The concert featured the premiere of Jenkins’ new work, which had been specially commissioned to mark the a decade of devolution in Wales. It was introduced by the National Assembly’s Presiding Officer, Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas, AM.

The evening also featured some of Jenkins’ best known works, including excerpts from the million-selling album Adiemus: Songs of Sanctuary, Requiem and The Armed Man . There were also performances from international soprano Rebecca Evans, harpist Catrin Finch and singer Elin Fflur.

The birthday celebration was particularly fitting as Karl Jenkins wrote the anthem for the Wales Millennium Centre’s opening five years ago.

Rhydian, who was runner-up 2007’s ‘X Factor’, has recently been working with Karl Jenkins on his new album, which will be released on 30 November 2009 and also features harpist Catrin Finch.

The Sennybridge singer said: “It’s a real privilege to be invited to perform at such a landmark concert at one of Wales’ most iconic centres.”
“It’s been thoroughly enjoyable working with Karl Jenkins on my new album. To be able to share in his birthday celebrations with the people of Wales is a great honour. And it’s a great personal achievement for me to follow in the footsteps of Wales’ great performers by taking part in the Wales Millennium Centre’s fifth birthday celebrations.”

Rhydian will be visiting Sainsbury’s stores in Bristol and Bridgend in early December to meet fans and sign copies of his mesmeric new album, ‘O Fortuna’.

Below are the dates and details of the stores he’ll be visiting - stand by for exact times coming your way shortly…

Tues 1st Dec
Sainsbury’s Emersons Green
Emersons Green
Bristol
BS16 7AE

Fri 4th Dec
Sainsbury’s Bridgend
The Derwen
Mid Glamorgan
CF32 9ST

Don’t forget Rhydian will also be signing albums at HMV in Cardiff from 5:00pm on the ‘O Fortuna’ release date: November 30th.

Pre-order your copy of the album here

You are about to be amongst the first fans in the world to see brand new cover artwork from Rhydian’s incredible upcoming album, ‘O Fortuna’.

Here it comes - take a deep breath and scroll to three:

1

2

‘O Fortuna’ hits stores November 30th, pre-order your copy at Amazon / Play / HMV

We asked who you thought was the best Rhydian detective (the member that always posts the best Rhydian news, snaps and articles fresh from the web and press before anyone else) and we can now reveal that the winner, with 67% of the votes, was…

Nonna!

Congratulations Nonna, please PM admin with your address so we can get your signed pic to you.

Thank you to everyone that took part in the awards, it’s been great fun learning more about you all and celebrating the great qualities and personalities of Rhydian forum fans.

We’re pleased to announce that, to celebrate the release, Rhydian will be stopping by HMV Cardiff to meet fans and sign copies of the new album.

If you want to be there and get your copy of ‘O Fortuna’ signed, make sure you head down to HMV, Unit 4, 53-57, Queen St, Cardiff, South Glamorgan CF10 2AS from 5:00pm on November 30th 2009.

Rhydian looks forward to meeting you all!

Last week we asked you to vote on who you thought was the most helpful member of the forum and we can now reveal which way the votes went.

So, without further ado, the person who you voted most helpful with 68% of the votes was…

Pepper!

Congratulations Pepper, please PM admin with your address details so we can get your signed pic out to you.

This week we move into the final category: the Rhydian Detective – who’s the member that always posts the best Rhydian news, snaps and articles fresh from the web and press before anyone else?

Because your nominations were so unanimous this week there are, once again, only two nominations:

Nonna

Jane

Head to the forum here to vote and check back in next week for the last result.

The album will now be called ‘O Fortuna’ which is the name of its powerful first track.

‘O Fortuna’ is an iconic piece of music which was written by Carl Orff in the 1930s. It will be instantly recognisable to you as the music that often plays the judges to their chairs at the beginning of the X-Factor but Rhydian, of course, will be adding his own unique and brilliant interpretation to the track.

We are also pleased to now be able to confirm the final tracklisting for the album, take a look below:

1 O Fortuna

2 Benedictus (Featuring Kiri Te Kanawa)

3 Myfanwy (Featuring Bryn Terfel) 

4 Conquest Of Paradise

5 How Great Thou Art

6 The Living Years

7 Ave Verum Corpus

8 Cantilena: Adiemus, Spirit Of The Mountains

9 I Won’t Let You Walk This Road Alone

10 Anthem

11 Annie’s Song

12 Land Of My Fathers

The album hits stores November 30th, pre-order your copy here.

And make sure you stop by next week when we’ll be revealing more exclusive details from the album including the cover artwork!

Last week we asked you to vote on who you thought was the best Rhydian tour reviewer. With so many brilliant writers on the forum this poll was particularly close…

Even so, one of the nominees managed to inch their way one vote ahead of the competition to hit the top spot with 45% of the votes. That nominee was…

Fay!

Congratulations Fay, please PM admin with your address details so we can get your signed pic out to you.

This week we move into category five: the most helpful member - who can always provide technical advice or help out with queries about Rhydian’s appearances and shows? Here are your nominations:

Lisa

mjfeather

Pepper

Head to the forum here to vote and check back in next week for more results and voting.

After much consideration Rhydian and his team have decided to call his second album…

‘Our Homeland’.

The album hits stores on November 30th and is produced by Welsh composing legend, Karl Jenkins.

Read more about the album in Rhydian’s blog here

And pre-order your copy at any of the links below:

Amazon

Play

HMV

The album currently remains unnamed but that won’t stop you getting your hands on it. Follow any of the links below to pre-order your copy:

Amazon

HMV

Play

And head to Rhydian’s blog to read what he had to say about the new album.

On November 14th Karl will be celebrating his 65th Birthday in style with a special all-Welsh concert at the Wales Millennium Centre. The gala evening is being staged in association with the National Assembly for Wales to mark the 10th anniversary of devolution and we’re pleased to say that Rhydian has been invited along to sing.

The evening will feature some of Jenkins’ best known works, as well as new material and performances from soprano Rebecca Evans, harpist Catrin Finch (who also appears on Rhydian’s new album) and singer Elin Fflur.

“It’s a real privilege to be invited to perform at such a landmark concert at one of Wales’ most iconic centres” said Rhydian.

To book tickets call the ticket and information line on 08700 40 2000 or visit www.wmc.org.Tickets are priced from £15 to £35.

Last week we asked you to vote on who you thought was the best Rhydian artist on the forum. The preliminary nominations were already very close with only two members selected to go through to the poll voting, AND the poll votes have been very close too.

However, we can now announce that the winner - scraping into the top spot with 55% of the votes is…

Budgie!

Congratulations Budgie, please PM admin with your address details so we can get your signed pic out to you.

This week we move into category four: the best Rhydian tour reviewer: whose tour reviews blow you away every time? Here are your nominations:

Fay

Nonna

Rhyds_Rocks

Head to the forum here to vote and check back in next week for more results and voting.

Last week we asked you to vote on who you thought was the kindest member of the Rhydian Forum. We’re pleased to announce that the winning forum member with 46.5% of the votes is…

Rhian H!

Congratulations Rhian, please PM admin with your address details so we can get your signed pic out to you.

This week we move into category three: the most talented Rhydian artist – who is it you think designs the best sigs, avs and Rhydian artwork on the forum?

Preliminary voting for this particular category was so unanimous that there is only a choice of two finalists to vote for. Here are your nominations:

Pepper
Budgie (Carol)

Head to the forum here to vote and check back in next week for more results and voting.

We’re pleased to announce that - with 50% of the votes - the winner of the ‘Funniest Person’ category in the Rhydian Official Forum Awards 2009 is…

Gillyflower!

