I met Lisa (Lijoy) in Pittsburgh, at the Heinz Hall, on 9/11/13. The We Are Love Concert had just ended and we were standing in our respective isle’s waiting to file out with everyone. We began talking about what had just happened, and stood there a little longer. I invited her here and, fortunately, she’s been with us ever since.
I was looking at her blog recently and came across this piece. I fell hard for it and asked her if I could share it with all of you. She consented.
~Marie
The Power, The Passion, and The Joy
December 12, 2013
***
I have done the unthinkable! I have fallen in love. Sigh! It really didn’t take long, which has both surprised and troubled me greatly. Demon exorcism begins now!
I haven’t posted on the blog for a while as I struggled with a lot of things in my life. My constant trio of complaints, work, weight, and family dynamics continue to plague my existence. Patience, they say, is a virtue. They, whoever they are, also say to be careful what you wish for, you just might get it. Hmmm! I have been praying for patience for a very long time. Maybe some of the situations I find myself in are the result of not having enough patience. Although family and friends say teaching 13 and 14 year old students prove that I have tons of patience. For children, yes, for adults, it is in short supply.
The more time I spend talking to people around the world, the more I realize we are all broken people. Some of us cope better than others, but everyone has a story to tell. While conducting a one-sided conversation, can it really be called a conversation if the other person never contributes-just a thought, I was reminded of some of the music and artists of my youth. Have to smile here because they were actually artists of my mother’s youth in the fifties and sixties, I just love their sound and never embraced the music of my generation. You know the artists I truly adore. Think Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Etta James, who was part of that one-sided conversation, Al Jarreau, Miles Davis, and Louis Armstrong to name a few.
What does any of the above have to do with the title of this blog? Absolutely positively nothing and everything! The three words in the title are apt adjectives for my newest classically and Italianally life passion, Il Volo. The Power-Piero Barone, classical tenor whose very being oozes sexy. The Passion-Gianluca Ginoble, gifted baritone who is the definition of fiery elegance. Finally, The Joy-Ignazio Boschetto, lyrical tenor whose smile and love of life are infectious. You may have met them before in previous accounts, but if not, give a look and listen. They have truly taken over my waking and sleeping. After seeing them in concert on September 11, I could not get enough. Bought every CD even the Spanish language ones, I don’t speak Spanish. Several weeks later, having finished the N. American/Canada Tour, the boys moved south of the border to Latin America. Thank God for Google translate. But a new problem arose, different time zones. Never one to enjoy the daytime, even as a young child, nocturnal living is very appealing. This circumstance fed right into my vampirism. Try following you favorite group when they keep musicians hours with a six hour time difference. Living on two hours of sleep a day for weeks at a time can be dangerous, not necessarily for me, but for others. Lack of sleep sharpens my tongue and turns off the filter from my brain to my mouth. I have a tendency to say what is on my mind regardless of the subject or object. There are many positive things that I have gained from falling in love, which outweigh any negative consequences.
What is utterly mind-blowing are the people I have met from all over the world. Close to home we have Jackie, Marie, Kelly, Lavina, Caroline, Charlene, Ellen, Donna, Judy, Mary, Claire, Joanie, Beverly, Janis, and a whole posse from Miami. There are countless others, too numerous to name. But I still need to acknowledge the International contingent of Athena, Suzana, Hazel and many others from Spain, Brazil, Philippines, England and Latin American countries. Whew! So many wonderful, loving, and passionate people. Doesn’t matter the time of day or night, someone is available to lend an ear or share memories. Two of my newest Twitter buddies are recording artists and musicians Iliana and Paul Eastham. Three young Italian singers have enriched and opened my world in ways that just amaze me.
Can any three people be more different but still live, work, and sing in such harmony? Piero, Gianluca, and Ignazio often use the phrase, “Three voices, One soul” to describe themselves. Young bodies of 18, 19, and 20 years old, but old beautiful, compassionate souls. It is often difficult to describe the trio and an infinitely more eye-opening experience to see and hear them for yourself.
Aren’t they just adorable? I have so much more to say, but have decided this will be Part 1-A Short Introduction to The Power, The Passion, and The Joy. How many more to follow is anyone’s guess.
***
Thank you Lisa, for allowing us to experience this lovely, intimate narrative.
Thank you Lisa for expressing what Il Volo is, they are The Power, The Passion and The Joy for so many of us, you just say it so beautifully!!
