Joseph Schmidt (1904-1942) was a prominent lyric tenor of the early 20th century, celebrated for his extraordinary voice and his tragic life story. Born in Davideny, Bukovina, in the Austro-Hungarian Empire (now Ukraine), he moved to Berlin in the 1920s where his singing talent was soon recognized. Despite his short stature which made it difficult for him to secure roles in operatic stage productions, Schmidt's vocal prowess was undeniable. He became a star through radio and recordings, with his clear and expressive voice making him one of the era's most beloved tenors.

Schmidt's recording career was prolific, allowing him to reach a wide audience who may never have seen him live. He was particularly famous for his performances of works by composers such as Mozart, Rossini, and particularly for his interpretation of the aria "Una Furtiva Lagrima" from Donizetti's "L'elisir d'amore." His career in film also introduced his voice to a broader audience, with "Ein Lied geht um die Welt" (A Song Goes Round the World) bringing him considerable fame. Unfortunately, his life was overshadowed by the rise of the Nazis in Germany, and as a Jewish artist, Schmidt was forced to flee Berlin. His attempt to escape the Holocaust led him through several countries, until he was interned in a Swiss camp where he died in 1942, at the young age of 38, from heart failure. His legacy is preserved through an extensive collection of recordings that showcase the talent and emotion of a voice that survives well beyond his untimely death.

Genres

Vintage Schlager

Latest Release

Velvet Rush

Joseph Schmidt

Single - Released July 21, 2023