They Started as Four Friends… and Ended Up Creating One of the Most Unforgettable Performances Ever

When it comes to operatic pop, Il Divo is one of the first names that comes to mind. Known for their rich harmonies, stunning voices, and unforgettable stage presence, the quartet never fails to captivate audiences.

One of their most memorable performances is their unique take on Dolly Parton’s classic “I Will Always Love You”, filmed in October 2014 in Hamburg, Germany. With their classical crossover style and multilingual approach, they didn’t just cover the song — they gave it a fresh, emotional life, blending subtle soul, soaring harmonies, and theatrical flair.

Formed by Simon Cowell in 2003, the group brought together Carlos Marín, Urs Bühler, Sébastien Izambard, and David Miller. Over the years, Il Divo has made a name for themselves with multilingual hits like “Regresa a Mí”, “The Time of Our Lives” with Toni Braxton, and a duet with Céline Dion, “I Believe in You”. Their version of “I Will Always Love You” remains a highlight, showcasing the quartet at their very best.

Sébastien Izambard

Sébastien opens the performance with his soft tenor voice, singing in French. Born March 7, 1973, in Paris, he first picked up a guitar to impress the girl he loved — a simple beginning that eventually led to him performing along the Seine, then in bars, and finally on the world’s biggest stages. Despite the fame, Izambard often speaks about what truly matters in his life: his children. He has shared that even in difficult times, music and the support of his colleagues and fans have carried him through.

Where he is now: Sébastien is still an active member of Il Divo, touring worldwide and continuing to write and produce music.

David Miller

Next in the performance is American tenor David Miller. Born April 14, 1973, in San Francisco and raised in Colorado, Miller’s foundation is classical. He graduated from the Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Opera and Vocal Performance. His love for opera shaped his early career, but participating in Baz Luhrmann’s modern La Bohème helped him explore singing in a more expressive, contemporary way.

Where he is now: David continues performing and touring with Il Divo, taking part in their anniversary tours and special live projects.

Carlos Marín

Carlos Marín enters with his rich baritone voice, bringing depth and emotion. Born on October 13, 1968, in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and raised in Spain, Marín was a musical prodigy. He released his first album at just eight years old, titled The Little Caruso. For Carlos, singing was never simply a profession — it was the way he expressed love, sorrow, joy, and cherished memories, especially those connected to his father.

In December 2021, Carlos Marín sadly passed away. His presence remains deeply felt within Il Divo, and his powerful voice continues to be honored by the group and celebrated by fans around the world.

Urs Bühler

The final voice to join in is Swiss tenor Urs Bühler. Born July 19, 1971, in Willisau, Switzerland, Urs also began young — but in a very different style. At 17, he was the lead singer of a heavy metal band called Conspiracy. Eventually, he studied classical voice at the Sweelinck Conservatorium and performed with the Netherlands Opera before joining Il Divo. He has a love for motorcycles and once joked that his record label has stopped worrying about his Harley-Davidson rides because he’s been riding since he was a teenager.

Where he is now: Urs continues to tour with Il Divo and has spoken openly about how the group has supported each other emotionally after losing Carlos.

A Song Reborn

Although “I Will Always Love You” is most famously associated with Whitney Houston’s legendary 1992 version for The Bodyguard, Il Divo managed to create something truly their own. Their version blends multiple languages, operatic technique, and heartfelt emotion — a tribute to both Dolly Parton’s writing and Whitney Houston’s unforgettable interpretation.

Fans were moved by this performance. The video has gained millions of views, and many consider it one of the quartet’s most beautiful live moments. Since releasing their debut album Il Divo in 2004, the group has skyrocketed to superstardom. They have sold more than 25 million albums, earned over 150 gold and platinum records, and remain the only classical crossover act to reach No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard charts.

Today, Il Divo continues to perform around the world. After Carlos Marín’s passing, American baritone Steven LaBrie joined the group, helping the trio continue their journey while honoring Carlos’s memory. Together, they carry forward the powerful legacy of Il Divo — four voices, one extraordinary sound.

Fall in love with Il Divo’s version below!

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