Josh Groban Concert Tickets 2011

The Early Years: A Star in the Making

Josh Groban's musical journey began in the 7th grade, but it wasn't until he joined the Interlochen Arts Program that his talent truly started to shine. In late 1998, Groban's life took a pivotal turn when he met David Foster, a renowned producer, writer, and arranger, through his vocal coach.

Rising to Prominence

Groban's early career was marked by high-profile performances, including the California gubernatorial inauguration of Gray Davis and the Grammy Awards, where he rehearsed "The Prayer" with Celine Dion, filling in for Andrea Bocelli. His big break came when he was accepted into the theater division of Carnegie Mellon University but chose to pursue a recording contract with Warner Bros. under Foster's 143 imprint instead.

Breakthrough and Stardom

Debut Album and Early Success

Josh Groban's self-titled debut album was released in November 2001 and quickly catapulted him to stardom. The album went double platinum, and Groban's popularity soared with his own PBS special in November 2002. He performed at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway, and joined a star-studded holiday performance at the Vatican in Rome.

Continued Success with "Closer" and "Awake"

In November 2003, Groban released his second album, "Closer," which reached the number one spot on the Billboard album charts just two months later. His third studio album, "Awake," released in 2006, featured collaborations with Ladysmith Black Mambazo and jazz pianist Herbie Hancock. The holiday-themed "Noel" followed in 2007, and "Awake Live" was released in 2008.

The "Illuminations" Era

In 2010, Groban teamed up with renowned music producer Rick Rubin for his fifth studio album, "Illuminations." This album showcased a more Americana-influenced sound and received critical acclaim.

The 2011 "Straight to You" World Tour

Tour Announcement and Highlights

On Valentine's Day 2011, Josh Groban announced his "Straight to You" world tour, supporting his album "Illuminations." This tour marks his first full-scale international tour since 2007's "Awake" tour. According to his record label, the new show promises to bring the intimacy of a theater experience to an arena setting through innovative stage design, lighting, and projection, as well as spontaneity and interactivity.

Setlist and Performances

Groban is expected to perform a mix of material from his self-titled debut, "Closer," "Awake," and "Illuminations." Fans can look forward to hearing favorites from his bestselling albums, including "To Where You Are," "The Prayer," and "You Raise Me Up."

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Josh Groban's debut album went double platinum within a year of its release, selling over 2 million copies in the United States alone (RIAA).
• "Closer" reached the number one spot on the Billboard album charts just two months after its release, a rare feat for a classical crossover artist (Billboard).
• "Noel," Groban's holiday album, was the best-selling album of 2007 in the United States, with over 3.7 million copies sold (Nielsen SoundScan).

Conclusion

Josh Groban's 2011 "Straight to You" world tour is set to be a spectacular event, blending the intimacy of a theater experience with the grandeur of an arena show. With a setlist featuring hits from his illustrious career, this tour promises to be a must-see for fans of the acclaimed pop and classical singer. Don't miss your chance to see Josh Groban live in concert—tickets are on sale now!

Sources:

• RIAA
• Billboard
• Nielsen SoundScan