In much the same way that
JosT Gonzßlez hails from Sweden and not Spain,
Paolo Nutini is not a smooth Italian pop star, but rather a soul-influenced adult alternative songwriter from Paisley, Scotland. Raised in a music-loving family, he grew up listening to a range of folk, opera, jazz, and his father's R&B favorites. Shortly after discovering homegrown folkies like
John Martyn, the teenaged
Nutini left school to focus on his own musical development, eventually moving from Paisley to London at age 16 and garnering attention via local gigs. He inked a deal with the British arm of Atlantic Records two years later, just several weeks after his 18th birthday.
Working with
Coldplay and
Badly Drawn Boy producer
Ken Nelson,
Nutini generated an impressive amount of buzz before his first single, "Last Request," was released in the early summer of 2006. He appeared at special Atlantic Records showcases at Carnegie Hall and the Montreux Jazz Festival, as well as showcase sets opening for
the Rolling Stones and
Paul Weller.
Nutini's debut album,
These Streets, was ultimately released in July 2006 alongside his second single, "Jenny Don't Be Hasty." The album fared quite well in the U.K., where it climbed to double-platinum status and sent four singles into the Top 40. Accordingly, an American release followed in January 2007.
For
Paolo Nutini's second album, the songwriter took a more active role in the production, partnering with
Ethan Johns but helming much of the material himself. The resulting record,
Sunny Side Up, appeared in June 2009, featuring increased contributions from
Nutini's backing band and a bright, sprightly disposition. ~ Stewart Mason, All Music Guide