Running to the Noise, Episode 14

Limmie Pulliam made his debuts at Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera at the age of 47, an improbable achievement for a man who left the opera world in his early 20s. Disheartened by an industry that prioritized image over talent, Pulliam spent years working as a debt collector and security guard—rarely singing at all.

In this episode, Oberlin College President Carmen Twillie Ambar speaks with the dramatic tenor about his inspiring return to music, including the serendipitous moment in 2007 that reignited his career. From Pulliam’s transformative years at Oberlin Conservatory, where he studied under legendary voice professor Richard Miller, to his triumphant performance at Carnegie Hall with the Oberlin Orchestra, his story is one of resilience, faith, and reclaiming a voice that was meant to be heard.

What We Cover in this Episode

• The Early Years: How Pulliam’s gospel roots and middle school choir teacher uncovered his gift for singing.

• Oberlin Conservatory and Richard Miller: The role Oberlin played in shaping Pulliam’s artistry and the impact of Miller’s mentorship.

• Overcoming Industry Bias: The challenges Pulliam faced as a young tenor and how rejection nearly silenced his voice.

• A Career Reignited: The surprising 2007 moment that brought Pulliam back to music after years away from the stage.

• From Carnegie Hall to Omar: Pulliam’s powerful performances, including his recent collaboration on the Pulitzer Prize-winning opera by Oberlin alumna Rhiannon Giddens.

• Lessons in Resilience: Why Pulliam believes setbacks are opportunities to grow and how he inspires audiences with every performance.