Tribute to the Late Luciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti (October 12, 1935 -- September 6, 2007) was an Italian tenor and one of the most popular contemporary vocal performers in the world of opera and across multiple musical genres. Known for his televised concerts, media appearances, and as one of the Three Tenors, Pavarotti was also noted for his award-winning charity work for raising money on behalf of refugees and the Red Cross.

Pavarotti began his career uneventfully by performing in opera houses throughout Europe, but broke out after a performance with well-established soprano Joan Sutherland, who invited the young tenor to join her in touring internationally. By 1977, Pavarotti had become known worldwide, famed for the power and effortlessness of his upper register. His "high C" would become a trademark throughout his career.

Pavarotti was launched into popular culture after a performance of Nessun Dorma for the opening ceremony of the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. The first of the famed Three Tenors concerts was held on the eve of the final match of the tournament in which Pavarotti performed together with fellow star tenors Plácido Domingo and José Carreras. Through these performances, Pavarotti brought hits previously confined to the opera world to a much wider audience; Pavarotti further spread his influence with appearances in advertisements and concerts with pop stars. Unlike many crossovers, Pavarotti always maintained his reputation in the opera world as supreme in his field.