Born February 27, 1981 in Los Angeles, California, Joshua Winslow Groban is a popular American singer and actor recognized for his novel blend of contemporary and classical musical styles.
Groban He did not seriously study singing until his teens, when he began performing in musical theater at the Los Angeles County High School of the Arts. In late 1998 he was introduced to Grammy-winning producer David Foster, who hired him to sing at various events, and he soon received a recording contract with Warner Brothers. Concerned that the song of Groban, often in Italian, defying easy categorization, its promoters staged a series of talk show and news appearances, as well as two guest appearances on the popular series Ally McBeal.
The appearances, which capitalized on the singer’s onstage magnetism, boosted sales of his first album, Josh groban (2001). Produced by Foster, the album mixed pop with classic songs, showcasing the rich baritone voice of Groban and his romantic sensibilities. His continued performances at high-profile media events, including the closing ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, expanded his international appeal.
Later albums of Groban include Josh Groban in Concert (2002), which was recorded live during an appearance on the public television series Great Per performances; Closer (2003), which featured more original compositions, as well as performances by guest artists such as classical violinist Joshua Bell; Y Awake (2006), which included collaborations with the South African group Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the jazz pianist Herbie Hancock.
In 2011, Groban made his film debut, playing a seedy lawyer in the comedy Crazy, stupid, love. His later films included Muppets Most Wanted (2014) and The Hollars (2016). He also continued to occasionally work on television, appearing on shows like The Office, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Y Parks and Recreation.