Congratulations Gilly, please PM Admin with your address so we can send your signed picture to you.

This week we move into category two: ‘The Kindest Person’ on the forum. Below are the three nominations…
Rhian H
Fay
Lisa

Some people had trouble voting on Bebo last week so, this week, we’ve set up a poll the forum too – don’t vote in both places though, we’ll only count your vote once!

Head to the forum here or Bebo here to vote and check back in next week for more results and voting.

Well, the title is still unconfirmed, and there are no promises that any of these titles will be picked BUT there have been so many great suggestions we thought we’d flag up some just so everyone can take a look. These are taken from social networks and the official sites so you might not recognise all of the names.
 
Here goes…

Pauline
‘reaching hearts’, ‘

Fay
“…on the Tour you said, ‘‘I would like to invite you into my world’‘, therefore could I suggest ‘My World’ as a possible title.
 
Joanne
“Welsh and Wonderful” seems to be appropriate!!!

Golfergreen
 “Walk with me”

Donna H
“Universal Notes”

Brummiebabe
“My Gift to You”

Peter
“Encore”

sweetpea55
“Serenity”
 
Littlebaker
“Living This Moment”

Daniel
“Storm on the horizon”

Wilkie
“Man in White”

PatK
“Rhydian - Ignition”

Petula
“Rhydian Rides Again”

Eilidh
‘r llwybr (the path)

Jack
”Rhyding life”

Joanne
“Second To None”

The above is only a tiny snapshot of the suggestions so far head to this thread in the forum to see loads more.

The programme, which is recorded in Welsh, features guests discussing their passion for clothes and sharing some stories behind their own wardrobe.

For anyone that missed Rhydian’s appearance, head here to see Rhydian’s interview – English subtitles are included.

We have received several nominations in the different categories and now it’s time to get the voting started.

The first category you’ll be voting on is the ‘Funniest Person’.

The nominees for this category are…

Gillyflower

Jane

Brummiebabe

Head over to Rhydian’s official Bebo page here where there is a poll set up for you to add your votes to.

Get voting now and stop by soon to find out the results – more voting next week!

The award winners will receive a signed Rhydian photograph.

The album is, as yet, untitled and Rhydian is welcoming suggestions from you - his fans! Add yours in the forum here and Rhydian will be sure to take a look.

You can already pre-order the album right here - get in early and be amongst the first to have a copy of your own.

Head over to Rhydian’s blog to find out more details and keep checking in for more news to be revealed over the coming weeks.

Here’s what he had to say for himself…

pinkfairy
After a long recovery with my broken leg.  Have you ever broken any bones?  Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Rhydian: I hope you’re fully recovered and back to full fitness! Sorry to hear you’ve had a broken leg. I’ve never had that bad a break, but I have broken my nose twice playing rugby and I’ve broken quite a few fingers. Fortunately nothing to the extent of a broken arm or leg, so I feel for you! I did have my ear just about ripped off though, and lost a few teeth!

Rhydian’s no.1 fan
Would you ever go back to your natural hair colour?

Rhydian: Umm… maybe! I’ve got a ginger beard at the moment! I like to experiment with hair colours. I don’t think I will go back to ginger, though.

And what’s your favourite TV programme?

Rhydian:  I like Have I Got News For You and Friday Night with Jonathan Ross.

ShaunaB
Whether it’s your kind of music or not - everyone has a favourite - The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?

Rhydian: I like them both for different reasons… I probably like more of the Beatles songs. However, there are a couple of Rolling Stones which are amazing, such as Ruby Tuesday and Paint it Black…

wilkie
What special thing that you do to make you feel better when you are sad?

Rhydian: I really like to exercise - it’s a good replacement for chocolate….

Rach4
If you were stuck on a desert island for the rest of your life (god help us!) what song would you take with you?

Rhydian: I will have to say “How Great is our God”

Carol
Although you probably rehearsed for hours on end, were you ever worried your mind would go blank and you’d forget the words of a song?

Rhydian: I don’t worry about it. You remember the words when you are on stage…

Budgie
You have worked with some amazing people all over the world, if you could choose one country to record an album and a composer (dead or alive) to help you, where would you go and who would you chose?

Rhydian: There is no need to go anywhere else! We have it all in Britain! We have the best studios and the best producers here. I’d love to record an album in Abbey Road one day. And a composer dead or alive that I would love to work with - Rogers and Hammerstein… but let’s say Giacomo Puccini. As for modern day composers, I don’t have a preference, although I’d love John Bucchino to write a song for me.

His Bebo page is here, MySpace is here and Facebook right here!

Rhydian doesn’t currently have a Twitter account and is only represented on the other social networks at the links above.

We know there’s already an ‘Ask Rhydian’ area in the official forum (that we’ll be checking out to grab questions for Rhydian that have already been posted). But, this is a reminder to anyone that has a question for Rhydian but hasn’t got round to posting it yet.

So, if you’ve got a question you’d like to ask - post it right here.

Try and make it as original as possible - the funniest, most interesting, or most thought provoking questions are more likely to get put to Rhydian.

Follow this link to see the interview where Rhydian talks about his phenomenal fan support on tour, the pressure of X-factor and having to learn the lyrics to dancing queen in 10 minutes!

Who could forget the heady heights of quiz week 3 where nearly every fan guessed Rhydian’s three-word self-description correctly - ‘Blessed, focused and loyal’?

And who could forget the dismal lows of quiz week 5 where so many fans couldn’t quite believe that Rhydian’s greatest fashion disaster would be ‘a killer white and pink shell suit’?

Joking aside, it’s been a ball and we hope you’ve learnt some things you never knew about the man behind the amazing voice.

Firstly, the answer to last week’s question – Rhydian was asked to describe his fans in one word and the word he used was, of course, ‘amazing’ because that’s what you are!

Now, here’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for…

Eight winners, chosen at random from all the correct answers, one winner from each week – drum roll please…

Week 1: Anngie1
Week 2: becky d
Week 3: sweetpea55
Week 4 : marr
Week 5: flyingfish
Week 6: wilkie
Week 7: Kathryn Richards
Week 8: nonna

Congratulations - each winner will receive a piece of signed Rhydian merchandise, please PM Admin on the forum with your addresses so we can send your prize to you.

1) When we would announce the weekly winners of the Rhydian Quiz AND

2) When the quiz was drawing to a close.

So, to answer both these questions - this is the final week of the quiz and we will be announcing the lucky winners this Friday!

8 Quiz questions means 8 quiz winners who will be picked at random from all the correct answers from the past 8 weeks. We won’t be awarding prizes to correct answers posted after the answer was revealed so don’t add posts to old quiz news stories now. The winners will each receive a piece of signed Rhydian merchandise.

Now for the answer to last week’s question…

This one fooled alot of you - loads of people thought Rhydian would want Anthony Hopkins to play him in a movie of his life but in fact, Rhydian’s real answer was Rhys Ifans! Well done to those of you who did manage to get that right.

The final question in our quiz is one about you, the fans..

We asked Rhydian to…

...describe your fans in one word?

Which of these do you think was his correct answer?

- Eccentric
- Adorable
- Amazing

Post your answers below to let us know which you think is the correct answer.

Thank you to everyone who entered, there were some fab reviews from several members of the forum that we haven’t had time to feature, so make sure you check them out in the thread here.

Over the past few days we’ve posted two of our favourite reviews right here in the news feed but sadly, we now have to narrow it down to just one lucky winner who will receive a Liverpool Pops ticket signed by Rhydian!

