July 20th: Today's Feature

July

Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel

Seal entered the world on the 19th of February in 1963, at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, London. His unique heritage stems from his Nigerian mother, Adebisi Ogundeji, and his Afro-Brazilian father, Francis Samuel. Growing up, Seal was nurtured by a foster family residing in the vibrant district of Westminster, London. Despite his humble beginnings, Seal's determination led him to pursue a two-year diploma in architecture, which paved the way for a diverse range of employment opportunities within the bustling city of London.

Early Career

During the early stages of his career, Seal explored various opportunities to showcase his singing talent. In the 1980s, he ventured into the local club and bar scene, captivating audiences with his soulful voice. However, it was in 1987 that he truly made his mark when he joined Push, a renowned British funk band. Together, they embarked on an exhilarating tour in Japan, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances.

Seeking new experiences and musical influences, Seal's journey took him to Thailand, where he immersed himself in the vibrant blues scene. He joined a blues band for a period, honing his skills and adding a unique touch to their sound. However, his thirst for exploration led him to part ways with the group, embarking on a soul-searching journey throughout the enchanting landscapes of India.

After his transformative journey, Seal returned to his home country, England, where he found solace in the company of his friend Julian Bunster, who happened to be a model. Julian's couch became Seal's temporary sanctuary, providing him with a place to rest and reflect on his musical aspirations. Seeking validation for his talent, Seal often sought Julian's opinion, asking him if he sang well. Julian's response was consistently encouraging, assuring Seal that his vocal abilities surpassed those of many contemporary artists.

It was during this pivotal time that Seal's path crossed with the renowned producer Adamski, forever altering the trajectory of his career. Recognising Seal's immense talent, Adamski invited him to collaborate on his single "Killer." Seal not only provided captivating lyrics but also lent his powerful vocals, creating a mesmerising masterpiece that resonated with audiences worldwide. This collaboration marked a turning point in Seal's early career, propelling him towards the global recognition and success that awaited him.

Personal

Seal's distinctive facial scarring is a visible reminder of the impact of discoid lupus erythematosus, a specific form of lupus that primarily affects the skin and leaves behind significant scars. This condition has left its mark on Seal's face, but it has not hindered his success as a talented singer-songwriter.

Not only is Seal known for his musical prowess, but he also comes from a family of talented individuals. His brother, Jeymes Samuel, who is widely recognised as The Bullitts, has also made a name for himself in the music industry as a singer-songwriter. The Samuel family's musical talents seem to run deep.

Seal's romantic journey with German model Heidi Klum began in February 2004, shortly after Klum announced her pregnancy and the end of her relationship with Flavio Briatore. Seal's love for Klum was evident when he proposed to her on 23 December 2004 in a unique and memorable way. He built a quinzee on a glacier in Whistler, British Columbia, and popped the question. The couple tied the knot on 10 May 2005, exchanging vows on a picturesque beach in Mexico near Seal's home.

Unfortunately, after nearly seven years of marriage, Seal and Klum announced their separation in January 2012, with Klum filing for divorce in April of the same year. The divorce was finalised in October 2014, marking the end of their union. Despite the challenges they faced, the couple's focus remained on co-parenting their children and moving forward in a positive manner.

Honours & Legacy

Seal has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his exceptional talent. With a career spanning several decades, Seal has captivated audiences worldwide with his soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and mesmerising performances. His remarkable success is evident in the staggering number of records he has sold, surpassing a remarkable 20 million copies.

Seal's musical journey is adorned with numerous chart-topping hits, including the iconic songs "Crazy" and "Killer." The latter soared to the top of the UK charts, solidifying Seal's status as a musical sensation. However, it was his timeless masterpiece, "Kiss from a Rose," released in 1994, that truly catapulted him to international fame and became his most celebrated composition.

Throughout his illustrious career, Seal has been honoured with a multitude of prestigious awards, further cementing his status as a musical virtuoso. Notably, he has been bestowed with three Brit Awards, including the esteemed title of Best British Male in 1992. Additionally, Seal's exceptional talent has been recognised on a global scale, as he has been honoured with four Grammy Awards and an MTV Video Music Award.

Seal's prowess as a songwriter has also garnered critical acclaim, earning him two Ivor Novello Awards for Best Song Musically and Lyrically. These accolades were presented by the esteemed British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors for his exceptional compositions "Killer" (1990) and "Crazy" (1991).

Beyond his musical achievements, Seal has also made a mark as a coach on the popular television show, The Voice Australia. His expertise and guidance have helped aspiring artists hone their skills and reach new heights in their musical careers. Seal's return to Australia in 2017 as a coach further solidifies his commitment to nurturing talent and contributing to the vibrant music scene. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Seal continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his extraordinary talent, leaving an indelible legacy in the world of music.