In 2009, one of the all-time greatest reality show moments occurred on Britain’s Got Talent when a woman by the name of Susan Boyle walked on stage in front of an audience of 10 million.

The judges, including the infamous Simon Cowell, were brusque with her during the preliminary interview, but upon hearing the then unknown singer’s first note, they quickly changed their tune.

Since then, Boyle has gone on to sell over 25 million records worldwide and even holds the distinction of being the top-selling debut artist in UK history. Not bad considering her only previous performing experience was at karaoke bars and in church choirs!

Although we positively LOVE Boyle’s entire discography, we recently revisited what we think is one of her best performances ever.

In 2011, the singer released an album of eclectic covers called Someone to Watch Over Me. It featured standards like “Autumn Leaves,” but it also had more unlikely additions, like a haunting rendition of Tears for Fears’ “Mad World.”

Amongst the cluster of unusual songs is a moving cover of the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody.” It’s a tune that, we admit, is covered just a tad TOO frequently, but Boyle manages to put a completely new spin on the often heart-breaking song.

In an interview with US, the singer explains why she thinks her version reveals a whole new side to this classic tune. “I really like the different arrangement of this version,” Boyle says. “I’m sure people will see the name and think ‘Oh that again!’ But this one’s totally different and is quite surprising.”

Around the time of the record’s release, the then 50-year-old chanteuse released a live recording of “Unchained Melody,” with an entire orchestra backing her up to boot! The result is an absolutely chilling performance that, we agree, puts quite a surprising spin on the song.

The original version is decidedly melancholic, but Boyle has found a way to infuse her fiery, positive spirit into the music. Suddenly the lyrics hold a whole new meaning!

How fame has made Susan Boyle a “better person”

It’s amazing to think that, less than 10 years ago, Susan Boyle was living as an undiscovered talent in the small village of Blackburn in West Lothian, Scotland.

She had essentially been bullied out of school before she got the chance to receive high credentials, and was relegated mostly to her family home, taking care of her ailing mother in the years before her life-changing audition.

Since then, the Scot has amassed a reported $33 million fortune, but she hasn’t let that go to her head. In fact, she still lives in the very same ex-council house where she spent her childhood.

In an interview with Female First, Boyle explains why she has opted for simplicity over luxury. “It’s very important to me to retain a sense of normalcy and also keep in touch with my roots,” she explains.

When asked about how her stardom has affected her, Boyle admits that it has helped her “grow up.” “The fame has allowed me to become a better person.”

Geez, we wish there were more stars like her—this lady’s got talent AND class! To see her stirring rendition of “Unchained Melody” for yourself, be sure to watch the video below. We promise you’re going to put this tune on repeat!

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this cover. Are you a fan of Boyle’s rendition? What is your favorite song of hers? Are you surprised by her simple lifestyle?