EMI Parlophone label -alongside the Beatles.
His trademark baritone voice was heard on film soundtracks such as the James Bond movie "From Russia with Love” in 1963 as well as “Born Free” in 1966.
His biggest hit was “Portrait of My Love” from 1960.
Uniquely British and working with contemporary songwriters - even covering “Yesterday” by the Beatles - he was able to connect to listeners with his effortless and smooth baritone voice.
In fact - by not focusing on international show tunes - and working with British arrangers and composers such as Don Black and John Barry -he was able to achieve a massive amount of home grown popularity.
He was a regular fixture on British radio as much as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin in the 60’s.
Frank Sinatra indeed complimented Monro on his ability as a singer.
Indeed anyone who came of age in the 60's who wanted to be a ballad singer would have taken note of Matt Monro : his emotional connection with the song , sustained notes and pitching.
So check out the late great Matt Monro - his career sadly cut short at age 54 in 1985.
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