So, without further ado, let us say a big congratulations to Fay whose review we featured on Wednesday here.

Well done Fay - please PM Admin with your address and we’ll get your signed ticket out to you.

This time it’s a brilliant account of the night by forum member Percy.

Make sure you stop by later today to find out who wins the Liverpool Pops ticket signed by Rhydian!

Well Rhydian delivered another stunning and faultless performance last night. Not as chatty as I’ve seen him before but he mentioned he was recovering from laryngitis so that may account for it. It was detectable in his spoken voice but not in song.

So Rhydian gave us another fantastic night and once more I feel very privileged to have been in the audience watching this young man grow in stature with each performance. He can’t get any better can he?  I wouldn’t bet on it.

We’ve had some great responses and brilliant, descriptive write-ups which you can check out right here in the forum.

Over the next few days we’ll be featuring some of our favourites and on Friday we’ll announce one lucky winner who’ll be receiving a Liverpool Pops ticket signed by Rhydian himself.

Here’s our first favourite – some extracts from a brilliant review by forum member Fay, read her review in full here

Once the interval was over the great moment arrived and the now familiar band (apart from the keyboard player) and backing singers came onto the stage and Rhydian was heard singing ‘MacArthur Park’ offstage…

He managed to get round and speak to everyone although he must by then have been so tired and finally climbed onto the bus to leave. We had started to walk away but we stopped to wave to him and he blew us another little kiss as he went by. It was the perfect end to a perfect evening.

Last week we asked you which two artists Rhydian would most like to duet with and we’re pleased to say that – with a fine return to form – nearly everyone who entered got the question right. The correct answer was Christina Aguilera and Leona - well done to you all!

Let’s see how you fare with today’s question – we asked Rhydian…

Who would you like to play you in a movie of your life?

Which of these three answers do you think is Rhydian’s real one:

- I think Anthony Hopkins is an incredible actor I’d be honoured to have him play me as an older man.

- Ioan Gruffudd, though we don’t look that similar.

- Rhys Ifans is the first actor that comes to mind.

Post below to let us know which answer you think is true.

We’d love to see your reviews here in the forum and we’ll be featuring some of the best right write-ups right here on the main site in the coming week.

Our favourite review will also receive a Liverpool pops ticket signed by Rhydian so get writing and make sure your review catches our eye.

So now, without further ado, we can reveal that the correct answer to Rhydian’s biggest ever fashion disaster was…

- My killer white and pink shell suit back in the late 80’s, thinking it was the bees’ knees, looking back it really wasn’t.

Who would have thought?

Here’s your next riddle – which of the three options below is Rhydian’s real answer to the question:

Name two artists you would like to duet with?

- Celine Dion and Elaine Paige
- Christina Aguilera and Leona
- Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.

Post below to let us know which you think is true.

Yesterday’s winner fitted just about everything they could think of into their idea for Rhydian’s perfect day, so we decided that today’s entry should be something a bit simpler.
So a big congratulations goes to wilkie for her short, perfect day poem.

wilkie wins two tickets to see Rhydian live at the Echo Arena on 30th July as part of the Liverpool Pops Festival -please PM Admin with your address so we can send you the tickets.

Here’s wilkie‘s entry…

”A walk in the park
Two hours at the gym
A quiet relaxed lunch
At a quaint country inn.
An afternoon of laughing
And having lots of fun
Maybe go for a swim
Or just enjoy the sun
A home cooked dinner for the family
Then out for the evening
Now what should we do?!
Then the day is over
I can’t believe it’s through

And now I have to say good-bye to you!”

Thanks to everyone who entered – we’re sorry we couldn’t feature more of your perfect day ideas.

The entries were so considered and full of in-depth Rhydian knowledge that we wanted to include them all.

However, we had to choose just one winner and, for it’s sheer detail and outlandish, creative flair we can announce that winner number one is Cherry Blossom.

Cherry Blossom wins two tickets to see Rhydian live at the Echo Arena on 30th July as part of the Liverpool Pops Festival.

Here’s her entry…

“A day with Rhydian

Nite Nite. Sleep tight. God Bless. Xx”

Congratulations Cherry Blossom – please PM Admin on the forum with your address details so we can send your tickets to you.

Don’t worry - to any of you who’ve gone for a calmer, low-key description of Rhydian’s perfect day, tomorrow’s winner is very different – make sure you drop by to find out who they are.

Rhydian’s answer was option 3,

“Australia. I’d love to go one day. I’d love to go to the Opera House.”

We reckon this week’s question might be even trickier – take a look…

What has been your biggest ever fashion disaster?

And here are your options:

- My killer white and pink shell suit back in the late 80’s, thinking it was the bees’ knees, looking back it really wasn’t.

- I suppose some people might say it was the X-factor glitter suit but I’ll stand by that decision!

- For a time when I was a teenager I was all about the denim, on denim, on denim – in retrospect that probably had a touch of the fashion disaster about it.

Post below to let us know which you think is Rhydian’s real answer.

To be in with a chance of winning a pair we want you to get creative and show us how well you know Rhydian – and here’s how…

If you had a day with Rhydian, what would you do to make it perfect for him? Your perfect day can involve absolutely anything - sports? Theatre? A day-trip abroad? Anything as long as it’s original!

Upload your ‘perfect day’ suggestions here in the forum and we’ll feature our two favourites on Thursday and Friday next week.

Each post featured here on the official site will receive a pair of tickets to Rhydian’s performance at the Echo Arena on the 30th July.

Last week we asked you ‘How would Rhydian describe himself in three words.’

We had loads of answers, with most of you guessing correctly that the answer was ‘Blessed, focused and loyal.’

This week’s question is ‘Which country would you most like to visit that you have not been to yet?’

- I’d love to go to Peru and see all the Aztec/Inca remains. I find all that stuff fascinating.

- I think Paris is on the list for sure. It is one of the most glamorous cities on earth and I love French food

- Well, it has to be Sydney. I would really love to go to the Opera House.

Which do you think is Rhydian’s real answer?

Let us know below and we’ll reveal all next week.

Last week we asked you to pick Rhydian’s correct response to the question, ‘What car would you most like to own?’ and we can now tell you that it was number 2: ‘I love classic Aston Martins but I wouldn’t say no to a new DBS either - I’m an Aston Martin fan at heart.’

Loads of you got the correct answer this week so congratulations – you know Rhydian’s car-tastes well.

This week’s question is, ‘How would you describe yourself in three words?’ Which of the below options do you think was Rhydian’s response?

- Calm, decisive and dynamic.
- Blessed, focussed and loyal.
- Eccentric, forgetful and energetic.

Let us know what you think the answer is and we’ll let you know the correct response right here next week!

Our first question was ‘Is Rhydian a good cook?’ You guys were pretty mixed in your responses but we can now reveal that the answer is, ‘Well, put it this way, I live alone so I wouldn’t say I’m a good cook but I never starve and I’m great at booking restaurants.’  Well done everyone who got it right! 

This week’s question is ‘What car would you most like to own?’ Which of these do you think was Rhydian’s response? 

-  A brand new Rolls Royce with my own chauffeur. I love driving but I like the idea of having my own driver even more and that can only be done with a Rolls! Haha…
- I love classic Aston Martins but I wouldn’t say no to a new DBS either I’m an Aston Martin fan at heart.
- I would really love an old beaten up Corvette. That would totally be my dream car. I’d love to travel across America in one.

Let us know what you think the answer is and we’ll let you know right here next week! 

Then we’ll be giving you three answers to choose from.

For the next seven days we want you to have a think and let us know which you think is the correct answer below.

