Frankie Laine
Frankie Laine, born Francesco Paolo LoVecchio on March 30, 1913, in Chicago, Illinois, was a celebrated American singer and songwriter. Known for his powerful voice, Laine's career spanned nearly 75 years. He was the eldest of eight children born to Sicilian immigrants who had settled in Chicago's Little Italy. His father, who worked as a barber, counted among his clients the infamous gangster Al Capone.
Laine's musical journey began in a church choir, and by the age of 15, he was performing at the Merry Garden Ballroom in Chicago. He supported himself through various jobs, including as a car salesman and machinist, while also singing at a local radio station. His stage name, Frankie Laine, was adopted after a suggestion from a radio program director.
In the early 1930s, Laine participated in marathon dance contests, setting a record in Atlantic City. He later moved to Los Angeles, where he was discovered by Hoagy Carmichael while performing at the Billy Berg Club. This led to his introduction of the song "That's My Desire," which became one of his signature hits.
Laine's career flourished in the late 1940s and 1950s with hits like "Mule Train," "Jezebel," and "I Believe." He was known for his versatility, singing in genres ranging from jazz and pop to gospel and country. He also sang theme songs for Western films and TV shows, including the popular series "Rawhide."
In 1950, Laine married actress Nan Grey and raised her two children. He was involved in social activism, notably raising funds to buy shoes for underprivileged children. Despite undergoing heart surgery, Laine continued to perform into his later years. He passed away on February 6, 2007, in San Diego, California, leaving behind a legacy as "America's Number One Song Stylist."
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