Regrets, he had a few but then again too few to mention. Memorable lyrics that are reminders of the timeless quality of Frank Sinatra’s Music and one imagines also of the lifestyle he lived. The great man’s 100th birthday (had he still been alive) falls this weekend, December 12th to be precise. He may no longer be with us in body, but his spirit endures and his distinctive voice continues to attract fans across the globe into the 21st century.
Celebrations in Hoboken
Born in Hoboken, New Jersey in 1915, the four-time married crooner became one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
The Hoboken Historical Museum's latest exhibition honours their favourite son. Visitors will be able to view artefacts and interactive displays relating to his time there, up until July 2016. They will also receive a map indicating places of local interest concerning Sinatra, with his birthplace on Monroe Street no doubt being of particular interest to fans.
For those intent on celebrating the anniversary in style, Hoboken are also holding an official Frank Sinatra 100th birthday party in his honour on the landmark date.
Part of the famous ‘Rat Pack’
Along with the iconic figures of Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr and Peter Lawford (among others) he became synonymous with the ‘Rat Pack’ in the 60s.
They starred together in several films and were infamous for their love of the high life.
Record sales are commonly held up as a barometer to gauge a musical celebrity’s success or otherwise. Sinatra ticks all the boxes on that front with estimated sales exceeding 150 million units worldwide. Recognition on the awards’ front was also favourable, with no less than eleven Grammy Awards backing his undoubted musical talent.
Sinatra on the silver screen
His on screen charisma was also utilised whenever possible, although exceptional performances were not as commonplace as behind the microphone where he simply dazzled his audience.
Yet there were notable exceptions, especially in the classic and critically acclaimed 1953 Film “From Here to Eternity”.
Sinatra’s eye-catching portrayal of Private Angelo Maggio won him praise and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The plaudits were also forthcoming for his parts in "The Manchurian Candidate", "Ocean's 11" (pre- George Clooney's popular re-make) and "Von Ryan’s Express".
Successful musicals
His musical appearances on the silver screen in the late 1940s and 50s catered nicely to his key talents. A string of successes in "On The Town", "Guys and Dolls", "High Society" and "Pal Joey" made him a popular star at the box office.
Mafia rumours
His Italian background and connections commonly led to references to alleged Mafia involvement during his lifetime. Consequently, the rumours abounded about strong-arm tactics being employed in his name whenever the circumstances warranted it.
Four marriages
A string of beautiful women were often seen in his presence and his four marriages made the headlines, particularly his alliances with fellow film stars Ava Gardner and Mia Farrow.
Most fans will undoubtedly refer to his singing talents when seeking to separate Sinatra from his contemporaries though. “My Way” became one of his signature tunes, with a dutiful nod to “Strangers in the Night” and the unforgettable “New York, New York”. In truth there are too many tracks to mention that benefited from his abilities up until his death in 1998.
Many artists have tried to imitate his laid-back style and warming tones in recent years, the likes of Michael Buble and Harry Connick, Jr springing instantly to mind to name but two. Yet none can truly capture the essence of Sinatra and that is why he will surely continue to attract new followers for many years to come. The man, the music and the memories.