Every week we’ll be revealing something new about Rhydian and pick a winner who will win some signed Rhydian merchandise. But it will be a surprise exactly what!

To kick off proceedings we asked…

Are you a good cook?

Do you think he said…

-    Well, put it this way, I live alone so I wouldn’t say I’m a good cook but I never starve and I’m great at booking restaurants.
-    Yeah, I’m not bad. My Mum taught me well. I love a Sunday roast. Pork is my speciality.
-    I’m ok. I’m no Heston Blumenthal but I do love experimenting in the kitchen. I have a secret recipe book.

Let us know which you think it is and we’ll reveal the answer next Monday.

I hope you’re all having a great summer. I am really excited as I am heading over to Spain soon for my holiday. I can’t wait. As well as going on tour, I’ve been performing at lots of corporate events as well as working on my next album. So it will be great to have a break.

The tour was really amazing and meeting you all means so much. I think some of you needed the rest as much as me afterwards, with some of you travelling so far. Your support is really appreciated. I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did. Thank you so much for all your flowers, cards and other presents. A special thank you goes out to all of you who donated money to my Mum’s charity.

Speaking of my Mum it was her birthday the other day and I took her out for dinner to her favourite restaurant on one of the highest mountains in Southern Europe. It was a really lovely day.

I bought a new laptop the other day too and an iPhone which was really something new for me. It’s like ‘Welcome to the 21st Century, Rhydian!’ I am off to work out how to use it! Haha…

Thanks again everyone,

God bless and loads of love,

Rhydian. Xxx’

‘Rhydian was absolutely amazing. Right from the start he drew the audience in and it was a pleasure to be a part of his world for the hour and half he was on stage. I didn’t want it to end.’
Sally, Reading Hexagon theatre

‘My first Rhydian concert was tonight in Portsmouth and I can’t stop thinking about it.  He was wonderful and I was spellbound from start to finish.’
MandyC, Portsmouth Guildhall

‘I just got home from the Bridgewater Hall and I was totally blown away. I was dreading the end of the show and the lights coming on to reveal black mascara trails down my face! I could easily have sat there for 10, 15, 20 more songs.’
Kathryn, Manchester Bridgewater Hall

‘Rhydian poured his heart and soul out as he delivered one memorable song after another, after another, after another…. Not once did his voice waiver during the 90 minutes that he had the audience in the palm of his hand.’
Elouise, Hammersmith Apollo

Have you got tickets to see Rhydian yet? Check out Rhydian’s Official Tour Diary and see when he’s visiting you! And once you’ve seen him, share your reviews over at the forum!

She will be taking one lucky friend to see Rhyd play Birmingham’s Symphony Hall on 19th May.

Congratulations Sarah, have a great night!

All alternatives have been considered, and it has tried to be rescheduled but it just does not look viable.

Rhydian’s management team send out a massive apology and if you are a ticketholder for the event, please return to your point of purchase.

Click here and fill out the form, clearly stating which gig you would like to go to.

The closing date is Friday midday.

This comes as a big thank you to you guys who have supported him from the start!

But if you are going to see Rhydian, be sure to leave your review in the forum as we will be publishing our favourites on the homepage!

Just click here and you can watch the brand new trailer for Rhydian’s forthcoming TV special.

Rhydian will perform a range of songs, including hits from his debut album. The Prince of Wales’ official harpist, Claire Jones, will join Rhydian during the concert, recorded at Venue Cymru, Llandudno earlier this year in front of a packed house.  After the concert, fans will get another chance to enjoy Rhydian with a special documentary following the singer during his first whirlwind year following his X Factor success.

Let us know what you think in Rhydian’s Official Forum.

Rhydian will be playing in front of an audience of 11, 000, with Only Men Aloud supporting him on 30th July.

But tickets are selling fast so make sure you buy yours at the sites below…

Liverpool Summer Pops Festival 2009

Echo Arena: 0844 8000 400

Ticketmaster: 0844 847 1616

Ticketline: 0151 256 5555

See Tickets: 0871 220 0260

Gigantic: 0115 959 7908

Taking place at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, Rhydian performed in a red sequinned tuxedo in front of a diverse audience including Barbara Windsor and Timmy Mallett.

To see photos from the event see Rhydian’s gallery section.

The Variety Club raises money for sick, disabled and disadvantaged children.

For more information see www.varietyclub.org.uk 

If you missed the show don’t worry as nonwatcyn has kindly uploaded it to YouTube and you can watch the whole show here.

Here’s what he had to say…

Are you giving anything up for lent this year? Do you normally give anything up?
No. I’ve tried to give up chocolate, but to no avail.

When you’re touring around the country do management book you into company hotels or do they expect you to camp out in a Winnebago?
Because I’m a fitness freak I have to stay in a hotel that has a gym and there aren’t many Winnebagos with a gym!

Who is your favourite female singer?
I have a number of favourites. I think kd Lang is brilliant live. From the classical world I love a lady called Linda Esther Gray. I used to love Angela Gheorghiu. My favourite musical theatre singer would be Ruthie Henshaw.

Make sure you put your questions to Rhydian here in his official forum!

Check it out on our video player here.

From www.rhydianroberts.com and of course Rhydian himself, Happy Mothers’ Day!!

First of all he will be stopping by the Alan Titchmarsh Show on 18th March. The show is on ITV1 at 3pm.

Then on the following Saturday, 21st March, he will be dropping by The National Lottery to have a chat.

Make sure you let him know what you think of the appearances in Rhydian’s official forum!

The show is being recorded exclusively for S4C and will see Rhydian sing classic tracks in both Welsh and English.

We can now reveal that the three lucky winners are…

Richard from Bristol
Laura from Bradford
Richard from Weston-Super-Mare

Congratulations guys, we will be in touch shortly with everything you need to know.

For everyone else going, have a great time and tell everyone about it in Rhydian’s Official Forum!

The Special is set for broadcast in April and will include performances of tracks from his platinum album as well as other favourite songs. As he is appearing in his home country, Rhydian will be singing the majority of tracks in Welsh.

Tickets for this event were so popular that they got snapped up within minutes of being released, but fear not - we have 3 more pairs to give away!

To be in with a chance of winning yourself a pair of tickets to this great event all you need to do is fill your details here to enter the draw.

We’ll be announcing the winners on Friday (27/02/09), so make sure you check in then to see if you’re one of the lucky three!

The lucky winner who will receive a Valentines Day phone call from Rhydian is forum member ‘Jane’.

Congratulations Jane!!

To read Jane’s winning entry – which included some classic Valentine tracks - head to the forum (here) now.

Essentially we want you to post your five track Valentine’s playlist and explain why each of the songs mean something to you or why they make you think of ‘love’.

Add your playlist here in Rhydian’s forum and the winner will be picked Friday, so make sure you come back to the site then!

The winner will be receiving a phone call on Saturday which is not only Valentine’s Day but also Rhydian’s birthday!!

But check out the video and good luck!

Yes, since reaching the final of The X Factor, Rhydian’s album has gone platinum, he has announced a tour of the UK and even returned to the show that made him, this time as a special guest!

Now as the next step in his exciting career, Rhydian will be appearing in his first Television special to be broadcat in April. He will be singing tracks from his album as well as other favourites. As he is appearing in his home country, Rhydian will be singing the majority of tracks in Welsh.

Tickets are free and will be available from 9:30am Monday 2nd February. Please contact Venue Cymru to secure your tickets! Maximum of four tickets per application.

