Englebert Humperdink talked about life, his fans, a new album and the importance of humility during an appearance on American television.
The legendary Leicestershire singer, who divides his time between Great Glen and Los Angeles, was interviewed in his California home by America's Got Talent Finalist – and ardent fan – Mauricio Herrera.
Enge, was introduced as "international superstar – the magnificent, one and only King of Romance!".
Sitting in an armchair, surrounded by walls decorated with some of his 80-plus Gold and Platinum discs, the 78-year-old appeared slightly nervous – scared even – confronted with the colourful, but sincere, Cost Rican singer's brazen adulation.
But he soon settled down to discuss his career – and passionate fans.
Herrera asked him: "Do you have an idea of the loyal fan base that you have.
"Can you measure it, every time you go out there?
"You have the most loyal fans in the world. You perform around the world and everywhere you play is sold out.
"How do you feel about that?"
To which Enge replied: "My fans are the people I call my cheerleaders, the spark plugs of my success.
"They are out there and sort of ignite everybody around them.
"I think that's an important issue when you have a following If you can get those people in your audience, they light the fire for you, and they light up your life."
He elaborated: "If someone stops moving then they nudge them, that's what fans are for and that's what they do.
"My fans are very militant. If anyone says something derogatory about me, God forbid.
"That's why I love my fans, they really protect and love and support me, and they have done for all these many years, since 1967."
Asked why he thinks his music has transcended "generation after generation", Enge said: "I'm very happy with the kind of life I've had, and the success that I've had, I've worked hard for it mind you."
Enge went on to talk about his new album, Englebert Calling, which was released on September 30.
He said: "Things are going well because I've got a brand new CD out, a duet CD, which I've never done before.
"I've recorded about 80 albums, including compilation albums.
"But this one is very unique, because it's all duets and with amazing people like Elton John, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson and Gene Simmons from Kiss – and Johnny Mathis, one of my favourite singers of all time."
He added: "It was two years – a labour of love."
A gushing Herrera then put it to him: "How does it feel to have changed so many people's lives? To have touched millions of people's lives around the world and changed their worlds – for good?"
"That's a difficult question," said Enge. "Me, I just walk on stage and do the best I can with the tools I've got, I really do.
"I think each performance I do is as good as the last.
"I try to be as good every time. I've never cut my audiences short.
"Even when I have a bad throat, I will struggle through it.
"I get through the show and give them the best that I can."
Finally, a bemused Enge was asked to critique Herrera's renditions of Costa Rican star Ricky Martin's hit Livin' la Vida Loca, and the Bee Gee's Stayin' Alive – America's Got Talent-style.
Enge said: "I want to hear your voice."
Herrera finished by singing Spanish Eyes, a 60s favourite among Enge fans, to his idol.
"Now that's got quality," was his assessment.
To watch the interview visit: www.leicestermercury.co.uk
