Josh Groban on the rock project he never finished and his new favorite spot in L.A.

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As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I consider my upcoming performances at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend as a way of paying back a debt – one filled with melody and emotion that I owe to music lovers everywhere.

In 2009, when he was just 28 and still looking youthful, the Bowl inexplicably inducted him into their Hall of Fame prior to his performance there, a distinction that the renowned singer and actor, known for his powerful baritone voice spanning genres including pop, Broadway, and classical music, gratefully acknowledged. Four years later, Groban took part in the Bowl’s annual Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, but it was as part of a program heavily focused on patriotic orchestral numbers.

He mentions that these performances represent his initial steps into solo shows, particularly at the renowned hillside amphitheater. He’s gradually striving to achieve recognition and eventual induction.

On Fridays and Saturdays upcoming, Groban, aged 44, will collaborate with the L.A. Philharmonic, marking a significant milestone roughly a quarter-century after his debut album’s release in 2001, produced under David Foster’s guidance (the same mentor who propelled the careers of Andrea Bocelli and Michael Bublé). In 2023, Groban starred as Sweeney Todd on Broadway; more recently, in May, he unveiled a career compilation titled “Gems” and commenced a residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

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In the upcoming month, the Find Your Light Foundation established by singer Josh Groban will host its annual fundraising event in New York. This event aims to collect funds for arts education, a cause that Groban considers more crucial now due to significant budget reductions in government spending proposed by President Trump.

As I sit down with a cup of coffee, I can’t help but emphasize the importance of the moment we’re in. As an ardent movie enthusiast, I see this as a significant call to action. The arts, more than ever, serve as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. In these times of division and polarization, it is crucial that we hold on tight to our identity, lest we lose ourselves completely.

After a stint in New York, I’ve returned to Los Angeles once again. New York holds a special place in my heart, but it wasn’t until I stepped away that I truly realized its hectic and bustling nature. In my younger years, I embraced the city’s chaos without question. As time has passed, I find myself cherishing moments of quiet reflection more than ever.

What is the place where you often find yourself having profound thoughts? For me, it’s a secluded room in my house with a piano, a collection of baseball cards, and a window through which I can enjoy the sounds of birds singing. It’s more like a quiet retreat than a man cave, though.

Speaking of baseball cards, I remember having shoeboxes filled with my beloved Dodgers back in the day – Orel Hershiser, Fernando Valenzuela, and Tommy Lasorda were among my favorites. That era, known as the junk wax era, was when companies like Topps, Fleer, and others produced way too many cards because they believed there was a huge market for them. As a result, most of those cards have no value today. Yet, it’s perfect that way, since I wasn’t collecting them for profit, but simply because it was enjoyable to amass my team’s cards as a kid.

My heart feels a sense of sadness for the child who bargains in baseball card stores as if they were treating it like a business.

Which is the top-notch card shop in L.A., you ask? Well, there’s a fantastic place called Burbank Sportscards that I highly recommend. It’s enormous, almost as big as a Walmart dedicated to sports cards. One day, after having an excellent workday, my girlfriend-such a sweetheart, she’s keenly aware of my growing interest in card collecting-she suggested we visit the new large card store. I exclaimed, “Burbank Sportscards? You mean it?

Love this for you.
It’s sad and it’s beautiful.

Music

Before the Friday evening debut of Part 2 in HBO’s ‘And So It Goes,’ here’s a list, arranged in order, of Billy Joel’s most popular songs.

Lately, your musical style has leaned towards a blend of blue-eyed soul. Your recent studio album included covers of “Celebrate Me Home” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me”, and the track “Be Alright” on your latest release, “Gems”, carries an R&B feel. I find myself drawn to this style when I sing, but only when working with the right producer can I feel confident enough to fully explore it. The ability to do something doesn’t always mean it should be done.

It seems to me that you ought to ensure that the songs you perform are heartfelt, since we all have a commitment to ourselves and our audience to deliver authentic performances. In my own case, I was adept at mimicking various singers before receiving formal training. Early in my career, I would merely attempt to emulate those I listened to. However, I soon discovered that I possessed the ability to convincingly imitate different styles and vocal qualities.

Can you do Michael McDonald?
[Sings] “You don’t know me but I’m your brother …”

Indeed, that’s affirmative. He is undeniably one of my most admired musicians – not just for his talent, but also for his character. When I caution, “Don’t exercise your abilities unnecessarily,” there are instances when you might be capable of creating something extraordinary with your instrument, yet it may stem from a desire to prove yourself. In such cases, the image or ego might influence you, making you think, “I wish others would perceive me in this specific way.

With age, you tend to develop a sense of when something isn’t quite right, which was not as keen earlier in life. For example, I am a fan of rock music and have had the pleasure of collaborating with renowned rock artists whose work I admire. While these experiences have been delightful, the final product of our collaborations often favored their stronger vocal abilities over mine.

I’ve actually become acquainted with Serj Tankian, lead vocalist of System of a Down, over time. His voice has an operatic quality that adds a powerful emotional and melodic touch to the band’s heavy music. At one point, we were exchanging ideas back and forth, and I found myself thinking, ‘Wow, Serj would be perfect for this song, but it might not quite fit my style.’

It seems that if I were to guess, Serj might think you could have handled that situation differently.