Contact details:
Website:www.venuecymru.co.uk
Telephone: 01492 872000

Rhydian will also make a special guest appearance on ‘Can i Gymru’ (Song for Wales) on 1 March where he will be part of the jury and also perform one song live.

But now, we have set up an official merchandise thread, so please post all your ideas here! Be as creative as you like and remember you could be seeing them at the tour later in the year!

Thanks to all your votes he took first place, alongside Mariah Carey, after his show-stopping performance of ‘The Impossible Dream’ in November.

To see the full story on ITV’s site along with their performances, click here.

He will be singing ‘The Prayer’, from his self-titled debut, as well as having a chat with Aled Jones about his career so far.

Make sure you tune in from 16:55pm on the 22nd February to see Rhydian’s unmissable performance on the long-running show.

This time Rhydian answers on everything from how he formed his current image, to his favourite type of tea!

Rhydian will be continuing to answer the best of your questions in the coming months, so if you’ve yet to ask him one, head to the forum here and get posting.

Rhian: I love your current image – did you make a conscious decision to move away from your original one - the X Factor image - or was it something that happened as part of a natural progression?
Rhydian: A natural progression I would say, you evolve over time. Variety is the spice of life and this is my image now, but who knows what it will be in the future.

Faye: Have you made any New Year’s resolutions?
Rhydian: No, I don’t really make them as I find that people make them then break them in the first few weeks. I guess I said I should eat less chocolate.

Athena: What direction do you want to go with your next album?
Rhydian: Well let’s not jump the gun - but I love your optimism! There’s no definite 2nd album - give us a chance, I’ve only just released the first album! If I was, then there’s loads of material that I’ve got that didn’t go on the first album.

Stella a: Do you like PG, Typhoo or Tetley tea?
Rhydian: I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to tea; Fortnum and Masons actually. I think Tetley’s is rank. I don’t really mind, but I don’t like Tetley’s. I like Kenyan tea from Waitrose - it’s the best!

Ann: What’s the story behind your tuning whistle used at your first X-factor audition?
Rhydian: It’s a pitch pipe. I’ve lost it! It’s a shame as it was given to me by my late Grandad and I’ve lost it - bummer!  It was of great sentimental value to me!

Jo: Are you afraid of anything?
Rhydian: I don’t really have any fears as such, but what I can’t stand is being trapped in a small room with bats or birds flying around me - it’s a bit weird.

Sophie: I love your hair, what products do you use on it?
Rhydian: Loads of bleach. I’m glad you like my hair Soph, but I don’t know what my stylist puts in it – but you need a dangerous amount of bleach, so I wouldn’t advise doing it.

Ratty: It made my day when I found out that you included ‘Who Wants to Live Forever’ on your album. If you decided to sing it on tour would you sing it the way you’ve recorded it or would you include the other lyrics as well?
Rhydian: Great question this. Actually yeah if I was to do it on tour I would probably do the whole version, which I also love.

Prince Harry, Gordon Brown and the Chancellor Alistair Dowling were also there to hand out awards as was Woman’s own Editor Karen Livermore who goes on to explain, ‘It’s always a real honour and privilege to meet the children and their families. As the families told us afterwards, it was a day they will never forget.’

You can see some more photos from the event in the gallery section.

Thanks to all of you, Rhydian has gone on to sell over 300,000 copies of his album.

This is incredible and Rhydian will be coming on to write a very special message to all of you very soon.

In the meantime, thanks from all of us here at http://www.rhydianroberts.com/ and if you’ve not picked up your copy yet, you can order it here online.

Also you can leave your messages of congratulations here in the forum!

The winner is Pepper - congratulations! You will receive a phone call Christmas message from Rhydian himself at three o clock this afternoon.

You can check out Pepper’s amazing card to Rhydian here on the forum.

A big thank you to everyone who left a message or card for Rhydian on the forum - there were some brilliant posts.

We want to see your best messages and designs which we’ll be showing to Rhydian.

We’ll also pick a favourite and Rhydian will call the winner to wish them a Happy Christmas!

The closing date is this Monday night - 22nd December. Make sure you check back to the forum here  at 10am on Tuesday to see if you’re the winning entry.

If you win, PM Admin immediately on the forum here and Rhydian will call you that afternoon.

On 11th December Rhydian will be performing live on GMTV!

The performance will be followed by a web-chat with the man himself - tune in from 6:00 to 9:25am to hear Rhydian sing and find out what he’s got to say.

Also, for those of you living in Ireland - don’t forget - Rhydian will be performing live on the Late Late Show in Dublin tonight – RTE at 9:30pm.

Fear not, because you can still get your hands on the album by clicking on (or heading to the stores of) any of following major retailers:

Amazon

HMV

Play.com

Zavvi

and digitally at iTunes here .

He will now be playing Dublin’s Olympia Hall on 25th and 26th May.

As well as that Rhydian will be appearing at Belfast’s Waterfront on 27th May.

Tickets go on sale this Friday and you’ll be able to order them here.

You can see all of Rhydian’s 2009 dates in the Live Dates section.

A massive thank you to all those that have supported Rhydian so far. Keep spreading the word and he could well be on his way to number 1!

This time Rhydian answers on everything from where he’ll be spending his Christmas to what his thoughts are on mushy peas! Rhydian will be continuing to answer your questions, so if you’ve yet to ask him one, head here to get posting.

Pinkfairy: Will you be having a quiet Christmas at home? Or spending Christmas Day working or with friends?
I’m not quite sure yet, but what I would like to do is spend Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day at home in Wales. We have a very traditional Christmas: opening gifts around the tree, the fire is lit, we have a turkey, play silly games, my Gran and my brother both come over.

Emmaa: Are you a morning person or a night person?
100% night! I’m not a morning person at all, but I’m having to adapt to the morning lifestyle with all the work around the new album. 5am starts!!

Rattie: I would think most of the Great British Public love our traditional food, in particular good old fish and chips. However, people are often divided over the peas! That’s the question then, do you like your peas mushy or not?
Well, I don’t dislike mushy peas but I prefer normal peas, preferably petit pois.

WelshShell: Following your old school mates’ (Andy Powell) very impressive MOTM debut in this weekend’s exciting and nerve-wracking rugby match, I want to ask who are your heroes in rugby in the past and present Welsh squads? Mine is Martyn Williams… an absolute legend!
Martyn Williams is a very good choice! He’s a great player and a good ambassador for Wales. I would say that in terms of past rugby players, mine would be Barry John and Gareth Edwards. They represent that year when Wales was untouchable, and Gareth is a good friend of mine.
Currently I’d say Shane Williams is world-class.

Brummiebabe: My nickname is Monica (as in Monica from Friends) as I am organised and like to be tidy. Would you regard yourself as a tidy person? Especially now you have your own place?
I like being tidy as well, I’m quite methodical and organised, so yeah, for a bloke I’m quite tidy! My mum drilled it in to me.

Emma: Just wondering, is there anything that really annoys you or gets you angry, and what do you do to relieve that anger?
I find road rage on the streets of London unnecessary - that annoys me. I wish people could be more patient!

Rhydian’s no.1 fan: What’s your favourite Christmas carol? Mine is ‘O Holy Night’ - your version in particular?
I like ‘O Holy Night’ too, and I like the ‘Christmas Song’ by Nat King Cole. I generally like most Christmas tunes.

Sweetcaroline: Is there one special venue you would like to sing in - and why?
Good question sweetcaroline! There are a number of venues around the world I’d love to perform at, but the most desirable would have to be a toss-up between Sydney Opera House and the Hollywood Bowl.

