Posted on: Tuesday, May 24, 2005
It's hana hou on 'Oprah' for boy from Wai'anae
By Catherine E. Toth
Advertiser Staff Writer
Paul Robins hasn't woken up from his wildest dream just yet.
Michelle Rothenberg Featuring 12-year-old Paul Robins 4 p.m. today KHON He will be singing the song "I Pray" — especially written by Carey for him — on today's "Oprah." The song will debut on WOW Gospel 2005 this fall, said his mother Laurie Robins.
"It was really exciting just to work with Mariah again and her backup singers," said Paul Robins. "(The song) is really inspirational. I think once it goes into the market, I think a lot of people will like it."
The homeschooled sixth-grader leaped into the national spotlight in February — on his 12th birthday — when his "wildest dream" was fulfilled by Winfrey. He got personal voice-coaching from Carey and the chance to perform live on "Oprah" in front of a worldwide audience.
After this experience — recording a single and being on two "Oprah" shows — Paul Robins has modified his career goals just a little.
"I still want to be a chef," he said. "But maybe just on the side."
Reach Catherine E. Toth at 535-8103 or ctoth@honoluluadvertiser.com.
The 12-year-old karaoke fan from Wai'anae who was surprised by Oprah Winfrey's crew in February, just wrapped up a recording session with his idol, Mariah Carey, in Los Angeles.
Paul Robins will make his second appearance on "Oprah" today.
'OPRAH'
