ST. LOUIS — When it comes to sharing his operatic gifts, Missouri native tenor Neal E. Boyd is not partial to either party.

The Sikeston, Mo. born singer — winner of the 2008 “America’s Got Talent” reality show — will sing for Barack Obama…

And that was the case when Neal E. Boyd, the winner of NBC’s America’s Got Talent in 2008, showcased a night of opera, songs…

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“I truly admire military and their sacrifices, not just to our country, but to their family and friends. To offer to lay down your life for others is noble. My CD is meant to be a tribute to America, to the gift it has given to me, and a tribute to the fighting men and women, which is what remaking “God Bless The USA” was all about,” comments Neal E. Boyd.

“Not a lot of citizens get to say thank you, and I am overwhelmed to get the honor to visit and perform for the troops. They chose to defend me and those I love, and I will celebrate that with all the power my voice will allow.”

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]]> http://www.nealeboyd.com/content/2009/06/23/full-album-stream-and-exclusive-video-on-amazon/feed/ http://www.nealeboyd.com/content/2009/06/23/my-american-dream-in-stores-today/ http://www.nealeboyd.com/content/2009/06/23/my-american-dream-in-stores-today/#comments Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:30:52 +0000 NealEBoyd http://www.nealeboyd.com/content/?p=155 Get your copy of Neal E. Boyd’s new album here:

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Check out Neal’s feature on People.com HERE!

Wednesday, 5/13 - Live! With Regis & Kelly. He will perform “Nessun Dorma”

Thursday, 5/14 - The Today Show - Neal will be assisting The Today Show anchors in choosing 3 finalists for a chance to win a performance slot in the final auditions for America’s Got Talent in LA.

My American Dream is produced with full orchestra accompaniment by Simon Franglen, best known for his work with Celine Dion, Russell Watson and Katherine Jenkins. With selections chosen by Neal himself, the album features songs deeply personal to the singer, and resoundingly familiar to fans. Highlights include an unforgettable rendition of the song that catapulted Neal to win America’s Got Talent, “Nessun Dorma,” “West Side Story,” “Somewhere,” and classical staple, “Ave Maria.” In true patriotic style, Neal also puts his stamp on “God Bless The USA” and “Amazing Grace.” With a nod to idols such as Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo, the crooner eloquently tackles “Caruso,” while also covering the more contemporary likes of Il Divo with, “Mama.”

Born and raised in the rural town of Sikeston, Missouri, Neal grew up defying odds and overcoming adversity at a very young age. With an African-American father and Caucasian mother, Neal’s parents separated early on, leaving Neal and his young brother with a full-time working mom and financial hardships. The three persevered, relying on each other for emotional support. Overweight and an avid fan of opera, Neal did not fit the profile of a stereotypical teenager, which remarkably never hampered his drive or spirit. His love of music was apparent to everyone around him, and he was encouraged to train professionally and travel the competition circuit. Inevitably he went on to win the Music Teachers National Association Vocal Collegiate Championship in 2000, which led to his solo debut at New York City’s famed Carnegie Hall in March 2001.

Despite Neal’s triumphs in music, he later shifted course for a more practical business career, becoming a successful agent for Aflac Insurance. During his employment at Aflac, he continued to feel the pull of pursuing music, and decided on a whim to audition for “America’s Got Talent.” After a long and competitive process, Neal not only won over the producers and judges, but also became the clear front-runner of the show with viewers week after week. His consistent ability to connect with audiences of all ages made him the winner of 2008 finale, taking home a million dollar prize and performing a headlining concert in Las Vegas. This is just the beginning for the young man from Missouri realizing his life-long dream of singing professionally, and recording his first album for Decca in 2009. As Neal aptly puts it, “You can achieve anything if you believe in yourself.”

Boyd, the “Voice of Missouri”, is a Sikeston native who made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2001. Last week he earned his way to the final round of NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” The tenor is well-known locally, as many recall his performances at Sikeston High School and later as his operatic career advanced.

“Neal is another of many Sikeston sons and daughters that are combining their natural talents with hard work and dedication to reach the top of their profession,” Marshall said. “We are extremely proud of these young people. I urge Sikeston’s residents to support Neal in his competition and all future endeavors.”

Boyd and his family will be invited to the October City Council meeting where the official proclamation will be read and presented.