Angels Shadow: If you had to choose a movie title for your life story? What would that title be?
Tricky question! Well I couldn’t possible choose one, but ‘Impossible Dream’ would be quite autobiographical I suppose.

Here’s where you can catch him…

27th November - Channel Five News
5th December - Late, Late Show RTE; Performance
7th December - Sports Personality of the Year, BBC Wales; Performance
24th December - Great Ormond Street Carol Concert, LBC 97.3FM;  Performance,6pm
24th December - The Charlotte Church Show, Channel 4
25th December - Documentary about Rhydian, S4C Wales
1st January - BBC Radio Wales; Interview, 3.15pm

Tickets for this date will be on sale from 10.00am Tuesday 25th November at the usual ticketing outlets.

Ticketmaster
0870 534 4444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk
Seetickets
0870 264 3333
www.seetickets.com

After a show-stopping performance on X-Factor at the weekend, you can now get your hands on the track he performed, The Impossible Dream and 10 other stand-out tracks via his debut album, out now.

If you wish to buy online, here are all the links you need…

HMV
Amazon
Play.com
iTunes
Zavvi

And we’re giving one special fan the chance to win an album signed by the man himself. Feeling lucky? All you have to do is follow this link to enter!

Meanwhile, Rhydian says: ‘You can’t rush a good album; we wanted to make something timeless, full of great songs, not just an X Factor tribute…’

‘Whatever song I sing, I try to put my own stamp on it. I am classically trained, but I don’t regard myself as an opera singer. I quite like the fact that I don’t fit into any particular style. I just try and connect with a song myself and then, if I’m moved, I can actually make a magnetic connection with an audience…’

Meanwhile, check into the video area to see Rhydian signing the album.

As you know, Rhydian shot the video recently with the majestic scenery of Iceland as a very fitting backdrop. If you’ve yet to see the behind-the-scenes ‘making of’ clip, you can find that here on the site as well.

And you’ll be pleased to hear that we’ve just launched Rhydian’s Youtube channel, giving you another opportunity to interact with the man beyond his Myspace, Bebo and Facebook pages - click here to check it out.

The date for the Cambridge Corn Exchange is also to be rescheduled and will be announced at midday on Monday.

Meanwhile, there have been some issues with ticketing for Rhydian’s Rhyl date, but these should now have been rectified: tickets are available now.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If you’ve got any concerns, please get in touch with the point of purchase.

From 10am tomorrow morning you will be able to get your hands on tickets to see Rhydian live in 2009 at loads of dates across the UK!

Rhydian will be delighting audiences from April to May and here’s where you can catch him:

Tuesday April 28th 2009 - Rhyl Pavillion

Saturday 23rd May 2009 - Sheffield City Hall

Tickets go on sale from 10am tomorrow morning from the following outlets:

Ticketmaster
0870 534 4444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Seetickets
0870 264 3333
www.seetickets.com

Head to the forum here to see venue seating plans and more details and discussions about what promises to be a thrilling experience.

Get ready - Rhydian the Tour is coming!

Rhydian will be visiting HMV in Cardiff to meet fans and sign copies of his self-titled album on its day of release, next Monday 24th November. He’ll be ready and waiting from 6:00pm so make sure you head down if you’re in the area!

And if you just can’t wait to get your hands on the new album, then perhaps this will help – here’s two more album preview tracks for you to enjoy.

Today it’s tracks 9 and 10 – ‘I Believe’ and ‘I’m Coming Home Again’. Head to the music page to listen now!

But what does he think about this year’s X-Factor contestants? Well, the man has posted his thoughts and advice on the finalists’ official Bebo pages, so have a look around to see what he thinks of their performances to date before the big event.

Click on any of the links below to head to a finalists’ page.

Ruth

Alexandra

JLS

Eoghan

Rachel

Diana

‘Rhydian’ the album is available from 24th November - pre-order your copy here.

Here’s your chance to check out an exclusive interview with Rhydian, conducted by the current star of the Phantom of the Opera, Ramin Karimloo. 

Click here to discover why Rhydian still has such a passion for the musical, Phantom of the Opera.

We’re giving you the chance to go behind-the-scenes with him in our exclusive video which sees him performing against the spectacular scenery and revealing what it’s all about.

Click here to check it out.

Get ready for track 7; Rhydian’s spectacular version of the iconic ‘Westside Story’ showstopper ‘Somewhere’.

And prepare to be blown away by track 8; the evocative ‘Not a Dry Eye in the House’.

Head to the music section and check out these new previews now!

‘Rhydian’ the album is available from 24th November - pre-order your copy here.

This time it’s tracks 5 and 6; Rhydian’s distinctive version of the classic, ‘Bridge over Troubled Water’ and the moving, ‘There will be a Time’.

So, head over to the music player, get listening and enjoy!

‘Rhydian’ the album is available from 24th November. Pre-order your copy here.

This time it’s tracks 3 and 4 from the album: the powerful ‘What If’ - a duet with Idina Menzel - and the beautiful, ‘The Prayer’.

Head over to the music section to check them out now, and don’t forget to drop by next week for more track-previews.

‘Rhydian’ the album is available from 24th November.

‘The reason we went to Iceland was because of the dramatic scenery that really fits in with the epic nature of the song.’

We can now reveal a behind-the-scenes image to give you a taste of what the video might look like.

Enjoy…

Keep checking this site for more info. on the upcoming video and album.

As a special treat for Rhydian fans we’ll be uploading previews of the album tracks for you to enjoy day by day!

First up are tracks 1 and 2 from the album: the stunning, ‘Impossible Dream’ and the mesmeric, ‘To Where you Are’.

Head over to the music section to listen now, and don’t forget to drop by later in the week to hear more exclusive album track-previews.

‘Rhydian’ the album is set for release on the 24th November.

Friday 21st November
- BBC Breakfast News - BBC1, 7:00 - 9:15

Thursday 27th November
- BBC News 24
- Channel 5 News

Friday 5th December
- Dublin: The Late Late Show - RTE One, 21:30

Sunday 7th December
- Cardiff: BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year - BBC Radio Wales, 20:00 and BBC Two Wales, 21:00

So add the date to your diary, come along to meet the man himself and get your CD signed.

You can now catch him on the following shows:

Saturday 8th November
Tim Smith show, Radio Berkshire

Tuesday 18th November
Steve Wright show, BBC Radio 2

Saturday 22nd November
Rhydian’s Top 50 Epic Videos, 4Music.

Wednesday 26th November
10:30am: This Morning - Performance and interview, ITV1

Friday 28th November
5pm: Richard and Judy – Interview, Sky Channel 109, Virgin TV 124

More events are being confirmed, so please keep on checking back.

The whole event will be covered by Real Radio, but please listen out for broadcast details.

Here’s what we can confirm so far but listen out to your local stations in Wales, Warwickshire, Birmingham, Stoke on Trent and London and the surrounding areas to hear when he’s on air as schedules often change last minute.

Monday 3rd November
7.55am: Wave Swansea, Breakfast show
3pm: BBC Radio Wales, Roy Noble show

Tuesday 4th November
3pm: BBC Radio WM, Les Ross show
3.30pm: BBC Radio C and W, Bob Brolly show

Arty: Do you have a car at the moment? If not, what would your favourite choice be - money no object! Rhydian: I’m currently living in London so I don’t need a card, but one day it would be nice to have an Aston Martin DBS.

Tracy Smith: Did you ever find yourself having to get a part-time job whilst at university and did you like it? Rhydian: I did actually, my dad always encouraged me to find work and I never wanted to be a lazy student. I’ve had a few jobs in my time - the worst job of my life was carving beef in the height of summer at the Royal Welsh Show! While I was at university I was a concert steward and that was such a cushy job. The money was peanuts but the staff were lovely and I got to watch concerts free!

