Burger with Relish

 

"It was time to experiment," Yanni said in an interview with The Salt Lake Tribune. But the question is -- why?

Yanni, 54, has to his credit 35 platinum and gold albums globally, with sales totaling more than 20 million copies of his new-age albums. The contemporary instrumental composer also has the second best-selling music video of all time (1994's "Live at the Acropolis"). He has performed for more than 2 million people in more than 20 countries with his concert extravaganzas.

Why experiment?

"There are no rules," said Yanni, who will perform tonight with four singers whom he allowed to write lyrics to some of his most beloved instrumental compositions. "Right now, I am in love with the four singers."

As evidenced on his March 24 album "Yanni Voices," his first studio album since 2003's "Ethnicity," the Greek native Yanni performs alongside young international singers Leslie Mills, Chloe, Nathan Pacheco and Ender Thomas.

The project began more than three years ago when Yanni became friends with Ric Wake, one of the most sought-after vocal producers, who has worked with Mariah Carey and Celine Dion. They came up of the idea of adding vocals to some of Yanni's music, something he had rarely done. "It was a very organic approach," Yanni said. "It wasn't planned."

After selecting four singers, Yanni asked them to contribute lyrics. He admitted being nervous, but instructed the singers: "Retain the integrity and heart of the piece."
After hearing Chloe sing "Change," Yanni felt so emotional he "almost lost it."

Besides, he added, "The human voice is one of the most powerful instruments."
Viewers of PBS throughout the Salt Lake Valley were able to see a version of the production on June 2, when KUED broadcast the show in a stunning visual production that rivals the eye-popping images of the Acropolis.

"This is the biggest production I've ever done," Yanni said.
 
Yanni
When » June 17 at 8 p.m.
Where » EnergySolutions Arena, 301 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City
Tickets » $37-$77 at www.Ticketmaster.com or 801-325-SEAT