Thank you Lisa your blog was awesome . You captured what all of us young and old feel. I have corresponded with so many people all over the world. It’s just magical what these boys do to us. We are like one big happy extended family…Cathie
As always my friend your writing is only to be envied for your talent and ability to connect not only with your readers, but with your subject. Love hearing, seeing, and listening to our boys anyway I can, tweet, blog, my girl cave… Thanks so much for this again.
Lisa, “the power, the passion, and the joy”–I love it. What a powerhouse of qualities all wrapped up in one whole–Il Volo. One of their powers is the ability to evoke emotion in the listeners. When watching the boys in action, I can’t decide whether they are more like “a cold refreshing glass of water on a hot day,” or a “temperature-raising, pulse racing hot toddy on a cold day.” Of course, they are both, and that’s what makes them what they are. They are whatever we need them to be at any given time….sometimes refreshing, sometimes hot, always genuine and adorable.
Awww Mary that was so sweet!
I am surrounded by people who put words together so beautifully!
Thanks, Marie, and I have to say that you picked the perfect photos to put with Lijoy’s story. Those photos really reflect the attributes of which she is speaking. Good job, as usual.
Thank you, Lisa, for putting into words just how I feel about these talented young me. The power – Piero, the passion – Gianluca, and the joy – Ignazio! They have brought so much joy and happiness into my life. They get me going in the morning, and are the last voices I hear at night. In love again at my age? You bet! With three very special young men!
“The Power. The Passion. The Joy.” Ladies and Gentlemen, Il Volo. Absolutely beautiful, and way more eloquent than anything I ever comment about them. For example, while watching yet another youtube video of them performing “Maria” while on tour: “ERMERGHERD!!!” “AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!” “OOOHHHH, PICK MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!” *rabid fangirling* ”
(I’m sixteen, fangirling is allowed) 😀
Thank you for sharing this with us and showing us yet another way the love Them more! 😀
Isabel, I understood every word you said. I’m allowed. I’m 65!
Thank you Lisa for the heartfelt piece you have shared with us. I was very touched by your feelings and thoughts.
We all say we love Gianluca , Ignazio and Piero but never say we are In Love with them as you did. I think I speak for most of us when I say I am truly In Love with them. When you are In Love you can’t get enough of that person(or persons in our case) morning ,noon and night. Is that not us ? We crave daily news, we listen to their CD’s , watch their DVD’s and think about them,probably, too much. Normal ??? I don’t know but I love the Power,The Passion and The Joy they instill in us.
I can’t wait until I can follow their concerts this year and become crabby and tired because of the late night concert photos and videos that are posted on Il Volo Mundial. It doesn’t matter because their old ,compassionate souls, in those young bodies, will carry me through the day, the week ,and if I am blessed, for many years to come.
Lisa… So well and beautifully said. Perfect descriptions of Our Boys, especially the “young bodies”, “old souls” bit. Funny…I’ve always intuitively had that feeling about them, especially Gianluca, probably because he is the most serious of the three!
Can’t wait for your next installment! Hooray for the Power, the Passion, and the Joy. You make these short winter days and long winter nights without The Boys a lot more bearable! Thank you!
Helen
Ah, Lisa, you expressed beautifully what all of us here feel about Our Guys! Their music makes me feel a way I can’t really express in words. All I know is I, too, have to hear them every day. And their personalities…you hit the nail right on the head with Power, Passion and Joy. I’m so grateful for social media so we can watch them sing and talk 24/7. Is it “normal” for a 61-year-old woman like me to feel this way about them? (They make me wish I was 21 again, let me tell you!) I don’t really care if it’s “normal” or not. All I care about is that they make me happy; they’ve soothed some of the wounds I’ve suffered over the last couple of years, and it’s good. And I agree with you about them being “old souls in young bodies”. Write some more for us, you are wonderful!
Thank you everyone for your kind words. I am usually a very quiet and practical person. I said yes to Marie with some hesitation and reservation. This is how Il Volo has managed to challenge me as they have thousands of others. I truly enjoy sharing this flight with all of you. Thank you again Marie for taking a chance and sharing my ramblings.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us. You described them perfectly. I am definitely going to have to borrow that. “The Power, the Passion, and the Joy.”