Sophie Langan: I have loads of phobias and I would like to know what you’re scared of? Rhydian: I don’t really have any to be honest. I don’t really like mice but I wouldn’t go so far as to say I have a phobia of them.

Nonna: I was wondering if you speak another language other than Welsh and English? If not, which other language would you love to speak fluently? Rhydian: I studied French so I can get by in that and I sing in Italian and German as well. I’d love to be able to speak Mandarin fluently though.

Sweetpoisen: Is there any advice you would give to someone considering entering the X Factor? Rhydian: It’s the clichés but they’re true: follow your dreams if you truly believe you can do it, grow a thick skin, be prepared to work as a team with everyone, be as nice as you can to people, remember why you’re there and never let the nerves get the better of you.

StarGirl: Do you have a favourite contestant on the X Factor this year? If so, who is it? Rhydian: I actually think they’re all brilliant, I don’t have a favourite. One week I like somebody, next week it’s another person. It’s still early days, so I’m waiting to see who will turn out to be the most consistent.

Brummiebabe: Do you ever have time to read and if so what books do you enjoy reading. If you could be a favourite character from a book you have read who would you be? Rhydian: I really like Chart Throb by Ben Elton, it’s very funny. If I could be any character it would have to be James Bond from the Ian Fleming books.

Carrie: Eventually, when you settle down and want to buy a home etc, will you want to live in Wales? Rhydian: I love Wales and always hope to have a home there. We’ve got two family places there as it stands so I’ll always have somewhere to stay, but I wouldn’t mind buying a place in Pembroke.

Nicola: Have you permanently set aside your classical repertoire or will we have the opportunity to hear you perform operatic arias or lieder sometime in the future? Rhydian: Great question Nicola! No, I haven’t completely turned my back on it. I continue to get classical lessons and currently see three different teachers. One day I hope to record an album of arias. In 10 years time my voice will be completely different so who knows what will happen then.

Emma: Do you watch Friends? If so, which character do you like best? Rhydian: I love friends! I love them all but my favourite is Joey. Love his comic timing!

Rhydnut: Reading around your fan forums, what is it like to read about yourself through so many other people’s eyes? Rhydian: Very touching and most inspiring.

EmmaLovesRhydian: What has been the highlight of your year since the X-Factor? Rhydian: Spending time in LA writing with Walter Afanasieff. He’s a genius! Oh yeah, and getting Idina to sing on my album! Bolton was highly memorable too!

We’re pleased to be able to release a selection of new shots exclusively to members of his mailing list though you can check out this teaser in advance right here…

So if you’ve yet to sign up, there couldn’t be a better time to do so…

The coming fortnight sees him working to promote it with a handful of private events, a series of press interviews and a Local Radio Tour, kicking off on 2nd November which will take him to Manchester, Edinburgh, Newcastle and of course, Cardiff (more details to follow). Next week, he will also be involved in 50 Epic Videos which will be broadcast on Magic and 4Music in the coming weeks.
There’s lots still to be confirmed but we’ll keep you posted…

Meanwhile, we can also reveal further details about his magnificent debut, which is crammed full of passionate, inspiring songs performed in his own inimitable style.

He’s set to touch the hearts of millions with his mesmerising classical voice and his impeccable technique as displayed on his polished debut performance is the result of a lifetime passion for singing and an unparalleled commitment to his craft.

The album has been almost a year in the making and Rhydian has worked with an array of producers, with mentors including Steve Mac, Desmond Child, Quiz & Larossi, Per Magnusson and David Kreuger.

An array of original tracks have been written especially for Rhydian, including the heart-stirring ‘I’m Coming Home Again’. The album will also feature his showstoppers from the X Factor, Simon and Garfunkel’s ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, West Side Story’s ‘Somewhere’ and ‘What If’, a fantastic duet with Broadway star Idina Menzel.

The stunning lead single ‘Impossible Dream’ will be unveiled exclusively on the X Factor on Saturday, 22nd November when Rhydian gives the nation a sneak preview of the album’s rich material. The album then arrives on 24th November.

Rhydian commented, ‘You can’t rush a good album; we wanted to make something timeless, full of great songs, not just an X Factor tribute.’

Rhydian added: ‘Whatever song I sing, I try to put my own stamp on it. I am classically trained, but I don’t regard myself as an opera singer. I quite like the fact that I don’t fit into any particular style. I just try and connect with a song myself and then, if I’m moved, I can actually make a magnetic connection with an audience.’

Meanwhile, here’s what he had to say about your others… enjoy!
rattie: I’m trying to find the motivation to get back to regular exercise as it was a good habit I let slide. I wondered, with your busy schedule whether you find it more difficult to motivate yourself to train as often as you used to and do you think you’ll find the time one day to train again for the marathon?
Rhydian: That’s a very good question, Rattie. I try to train seven days a week but my current lifestyle means that sometimes I don’t get to train as much I would like to. It’s good to have something to work towards.  I do hope to train for the marathon one day – hopefully next year!
Scottish Budgie: Which song or songs do you have on repeat on your ipod at the moment?
Rhydian: Currently I am listening to Rage Against the Machine…!  I have just downloaded the musical, Rags, which I haven’t heard before.

Amy: Who is the person that you look up to the most?
Rhydian: There are a few significant people in my life who I look up to but I’d have to say my friend and mentor Michael Barry is who I look up to - he taught me all I know about performing and stage craft. 

anngie: Wondering if there was a musical instrument that you wish you could play?
Rhydian: Yes, I wish I could play lots of musical instruments!  I’d love to learn the piano really well and the drums.

Lisa: My question is, if you hadn’t have got through the X-Factor, would you have gone back to rugby or would you have pursued a career in music, or something else altogether?
Rhydian: Even though rugby was a big part of my life, I decided when I was 18 that I wanted to pursue singing.  If I hadn’t got through the X-Factor, I would have gone back to opera school and aspired to be a top-class opera singer.
Fay: What is the thing you are enjoying most about your new lifestyle?
Rhydian: There are many things I am enjoying: the places I have visited and the people I am meeting have been amazing. For example, I am writing these answers in Iceland! I am also loving living in London. 
stephie: As a kid of the ‘80s…..were you a CBBC or a CITV kid, and subsequently what was your favourite TV programme when you were a child? 
Rhydian: CBBC was my favourite because I loved Grange Hill , The Really Wild Show and,  of course, my favourite programme, Neighbours (in the days of Madge & Helen)!

mjfeather: If you could be someone from history for a day, who would it be and why?
Rhydian: It would be amazing go back to the time of Jesus just so I could have met him!

brummiebabe: I just wondered whether or not you have a sweet tooth and if so what is your favourite pudding or do you tend to like savoury food? Are you a chocoholic and if so what chocolate do you like?
Rhydian: I do have a sweet tooth.  My favourite chocolate would have to be Lindt and Charbonnel et Walker. My craving for Diet Coke never ends.
bastinado: Will you ever release a song in Welsh?
Rhydian: I would love to release a song in Welsh – it is my favourite language to sing in! If the opportunity arose, I would love to record a whole album in Welsh.

The new album will hit the shelves on 24th November and you can pre-order your copy right HERE

Make sure you keep checking Rhydian’s site over the coming weeks for the album artwork, tracklistings and much more!

Get ready to be blown away - ‘Rhydian’ the album is coming!

