80-year-old man with dementia lands record deal
80-year-old man with dementia lands record deal after ‘Carpool Karaoke’ video finds Internet fame
Ted McDermott – known as Teddy Mac, the Songaminute Man – instantly became a worldwide viral hit after videos posted by his son Simon of the pair singing got nearly 40 million views.
Now the former Butlin’s redcoat and holiday camp entertainer has released a cover of the Frank Sinatra hit ‘You Make Me Feel So Young’, his first single after scoring a deal with classical music company Decca Records.
Decca’s spokesperson Alexander Van Ingen has lauded the pensioner for his singing talent. “Teddy’s voice is truly remarkable for any singer, let alone one 80 years of age,” he said. “It’s a captivating sound, and full of character and experience.”
The octogenarian was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2013 but Simon soon discovered that singing helped his father deal with the disease.
While Mr McDermott, of Blackburn, sometimes has trouble recognising his son, he still recalls the words to many of his favourite songs.
Their videos have now raised over £114,000 (AU$193,000) for the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK.
They have also helped the family cope with his illness.
Simon said: “This is a dream come true not only for dad, but for the entire family. There have been some really tough days in the last few years – especially for mum. We threw an 80th birthday party last month and thought that would be his last time singing solo for people’ so it’s amazing to think he now has a single coming out!”
Read more at https://www.agedcare101.com.au/articles/80-year-old-man-dementia-lands-record-deal