If I’m A&R-ing your next album, I’m putting you in the studio with Babyface.
Sure.

As a film enthusiast, if Babyface said, “Let’s work on Luther Vandross’ ‘Here and Now’ today,” I’d feel the challenge keenly. However, when it comes to producers who make you feel secure, Babyface is one of them. If he ever suggested, “I want to hear your take on this,” I’d be ready in an instant. Yet, considering the chance of that happening is slim [smiles wryly]!

Instead of deliberately avoiding labeling “Gems” as a greatest-hits collection, you might say:

I didn’t produce hit singles, but I created hit albums. Regardless of whether this is a positive or negative aspect, my career journey, the audience I’ve engaged, and the opportunities I’ve received have been fruitful. When deciding on “Gems,” we prioritized the songs that have resonated most with fans. There are also songs that didn’t make it to “Gems” but will be included in a separate compilation we’re calling “Hidden Gems.” Although humorously, I sometimes tease my manager, suggesting that if I never had hits, then isn’t “Gems” already akin to “Hidden Gems”?

Currently, I’m juggling a project – it all sort of kicked off simultaneously – which is an album featuring tracks from films. Recently, Francis Ford Coppola asked me to perform the “Godfather” theme at his AFI Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony [in April], and that was a pivotal moment for me, realizing how impactful film music has been on my singing journey. Subsequently, I had dinner with record producer Greg Wells, who was wrapping up work on the “Wicked” movie, and we shared our fondness for beloved film songs.

Some essential choices, as of now undecided, tend to be songs with a style reminiscent of Michel Legrand or Scott Walker – music that doesn’t hesitate to embrace the dreamlike escapism inherent in their melodies. For instance, “As Time Goes By” from Casablanca, “Windmills of Your Mind” from The Thomas Crown Affair, and “Skyfall” are among my favorites. I performed “Skyfall” in Las Vegas.

Title suggestion: ‘The Continuous Symphony.’ Can you guess the film where that tune is featured? [Grabs smartphone] I’ll quickly look it up on Wikipedia.

As a movie music enthusiast, I’m convinced that the tune was penned by Alan and Marilyn for the 1982 film “Best Friends.” It climbed to No. 5 on the Adult Contemporary chart and even earned an Academy Award nomination. What strikes me is how often in movies, a song will rise to fame beyond its original film. When I created my “Stages” album, it was filled with tracks from musicals that were already well-known. It’s fascinating how that happens – the songs transcend their cinematic roots and resonate independently.

Music

The latest album from the popular music star builds upon the sound and swagger of last year’s hit “Short n’ Sweet.

A few weeks back, I had the pleasure of witnessing Diana Ross perform at an amphitheater. To my delight, she sang a number from the movie “Land Before Time,” which reminded me of how timeless her music is. Just as I could relate to the epic tune from “Troy,” it’s not hard to imagine someone enjoying a performance about dinosaurs!

Did you know some fun facts about the Grammys? You’ve been nominated for the Traditional Pop Vocal Album three times, but it seems I was underestimating that until I found out Barbra Streisand has lost 13 times! Knowing this makes me feel a little less disappointed.

It appears quite absurd, doesn’t it? After all, being nominated is an honor, but the disappointment of not winning still stings just as much.

You’re featured in Streisand’s newest duets album. This is our third collaboration together. Each time we work, it’s like attending a masterclass watching how she interprets the lyrics. On paper, the song may seem simple, but when you hear her unique way of embellishing notes or shaping a line, it sends shivers down your spine.

It’s quite heartwarming to see Bob Dylan participating in the “We Are the World” project, singing “The Very Thought of You.” This man is so multifaceted and has such diverse interests, it was touching to witness his vulnerable side in this documentary. Given that he accepted the invitation to join, and didn’t refuse the opportunity – though I can’t speak for his personal reasons – it’s clear that Dylan harbors a desire to explore beyond the boundaries of what he’s already accomplished. Here’s to him!

How did you find Dylan’s Sinatra records? They’re not my first choice when it comes to this genre of music – I listen to Tony Bennett or Mel Tormé more frequently. However, I did appreciate his distinctiveness on an intellectual level. David Foster used to tell me, “Don’t strive for a perfect voice; aim for one that can be identified quickly in a crowded restaurant.

Amongst all the films directed by the talented Maureen Foster, I firmly believe that “I Will Always Love You” stands out as her crowning achievement. While some may argue for other more profound or technically superior works, this production resonates with me due to its timeless and iconic snare hit – a moment that undeniably etched its mark in pop culture history.

Back in 2018, you mentioned your wish to establish a family someday, provided you could commit as deeply as your father did to you. Fast-forward seven years, what are your thoughts on children now known as the Groban vibe? Well, it seems like the time might be getting closer. I’m currently in a beautiful relationship with my partner, Natalie McQueen, and we seem to have similar aspirations. In the past, the desire for travel was stronger than my longing for permanence. However, now I find myself cherishing the idea of settling down and creating a genuine home, not just a place where my pillow lies.

Does it matter to you that your children experience Los Angeles, where we can enjoy activities like attending a Dodgers game, visiting the Farmers Market, or the Hollywood Bowl, just as I did when I was growing up?

Or the Burbank card store.
They’ll get their first one-of-one Ohtani for their birthday.

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2025-09-04 13:31