The visitor stats don't lie: all of the folks who came by TSR in the early days looking for Bjork's Oceania video are apparently now trolling around for photos of baritone Nathan Gunn. Perhaps the sudden interest has been sparked by Tommasini's article in the NY Times today. But given the number of hits I've gotten on the Billy Budd pages here, here and here in the past week, you'd think the discovery of a decent-looking opera singer is equivalent to the second coming of Callas.
Here are some answers for all you Gunn Googlers. He's 33. Yes, he's added Billy Budd to his repertoire, and most recently performed it at San Francisco Opera. He does seem to be asked to take his shirt off a lot. He was on the cover of Opera News in September 2004. Since he has a lovely wife Julie (who is also his recital pianist) and 5 children, one can safely assume he is not gay. Yes, I really think he's not gay. There are no photos of "Nathan Gunn naked" that I'm aware of.
To be honest, I actually agree with Parterre Box's assessment (scroll down) of the Gunn ogling phenomenon. I just listened to his Wound-Dresser recording today (what a pain to find, but that's a post for another day) and he is singing quite well. There's a depth and fullness to his tone that I find appealing, and his production sounds natural and fluid. I'm looking forward to listening again tomorrow, which is a good sign.
But I also understand that some folks are just encountering Nathan for the first time. So, purely as a public service, I have scoured the web on your behalf to bring you the Wall o' Nathan. (You can click through to the full-size photos in the Album o' Nathan.) I hope you guys appreciate the sacrifices I make for the common good...
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Probably the best post ever. Thank you. I'm fairly certain Trrill.com's first post on opening day will reference this one!
Posted by: Mme. Grisi Pasta | Nov 15, 2004 at 04:29 PM
So you had to eclipse my Wall O'Albert! I cannot compete with those abs. Not fair.
Yes, I can vouch for the fact that Mr. Gunn does not give off any gay vibe whatsoever. Friendly guy, very boyish, and with an obviously high sperm count, as evidenced by his procreation skills. Oh yeah, and a nice voice too.
Posted by: Albert | Nov 16, 2004 at 08:23 AM
It's an hommage, my dear, not an upstaging! As Pete Cetera said so eloquently, you're my inspiration. And surely your glitter outshines even the gleam of spotlights bouncing off his greased-up torso.
Posted by: M. C- | Nov 16, 2004 at 08:32 AM
Your site is wonderful re Nathan Gunn. The photos of the Pearl Fishers and Billy Buddy - just stunning. Please keep me on your e-mail list. Thanks so much. Donald
Posted by: Donald Fitzgerald | Nov 17, 2004 at 01:37 PM
LOVE YOUR WITT AND PISSAZ. EXCELENT PICTURES, SORRY THEY DONT HAVE FULL CAPTION, THERE IS ANOTHER SINGER IN ONE OF THE BUDD PICTURES OF GUNN, WHICH IS ALSO A REAL HUNK. DESERVES A SEPARATE COMMENT.
KEEP ME POSTED.
THANK YOU!
DANIEL
Posted by: Daniel Fernandez | Nov 18, 2004 at 11:11 AM
I love Nathan Gunn!! The pictures are great!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Lian | Nov 24, 2004 at 05:14 PM
Are you reading Nathan's journal on his website? The guy is quiet funny!
Posted by: Mario fergula | Dec 05, 2005 at 09:43 PM
i have a photo that you do not have, it is my favorite, i will send it to you if you give me your e mail address.
Posted by: | Jun 20, 2008 at 06:56 PM
Really Nathan Gunn is looking cool in all the pics.I don't think he is gay.These all are just a rumours.
Posted by: Acai berry | Dec 07, 2009 at 08:27 PM
great photographs, thanks for the post and comments. P
Posted by: patrick- photographer brighton | Aug 10, 2010 at 06:54 AM
is nathan gay which would be a shame...so beautiful.
Posted by: ann | Nov 26, 2010 at 05:05 PM
He really is extremely fit and dynamic looking. I prefer him with the longer hair, too.
Posted by: Nina B | Dec 19, 2010 at 03:10 AM