Oh, what a story.
Frankie Valli, who came to fame in 1962 as lead singer of the Four Seasons, remains just as hot five decades later in the 21st century. Thanks to the success of Tony-winning musical "Jersey Boys," which chronicles the life and times of Valli and his legendary group, classic songs like "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Walk Like a Man," "Rag Doll" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" are all the rage again.
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Seasons' first hit "Sherry," Valli toured England, Australia and New Zealand in 2012, in addition to keeping up his busy schedule in the U.S. On Friday night, Jan. 24, Valli and the Four Seasons will bring their show to the Tivoli Theatre.
Don't say that Valli is back. The truth is, he never went away. Sure, the majority of the 71 chart hits of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons (including 40 in the Top 40, 19 in the Top 10 and eight No. 1s) came during the 1960s, but the music didn't just disappear. He has toured almost continuously since 1962, and as many as 200 artists have done covers of "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," from Nancy Wilson's jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill's hip-hop makeover.
If you go
› What: Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons› Where: Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad St.› When: 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24› Admission: $79.50-$175› For more information: 423-757-5580
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons influenced many great recording artists. According to Barry Gibb, "Frankie Valli, to me, has become one of the hallmark voices of our generation. From the deepest emotions of his real voice to the power of his falsetto, he created a style that we all still strive to emulate."
From Billy Joel: "I wrote 'Uptown Girl' as the flip side to the story of 'Rag Doll.' I always loved that record."
And from Brian Wilson: "In the early '60s, the Four Seasons were my favorite group. I thought they were fantastic. The voice blend was fantastic. The competition helped me to get cracking. It inspired me, because they made good music. I went to the piano thinking I could top their music."
For as far into the future as anyone can see, "Jersey Boys" will introduce the music of Frankie Valli to new generations. But the man himself shows no signs of slowing down. For as long as he wants to sing, people will want to listen.