We can exclusively reveal that next week he will be jetting off to Iceland to shoot the video for the lead track from his debut. More details to follow, please stand by…

It’s not too late to ask him your question, here’s your link to do so. Meanwhile, here are his responses to the latest questions…

emilythomms: I recently auditioned for a new musical, A song for Europe. The writers said they had asked you to consider playing the male lead, is this true?
Rhydian: Hello Emily. Erm, if I’m honest, I don’t remember if they did or not. I get asked to do quite a lot of new musicals. If I had the time I would love to say yes to all of the offers but unfortunately I’m a little busy this year. I hope they gave you a good part though!

Sara-Jane: Would you like to play the part of Dr Who?
Rhydian: Hi Sara-Jane. I would love to do some acting one day so I never say never. I would be honoured if one day they would ask me, but I can’t see that happening anytime soon. I could make a good Darlek though, don’t you think!!?

Fay: I would love to know what you are most looking forward to in the immediate future?
Rhydian: Heya Fay. There is so much to look forward to with my career but on a more recreational side, I can’t wait to eat at the Fat Duck restaurant in Maidenhead!

Oprah Noodlemantra: What are your favourite films and do you have any favourite actors?
Rhydian: My favourite films are usually ones that make me laugh. Any Ben Stiller film I absolutely love, especially Meet the Fockers and There’s Something About Mary.

jazzy: If you could choose an actor to play you in a film of your life so far who would it be and why?
Rhydian: Hi jazzy, that’s an interesting question. Do you have any suggestions? I’m going to have to pass on that one I’m afraid.

EmmaLovesRhydian: What advice would you give to someone like me who is being bullied?
Rhydian: Dearest Emma you are loved and always will be loved. One day you will realise this amazing reality. Although bullies are currently making your life hard, know this, your future is a lot brighter than their sorry insecure lives. One day these bullies will have to pay for their actions, but you don’t have to be a part of that. For now, however difficult it may seem, be humble, never feel the need to avenge them and take heart and confidence that one day you will be the victor. Much love. x

Abigail: If there was one special power you could have, what would it be and why?
Rhydian: Dear Abigail, I would love to be able to fly. There are many reasons for this but the main one is to avoid queuing at airports!! (I hate airports!!)

Kymmie: Rhydian, what are your thoughts on angels and the afterlife? I know your spiritual and I would love too know your views.
Rhydian: Hey Kimmie, I believe in angels and I do believe in heaven. I don’t think this world purely came about as a scientific accident. I think there is a deeper meaning to life and the thought of heaven kinda excites me. One day I could be an angel which would fullfill my desire to fly…No airport queuing! He-he-he! Perfect!

LilacRose: What is your best way of relaxation these days?
Rhydian: Hiya LilacRose, I love having a full body massage after a gym session. I love sports massage. I usually have one every day. I’m very lucky.

Sophie Langan: Which rugby player do you most look up to?
Rhydian: Hey Sophie! What a great question… Any of the Welsh team!! I also love Keith Wood and Jason Robinson.

Not only is he putting the finishing touches to his debut album, but he has a selection of exclusive shows to prepare for as well.

He’s also become quite a figurehead in his homeland of Wales and at the moment, he is the front runner in a poll to discover who’s the face of Cardiff!

Cardiff’s Queens Arcade is currently being refurbished and will commission a local artist to produce a photo-mosaic of the city’s most popular personality as voted for online.

Rhydian is currently in the lead and if you’d like to lend him your support, here’s where you can vote.

10th October – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 60th Birthday Party, Radio 2
29th October – Celebrate Success, The Prince’s Trust In Wales, City Hall, Cardiff

Rhydian will be taking to the stage alongside the Welsh Association of Male Choirs, accompanist Brian Davies, organist David Geoffrey Thomas, soprano Rebecca Evans, presenter Mike Doyle, Roy Noble and Steffan Hughes. Alun John OBE is the conductor.

There will be a massive muster of military, ex-service, veterans associations, civilian and royal British Legion standards and special guest stars.

Tickets start at £5 and are available from St David’s Hall.

So far, we can reveal that the will be performing on the following shows:

22nd November – The X-Factor, ITV
24th December – Charlotte Church Show, Channel 4

Many more details to follow, so please stand by…

If you’ve yet to ask him anything, here’s your link to do so.

Rhydnut: What would your mum tell you is your biggest fault?
Rhydian: Hi Rhydnut! My mum would say that my biggest fault is impatience with the many things I would like to achieve.

Flyingfish: Do you sing when taking a shower?
Rhydian: I get asked this question a lot but the answer is no, I don’t sing in the shower! I usually sing for 3-4 hours a day so I like to give it a break when I’m taking a shower! Take care Flyingfish!

Piginclover: Can you tell us what your favourite musical is - and then bearing in mind that we may not have heard of it (!) - what’s your favourite ‘popular’ musical?
Rhydian: Now then, I love this question! It tends to change monthly but currently my favourite musical is The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown. I also love The Light in The Piazza which is running on Broadway. This was written by Adam Guettel, (Richard Rogers’ grandson). I love most musical theatre in truth. From the well known shows I adore Carousel, West Side Story, Les Mis and of course…Phantom! Much love x

Kitten31: What / who inspired you to become a singer?
Rhydian: Hiya Kitten! When I was a boy soprano it was my mum who inspired me but what really inspired me was the opera, The Pearl Fishers by Bizet. It moved me to tears when I was 13 and from that tender age I always dreamed of being a professional singer.

Sophie Langan: Which politicians do you most admire and why?
Rhydian: Hi Sophie! I like people who act with wisdom and integrity. With respect, politicians rarely do! I don’t really know which ones to trust. If you’re asking for my favourite personality though, it would have to be Boris!

Sally:  If you were throwing a dinner party for five guests, alive or dead, who would you invite and what would you cook?
Rhydian: Sally, great question! Umm, My Nain (gran) and Aunty Lou because they are the funniest double act alive! Christina Aguilera, Stephen Fry, Simon Cowell and Mozart! I’d cook them sushi and teppanyaki because my family have never tried Japanese food and nor has Mozart I would imagine.

LINDSY: Do you have any plans to record ‘Nessun Dorma’?
Rhydian: Hey Lindsy, I love the aria but alas, it’s a bit on the high side. It’s a tenor aria and I’m a baritone. I could just about do it, but I don’t think it would warrant a recording. I dunno, maybe just for you… watch this space! x

thatwyliegirl: What’s your favourite animal and colour??
Rhydian: My favourite animal is a baby gorilla. In black preferably!

brummiebabe: Do you have a favourite country that you’ve visited?
Rhydian: Hi brummiebabe! There are so many wonderful countries in this world that I have already visited so it’s hard to single out one in particular. I love Ireland, beautiful country with beautiful warm people that’s not too far away to visit. I love southern Africa too.

Pepper: Is there a dream career path or do you live for the moment?
Rhydian: Good question this Pepper. I’m enjoying everything that’s happening so far and living for each new day. I would like to record a few albums if I can and then appear in a new hit musical here and in the US. I would love to travel around the world with my singing. I would love to do film.

If you’ve got something you’d love to ask the man, this is your chance. Simply head on over to the forum and post your questions in this thread.

The event is hosted by John Barrowman, who will introduce Rhydian as well as the likes of Idina Menzel, Duncan James, Lee Mead, Joss Stone and Hayley Westenra.

They will be backed by a 70-piece BBC Concert Orchestra and a 100 voice chorus as they perform songs from some of Lloyd Webber’s best loved musicals like Joseph, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Cats, Phantom of the Opera and many more. 

The whole affair will be topped off with a stunning fireworks finale and will be broadcast on Radio 2 later in the year.