Ananova:

An NHS dentist has signed a £1m record deal after stunning executives with his operatic interpretations of pop songs.

Andrew Bain had spent a decade perfecting patients' smiles when he decided to make a last-ditch attempt for a career in music.

The 34-year-old tenor recorded a cover of Prince's Purple Rain in his bedroom and sent it to major music companies, reports the Daily Mail.

Simon Cowell's record company Sony BMG offered him a contract so quickly he still has to carry out dentist appointments for the next three months.

"Not only have I finally got a record deal, but they understand my eclectic taste in music. Who needs yet another version of Nessun Dorma?

"Opera really was the pop music of its day, so I feel that mixing this style with the pop songs of today is a natural progression despite what the critics might say," he said.

Mr Bain has been offered a four-album deal and has started recording pop covers of bands Snow Patrol, Abba and The Smiths for release in September.

Due to his day job he can only practise for an hour or two a day and have lessons once a fortnight.

Lancaster-born Mr Bain, who lives in Stockwell, South London, said: "I try and sing every day. Fortunately I have thick walls and understanding neighbours.

"I'm very grateful for my dentistry career. I don't think I'll leave it entirely behind although in what form that takes is hard to say. My friends will still be wanting free check-ups."