A 13-year-old Austrian girl has taken the internet by storm with her remarkable cover of the iconic ballad “I Will Always Love You,” originally written by Dolly Parton and later famously performed by Whitney Houston. The video of her audition on the German edition of The Voice Kids has garnered over 226 million views on YouTube, capturing the hearts of viewers worldwide and sparking a renewed interest in the legendary song.
This article delves into Laura Kamhuber’s unforgettable performance, the history behind “I Will Always Love You,” and how the young singer’s rendition has resonated with audiences across the globe.
The History of “I Will Always Love You”
“I Will Always Love You” has a storied history, dating back to 1973 when Dolly Parton first wrote and released the song. Initially, it was a heartfelt goodbye to Porter Wagoner, a longtime partner in her career, as she parted ways with him professionally. The song became a hit in the country music world, but it wasn’t until Whitney Houston’s 1992 cover for the soundtrack of The Bodyguard that it became an international anthem.
Houston’s version of the song was a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. To date, it has sold over 20 million copies and remains Houston’s signature song. The emotional depth of the lyrics and the power of Houston’s vocal performance have made it a timeless classic.
Dolly Parton’s Reflections on the Song’s Legacy
While Dolly Parton initially hesitated to let Elvis Presley cover the song in 1974, fearing the loss of royalties, her decision ultimately led to the song’s longevity. In a CMT interview, Parton revealed that although Presley’s version would have been exceptional, her gut instinct led her to decline. She later expressed gratitude that Houston’s cover turned into a global phenomenon, adding, “I made enough money to buy Graceland”—a humorous nod to the success the song brought her after its resurgence.
Parton has always spoken fondly of Houston’s rendition, acknowledging the extraordinary emotional connection Houston brought to the song. In 2012, after Houston’s passing, Parton paid tribute, saying, “Whitney, I will always love you. You will be missed.”
Laura Kamhuber’s Unforgettable Performance
Fast forward to 2013, when a 13-year-old Laura Kamhuber took the stage during the blind auditions on The Voice Kids Germany. When Kamhuber began her version of “I Will Always Love You”, even the seasoned judges were left stunned. Known for her powerful, mature voice that belied her age, Kamhuber’s performance was a vocal feat that captured the essence of Houston’s rendition while making it uniquely her own.
The judges, including Tim Bendzko, who was particularly impressed, didn’t hesitate to turn their chairs for Kamhuber, signaling their eagerness to coach her. Bendzko, a German pop star, jokingly referred to the song as “the forbidden song” due to its notorious difficulty, especially given Houston’s immense vocal range.
Bendzko, who had heard countless talented singers over the years, admitted: “You just sang it sensationally. It was incredible.” His comment reflected both the difficulty of the song and the outstanding talent Kamhuber demonstrated.
“The Forbidden Song”
The reference to “the forbidden song” stems from the immense challenge involved in performing “I Will Always Love You.” Whitney Houston’s rendition is known for its remarkable vocal range, with the song spanning several octaves, requiring both power and control. Notably, Houston’s voice brought the song into the pop and soul realms, adding a layer of raw emotion and technical expertise.
Despite the song’s daunting nature, Kamhuber’s performance was lauded for its emotional depth and technical precision. She performed with maturity and poise well beyond her years, leaving viewers and the judges in awe.
Laura Kamhuber’s Career After “The Voice Kids”
Although Kamhuber was eliminated during the knockout rounds of The Voice Kids, her audition performance became a sensation, making her the most-watched Austrian artist on YouTube. The video garnered over 226 million views, a remarkable achievement for any young artist.
Her stunning performance of “I Will Always Love You” was not only a career-defining moment but also a viral sensation that showcased her potential on a global stage. Since then, Kamhuber, who now performs under the stage name Laura Lun, has continued to grow her career in music.
In 2017, she released her debut album, which featured a blend of pop, country, and ballads—genres that allowed her to showcase the versatility of her voice. Her work since then has further solidified her reputation as a talented and rising star in the music industry.
What Made Her Performance Stand Out?
Several factors contributed to the success of Laura Kamhuber’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You”:
- Vocal Technique: Kamhuber’s ability to control her voice across a wide range and hit the high notes without sacrificing tone or emotion was a key factor in her success. This level of skill at such a young age is rare and sets her apart from other young singers.
- Emotional Connection: Kamhuber brought a unique emotional depth to the song, something that many performers struggle to convey, especially on such a well-known track. She made the song feel personal, even though it was a cover of a classic.
- Maturity Beyond Her Years: Despite being only 13 years old, Kamhuber’s stage presence and maturity were striking. She commanded the stage with confidence, making her performance one that viewers could not forget.
The Impact of Kamhuber’s Performance
Kamhuber’s performance of “I Will Always Love You” serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend generations. It also illustrates how younger generations can breathe new life into classic songs, interpreting them in ways that resonate with both older and younger audiences.
The performance has sparked discussions about the future of music competitions and the influence of platforms like YouTube in launching careers. Kamhuber’s viral success emphasizes the power of online content and the ability for talented individuals to reach a global audience.
Conclusion: A Young Artist With a Bright Future
Laura Kamhuber’s remarkable performance of “I Will Always Love You” remains a defining moment in her career, earning her a spot in the spotlight and drawing millions of viewers to her audition. While she may have been eliminated from The Voice Kids, her journey is just beginning.
As she continues to release music and grow her fan base, it is clear that Kamhuber’s talents extend far beyond her audition performance. Whether in pop, country, or ballads, Kamhuber’s versatility, vocal ability, and emotional depth make her one to watch in the years to come.
Her story is an inspiration to young artists everywhere, proving that with determination, skill, and a bit of luck, the stage is set for anyone to make their mark on the world.
Sources:
- The Voice Kids – YouTube Channel
- Laura Lun Official Website
- RIAA – Recording Industry Association of America
- Billboard – Best Selling Singles
- CMT – Dolly Parton Interview