Hi L.J., how nice to know! Also share your love for Billie and Nina, Etta, Bessie, Big Bill Broonzy, BB King, and Miles Davis, etc etc, I just never never get tired of listening to them. It’s always time for some good old Blues and some Jazz too. Musically omnivore.
& Just keep on writing.
Grazie!Il Volo e la scrittura sono la mia vita .Cercando di imparare l’italiano .
Ma che brava, continua così ! just do not limit yourself .
If you teach English you may correct all my mistakes.. 😉
Had to write above your reply as no box under.
Cheers
Lisa, thank you so much for expressing what all of us feel. I have to agree with every word of all the comments above – the power, the passion and the joy are eloquent expressions of the essence of each of “our boys.” They certainly make me happy every time I hear them, and no day is complete without some of their marvellous music. It is wonderful to have this place to come to and share these feelings with people who understand. And so, thank you also to all of the flight crew for being here!
One more vote here for Lisa’s perfect description of “our boys/men”. I feel like a star-struck teen and simply cannot listen too much to or read too much about these beautiful souls. They do soothe, empassion and delight my heart in ways no one else has. I’m so glad, too, for this site where we can share these words and be understood. Thanks, ladies!!
Thank you, Lisa, for your wonderful descriptions and interpretations of The Power, The Passion and The Joy! Those were the same words I expressed when I first discovered them on Sept 4, 1911. They fill my days with their music and my sleeping head hears them at night. And, Oh My! How have they grown and matured since TLUC! Yes, I’m “In Love”, too at 71 years young! Please keep writing and posting. Your words express so much for those of us who don’t do quite so well at putting words to paper!
You just did Linda P and it was lovely.
Yes Lisa I have said from the first time I heard & laid eyes on these young men & especially Ignazio that I am in love & I told everyone on the other site just that. I can’t help myself. So I agree with everything you said & also you LindaP I am honoured to see & to hear them at a concert & to be in their presence. I wish with all mynheart I could turn back the clock
Lisa Joy – Joy indeed! My friend teaches at CCCC and knows of my love for Il Volo. I will forward your blog which expresses my thoughts exactly. Then he will know…..
Beautiful! No truer words were ever spoken here. I am 60 and in love with them. How can you not be? At 60, to have found such joy and delight in music and three young Italian men…it is simply a blessing. Because they are so talented and such genuine young men we are drawn to them. They wear their hearts on their sleeves. Thank you for your beautiful words. I look forward to your next segment.
Jane! “No truer words were ever spoken here”?? What have I done? OH! I”m sorry Lisa you will not have another segment on this site!! LOL (sort of)
LOL!! Don’t worry Ms. Crider. After all, where would we be without our Captain?
Ha! Thank you, Miss Isabel.
marie…every word spoken here is true and sincere…I meant she put it so precisely and beautifully…like so many posts here…all are very special as we all put out our thoughts and feelings about these wonderful guys. When I read it that was just what popped into my head…someone has done it again…put thoughts into words that express so many emotions and insight into three amazing human beings. And it blows me away that we don’t even know each other, but think and feel the same about Piero, Gianluca and Ignazio! I don’t know what I’d do without this site. It’s been a wonderful connection with so many interesting people who share the same passion for our guys. I am so looking forward to meeting more of our Flight Crew in person as time goes on! 🙂
Ok Jane, I’m convinced. We might invite Lisa back again.
🙂 Now I can sleep better tonight. 🙂
Thank you Jane! Thought I was going to be permanently exiled from the Flight Crew!
That could never happen, Lijoy. If it did there would be a major mutiny among the crew. You know Marie has a heart of gold and would never let you go. Bring on the next segment!!
Thanks Mary! Working on the next it’s half finished.
Hmmm… Somehow I think I posted this on the wrong page (?), so this is a re-post with an amazing Gianluca addition!…
Lisa Joy, this is awesome. You nailed it! … the Power, the Passion, the Joy. Yes!!
And love that you included that most adorable interview. How could anyone not fall in love?!
Marie, thanks for reaching out to LiJoy regarding this amazing blog.
Did you all catch Gian’s 16-second video dated January 17th on Mundial facebook? Oh, my gosh! I want to hear the whole song!! Who has the info on what song, originated by whom, etc…. anyone??!
And if you all don’t hear from me too much for the next couple few weeks, it’s probably because I’m having some repair work done at my house, and it’s rather all consuming. Thinking of you, meanwhile!
