Frankie Laine biography
In the world of popular music, yesterday's idol is very often tomorrow's
forgotten name. Only a handful of performers have demonstrated the lasting
appeal it takes to weather the onslaught of fads and changing trends over the years,
and Frankie Laine is a classic example. His impeccable musicianship and taste
have kept him an international favorite for over four decades.
Ever since his recording of "That's My Desire" burst onto the
scene like a musical firework in 1947, praise has poured in from all corners,
from young and old alike, for this gifted and versatile artist for top
nightclub engagements, both here and in Europe. Today, 21 Gold records later,
Frankie Laine has become a musical tradition.
In 1953, Laine's stirring rendition of "I Believe" topped the
British charts and stayed number one for eighteen weeks, an unbeaten
performance that even the Beatles never matched. His renown continued to grow
as he went to
Laine's magical appeal, however, far transcends mere nostalgia. His
recording of "You Gave Me a Mountain," a song written especially for
Laine by his good friend, Marty Robbins, went gold in the early 1970's a time
by which many of his contemporaries had long since quieted down. Laine
continues to record exciting new material while maintaining a healthy respect
for the songs, like "Mule Train," "That Lucky Old Sun,"
"I Believe," and "Jezebel," which all his longtime admirers
know by heart. Many of these tunes were collected into an album entitled:"
The World of Frankie Laine," that toped the charts in
His hit records were followed by starring roles in several motion
pictures, guest appearance on numerous major radio and television shows, and his
own television variety program on CBS. Laine became the first and most
successful of the singers to be identified with title songs.
He has performed the title songs for seven motion pictures, including
Mel Brooks Western farce, "Blazing Saddles." Laine's featured
recording of "Rawhide" has become one of the most popular theme songs
of all time.
After recovering from a second bypass surgery in 1990, Laine began work
on his autobiography which he mischievously called, "That Lucky Old
Sun." The book was published in 1993 and has met with great success. His
latest album, "Wheels of Dreams" was released in 1998.
Frankie Laine continues to receive accolades from both professional and
lay organizations for his contributions to the entertainment industry and for
his humanitarian works, which are many.
On June 12, 1996, Laine was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award
at the 27th Annual Songwriter's Hall of Fame awards at a ceremony at the New
York Sheraton.
Frankie Laine continues his legendary career. His extraordinary musical
talent reaches and touches many thousands, both in his always-popular
recordings and in his sold out concerts, as well as with his generous outreach
to the community and to children.
Women's International Center is indeed privileged to welcome Frankie
Laine to the Living Legacy Awards and to present him with the Living Legend
Award 2000. Thank you for a lifetime
of memories, Frankie.