You Raise Me Up – Martin Hurkens

Martin Hurkens always had a dream of being an opera singer, but he did not have the money to stay in music school. Instead, he became a baker to make a living and for 32 years he baked, but his singing was mostly reserved for when he was home with his family.

When he lost his job, the Dutch baker’s daughters wanted to help him realize his lifelong dream and entered him in the reality TV talent show “Holland Has Talent” back in 2010. The 58-year-old “paparotti” won legions of fans and the competition!

In this video, Martin takes to the streets of Holland like a simple busker would, places down his hat, and sings “You Raise Me Up”. Soon a crowd gathers round to listen to the humble baker with the incredible voice!

Lyrics:

When I am down and Oh my soul, so weary

When troubles come and my heart burdened be

Then I am still and wait here in the silence

Until you come and sit awhile with me

You raise me up so I can stand on mountains

You raise me up to walk on stormy seas

I am strong when I am on your shoulders

You raise me up To more than I can be

Related reading:

Martin Hurkens Biography

Martin Hurkens start: Holland’s Got Talent 2010

3 Comments

  1. Beautiful. I find it difficult to imagine him at work in his bakery and not bursting into song.

  2. Most uplifting. I can’t see the video for the tears in my eyes. Thanks so much for sharing this.

  3. Dear Catherine,

    Thanks for sharing this.
    It also shows how important singing and music are and this even more so in the times we are going through.
    No single person or government is allowed to forbid singing or making music.
    It shows the signature of some measures.

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