Enrico Caruso

Date of Birth: February 25, 1873

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: August 2, 1921

Biography

Enrico Caruso was an Italian operatic tenor who became one of the most famous and celebrated opera singers of the early 20th century. Born on February 25, 1873, in Naples, Italy, Caruso’s career spanned from 1895 to 1920, during which he became renowned for his powerful and versatile voice. He performed at many of the world’s major opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where he was a principal tenor for 18 consecutive seasons. Caruso made his operatic debut in L’Amico Francesco in Naples in 1895 and quickly rose to international stardom. Known for his rich, emotive voice and dramatic interpretations, he left an indelible mark on the art of opera. He was one of the first musicians to embrace recording technology, and his numerous recordings for the Victor Talking Machine Company contributed significantly to his widespread popularity. Despite his professional success, Caruso’s personal life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. He married Dorothy Park Benjamin in 1918, and they had two children together. His health began to decline around 1920, and he passed away on August 2, 1921, in Naples from complications related to pleurisy.

5 Interesting Facts about Enrico Caruso

1. Enrico Caruso was one of the first major opera singers to embrace and make extensive use of recording technology, making over 260 recordings.

2. He was the first artist to sell a million records, achieving this milestone with his 1904 recording of “Vesti la giubba” from the opera Pagliacci.

3. Caruso’s voice had a unique timbre that could be distinctly recognized even in recordings made with the limited technology of the early 20th century.

4. He was a principal tenor at the Metropolitan Opera in New York for 18 consecutive seasons, from 1903 to 1920.

5. Caruso was known for his generosity and often helped fellow musicians and friends in financial need.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Enrico Caruso

1. “I know I’m an artist because I can make people cry.”

2. “If you want to understand me, listen to my music.”

3. “I have a little tenacity, and that is the secret of my success.”

4. “I sing from the heart and let the music speak for itself.”

5. “My voice is a gift from God. I use it to give joy to others.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Enrico Caruso’s net worth was estimated to be around $7 million, which would be equivalent to roughly $100 million today when adjusted for inflation.