Frankie Valli
Frankie Valli
Full Name and Common Aliases
Frankie Valli is the birth name of Francesco Stephen Castelluccio. He was also known as "The Four Seasons' Frontman" due to his tenure as lead vocalist for the iconic American rock band.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on May 3, 1934, in Newark, New Jersey, Frankie Valli passed away on June 3, 2023, at the age of 89.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Valli was an American singer, songwriter, actor, and dancer. His music career spanned over four decades, with his primary focus being as a solo artist and lead vocalist for The Four Seasons.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a musical family, Valli began singing at a young age, performing in local talent shows and bars around Newark. He was raised by Italian-American parents and grew up during the Great Depression era. After dropping out of school in the seventh grade to help support his family, Valli joined various doo-wop groups, eventually forming The Four Lovers with his friends.
Major Accomplishments
As a member and lead vocalist for The Four Seasons, Frankie Valli achieved numerous chart-topping hits, including:
"Sherry" (1962) - the band's first No. 1 single
"Big Girls Don't Cry" (1962) - their second consecutive No. 1 hit
"Walk Like a Man" (1963)
"Candy Girl" (1964)
In addition to his work with The Four Seasons, Valli also had success as a solo artist with hits like:
"Can't Take My Eyes Off You" (1967)
"Working My Way Back to You/Follow You" (1980) - a duet with The Four Seasons
Valli's music career has earned him numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works by Frankie Valli include:
"The Jersey Boys" - an autobiography-inspired musical about The Four Seasons' history
"Walk Like a Man: My Life as a Lovers, Husband, Father, Son, Brother, and Fanatic" - his memoir
Impact and Legacy
Frankie Valli's impact on the music industry is undeniable. His distinctive falsetto voice and energetic stage presence have influenced countless musicians across genres. As a solo artist and lead vocalist for The Four Seasons, he helped shape the sound of early rock 'n' roll.
The Four Seasons' music has also been featured in various films, including the Academy Award-winning "Jersey Boys" (2014), which tells the story of their rise to fame and struggles with fame's darker side. Valli's own life was portrayed by actor Bob Brydon in the film adaptation of his autobiography.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Frankie Valli is widely quoted for his music, but also for his charismatic stage presence and endearing personality. His legacy extends beyond his hit songs to the impact he had on the music industry as a whole. As one of the most iconic voices in rock 'n' roll history, Frankie Valli will continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans around the world.
Quotes by Frankie Valli
I always believed a singer should be able to sing any kind of song. If I wanted to sing a Cole Porter song, I should be able to do that. Or 'Sherry,' I should be able to do that. Or a Dylan song.
I do belong to Jersey. There's no doubt about that in my mind. They have been so loyal and so good to me; how could I possibly belong any place else?
I cherish the memory of being a friend of Frank Sinatra on a friendship level to the point where we really hung out. We worked in Vegas, we'd talk on the phone, and if I wasn't doing anything, I'd fly out, and I spent time in Palm Springs at his house - on a level the way friends would be, not with a whole crowd of people.
I do belong to Jersey. There’s no doubt about that in my mind. They have been so loyal and so good to me, how could I possibly belong any place else?
I’m not doing contemporary songs unless something comes along that really knocks my socks off.
