Frank Sinatra

Francis Albert Sinatra, born on December 12, 1915, and passing away on May 14, 1998, was an American singer and actor, widely known by the monikers “Chairman of the Board” and “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” He stands as one of the most celebrated entertainers of the mid-20th century and is recognized among the world’s best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million record sales.

Hailing from Hoboken, New Jersey, Sinatra embarked on his musical journey during the swing era, drawing inspiration from the easy-listening vocal style of Bing Crosby. His solo career took flight in 1943 when he signed with Columbia Records, quickly becoming the idol of the “bobby soxers.” The debut album, “The Voice of Frank Sinatra,” marked the beginning of his solo success. Transitioning to Capitol Records, he released several critically acclaimed albums before founding his own label, Reprise Records, in 1960.

Sinatra’s career highlights include the 1965 retrospective album “September of My Years” and the Emmy-winning TV special “Frank Sinatra: A Man and His Music.” Notable collaborations, such as the album with Tom Jobim and the one with Duke Ellington, further solidified his musical legacy. Although he officially retired in 1971 with the release of “My Way,” Sinatra returned two years later, recording albums and delivering the iconic “New York, New York” in 1980.

In addition to his musical prowess, Sinatra excelled as a film actor, earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in “From Here to Eternity” (1953). His filmography includes notable roles in “The Man with the Golden Arm” (1955), “The Manchurian Candidate” (1962), and award-winning performances in musicals like “On the Town” (1949) and “Guys and Dolls” (1955). He received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award in 1971.

Sinatra’s contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1985) and the Congressional Gold Medal (1997). His influence extended to the music industry, earning eleven Grammy Awards, including special recognitions like the Trustees Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Time magazine listed him among the 20th century’s 100 most influential people, and he is often hailed as “the greatest singer of the 20th century” by critics like Robert Christgau, securing his enduring status as an iconic figure.