All Susan Boyle ever wanted was to be a professional singer, and part of the reason she has succeeded is simply because she doesn't have the good looks, sexy body or youth usually seen as mandatory for success.
But reality TV and the World Wide Web have turned the humble unknown Boyle into an international star.
After her performance of "I Dreamed a Dream" aired on TV program Britain's Got Talent last year, the clip spread quickly online. Her angelic voice even impressed Simon Cowell, the famously acerbic judge and producer of the show.
The 48-year-old Scottish songstress is a true, pure, natural singer with a real talent. She also has a story: that hopes and dreams are every where in the world.
Boyle's debut album, also titled I Dreamed a Dream, topped charts in UK and US within just few weeks of its release.
The album, handled by world acclaimed producer Steve Mac, demonstrates her musical ability.
Her warm tone and gently pitch are her best qualities. It's so relaxing to listen to the 12 tracks on the album.
Boyle sings with all her heart as if she were in a place of worship, even when she's singing covers of songs by the Rolling Stones, Madonna or pop rock band The Monkees.
The album features her signature songs "I Dreamed a Dream" and "Cry me a River". The first is about a mother living in hard times, a very similar to Boyle's dream on a more personal level of her life gone by with her mother.
She has dedicated the song to her mother, who died aged 91. Boyle says her mum is the one who dreamed that she should do something with her life.
The album also includes covers of the Rolling Stones "Wild Horses", Madonna's "You'll See", and The Monkees' hit "Daydream Believer".
Her version of "Wild Horses" is very touching and incredibly different from the original, her calming tones replacing Mick Jagger's moaning and high-pitched voice.
Boyle also gives real feel to Skeeter Davis' song "The End of the World", lending a New Age style to the track. Perhaps her feeling is why the sad songs on her album are the best.
She also sings renditions of the hymns "Amazing Grace" and "Silent Night" to complete the album.
Overall, the album delivers a strong message that no matter who you are or where you are from, you can realize your hopes and dreams.
- JP/Triwik Kurniasari