Love to all our IL VOLO friends here, with special thanks to the Power, the Passion, and the Joy!
~ Jeanine DuBois, Compassion’s Doorway
Too funny! I just went to bookmark Gian’s 16-second video (mentioned above), and I almost set the link in my section for vitamins and supplements, instead of music. Now come to think of it, Gianluca’s voice is like a vita-man! (; >)
Ciao!
~ Jeanine D.
OK… found Elvis, Michael Bublé, Kenny Rogers, Eddie Arnold, etc.
Gianluca did better than Elvis, for my sensibilities. I want to hear Gian sing the whole song (Have I Told You Lately that I Love You?), so I can decide how he compares to Bublé. So far, GG is my top pick!
Somehow this song slipped by me until tonight. First time I ever heard it!
~ Jeanine D.
Oh Mary, so, you think I have a heart of gold? Call her The Poet Laureate or Her Grace and see what happens! Lisa who?
I just watched my new DVD of Mas Que Amor, and I have to say to those who don’t have it yet, RUN don’t walk to get a copy. It is pure GOLD!!! The photography is great….lots of close ups; the sound track is great and the orchestra is an added bonus. The boys are absolutely at their cutest. They really respond to the enthusiastic Mexican fans. They give new meaning to the word “adorable” and they have already set the bar pretty high on that word. Marie, if it is possible I think you will love your boy even more after seeing this. Maybe you have seen it, but just saying to anyone who hasn’t—-GET IT!!
t
OK! OK! Just ordered it from eBay. Can’t love him more though, Mary. Love meter already topped out!
Your love WILL reach new heights when you see this, Marie. Your heart can always expand a little more.
Thank you so much for the heads up! I’m headed over to Clackamas Town Center Barnes and Noble to pick mine up tomorrow!
Connie, if you’re thinking of getting one, call first to see if they’ve got any more on hand. If not, perhaps we can have a little tea and a Mas Que Amor viewing gathering here. (After I deal with the construction in my home, so maybe 2-3 wks.)
Deanne, good to hear from you. Been a while.
Ahhh… more than love!
~ Jeanine DuBois, Compassion’s Doorway
I can not find the DVD of Mas Que Amor…I only get the CD when I search B&N, Amazon and Ebay.??? What am I doing wrong? I just don’t see it, but I WANT it after reading your posts! Help!!
Try calling the Barnes and Noble store and ask them to order it for you. Be sure to ask for the special edition which includes the DVD. There will be two discs in the C D case.
Jane, It is on eBay. At least it was an hour ago. You have to look at the CD cover. It says special DVD and CD on the bottom right.
I just found it on eBay and ordered it. Thank you!!!
OK, that was backwards on my part. Glad you found it though. I thought it was odd that I couldn’t get it from Amazon. Figures, I get free shipping at Amazon. Doesn’t matter though. It’s The Boys. Worth a lot more than I paid!
Thank you Lisa for wording word for word just how I feel about our boys. they start off my day and end it late at night . thanks to them, I forget time at night, I just have to see one more concert or interview, and then when I finally get into bed in the wee hours of the morning, my mind wonders over all that has happened to them until I finally fall asleep. Yes, I have every Cd and DVD, but I can’t stop playing “Buon Natale”. I just wish that time would stop and they won’t grow older, I could never think of them not being together.
Lisa, thanks for this piece. My day is not complete without hearing their music or checking the web for any news about them, checking this site and reading your comments is an added bonus, thanks everybody.
Jeanine, the song Gian is singing is called Little Green Apples, a beautiful song, I wished he sang the whole song., sounds like he’s singing a duet with himself. There’s a you tube version of Glen Campbell singing the song.
Maryjane, I found this CD/DVD pack in Walmart. The CD is the Mas Que Amor plus El Triste. The DVD has 9 songs, a concert they did in Mexico. Amazon and B & N on line did not have this. I wonder if this is an exclusive item for Walmart. Hope you find your copy.
Enjoy!
Thanks, Victoria! Good to hear from you again! The other one I love is the clip on Mundial Facebook with Gianluca’s hand to his mouth and a lovely smile… Have I Told You Lately that I Love You?
I kinda feel for the 45-year-old guys. Really tough to have an 18-year-old sing better than you ever have or could hope to. In my utterly impressed opinion.
(; >) Jeanine DuBois, Compassion’s Doorway