Céline Dion’s live performance of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”—featured on her All The Way… A Decade of Song & Video DVD—is a masterclass in emotional delivery and vocal control. Filmed in a dimly lit, intimate setting, the stage is awash in soft blue and violet hues that perfectly match the gentle, reflective tone of the Roberta Flack classic. From the very first note, Céline captures the audience with a breathtaking stillness, her voice floating like a whisper that gradually swells with heartfelt emotion.
Dressed in an elegant Maroon gown, Dion stands almost motionless, letting the simplicity of the arrangement speak for itself. A soft spotlight frames her as the orchestra delicately builds behind her—piano, strings, and subtle percussion setting a tender, slow-burning pace. Every word she sings feels personal, as if she’s reliving the memory the lyrics describe. Her eyes often close, lost in the emotion, and at times she glances upward as if drawing from something deeply spiritual.
The vocal performance is flawless—Céline’s signature vibrato and effortless phrasing elevate the song’s already powerful lyrics: “The first time ever I saw your face, I thought the sun rose in your eyes.” She holds certain notes just long enough to send chills, showing restraint in the verses and building to a soft crescendo in the chorus. It’s not showy, but deeply soulful—an artist fully immersed in the moment.
As the final note lingers in the air, there’s a pause—then the audience erupts into applause, many visibly moved. This version of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is not just a cover; it’s a quiet triumph. A lesser-known performance perhaps, but one that shines as one of Céline Dion’s most emotionally resonant live renditions. A must-see moment for fans and lovers of timeless ballads alike.