Imagine being 25 and having just recorded with Bobby Rydell. All thanks to my manager and friend, Joey M of course. After producing the records with Bobby, I jokingly said to Joe, "wouldn't it be cool to record with, Frankie?" Well he took me serious, got some ideas in his head, next thing I know, I get a phone call saying we're going to California! I've always loved the music of the 50's and 60's. Rydell and Avalon are staples when it comes to that era, so to be able to say I have worked with BOTH of them...that was the inspiration for this collaboration.
Frankie Avalon isn't like many other artists.
He's not only a legend in the music business, but the man is a bonafide movie star. It was definitely a task for me to be able to place myself on the same playing ground as him. While it was intimidating throughout the whole process, he never treated me like I was underneath him. From the time he agreed to work with me, to the song selection, video layout, etc., Frankie Avalon and Tommy Cono were of the same caliper. The most memorable moment for me throughout this whole project was when we were walking into the recording studio and Frankie looked at me saying, "I haven't bene in the studio in 45 years."
Anyone that has followed me, listening to the music that I not only recorded, but recreated, knows that most of my recent work has almost a latin flair to it. It's all danceable stuff.
These recordings with Frankie Avalon are no different. The first song we recorded, "Beauty School Dropout" has a very intense rock theme. There are no similarities between the original 'waltz' and the new version other th
an the voice of Avalon and the lyrics of course. The second song we put together is from a great movie, sharing the name of the song, starring Frankie and Annette Funicello, "Beach Blanket Bingo." That tune has been redone to mimic a Regge sound. It was the coolest thing to see Frankie Avalon recording this with me. He showed such excitement in both recreations of his songs.
Frankie has been described as the, "Frank Sinatra" of his time. I couldn't agree more with that. His crooning style was able to bring a sense of tradition and history to both tunes. While I have versatile vocal capabilities, I tried to match that of a rocker, or pop artist, to contrast his smooth sound yet complement the records. It was interesting to see the old versus the new with these great songs.
All I can say is, Thanks to Joey, I have made two more friends in this crazy business. Unfortunately we lost one in 2022, but I can't begin to tell you how excited I am to share this once in a lifetime journey with everyone. I can assure you, there will be more coming out with myself and Frankie Avalon. I can also assure you, there will be many other artists that I'll not only be sharing the stage with, but I will be sharing a studio with, bringing you all some great music.
