Frank Sinatra, or Ol’ Blue Eyes, long acclaimed as the world’s greatest performer, lived a life of legacy and luxury. From classic hit songs such as “You make me feel so young” and “New York, New York,” to timeless films including From Here to Eternity and Who Framed Roger Rabbit? we all know Sinatra one way or another. May 14th marks the fifteenth anniversary of his passing.
In the 1930’s, Sinatra got his first break when he joined an amateur band called ‘The Hoboken Four. An NBC radio broadcaster realized how much potential he had. Sinatra was invited to sing during an amateur hour on the radio. More and more people heard the irresistible sing, and it was not long before Sinatra was a professional singer.
From 1948 to 1950 Sinatra’s career was at the worst it had ever been. He had not performed in two years. In January of 1950 Sinatra wanted to get back up on his feet and not give up. Despite the plummeting of fans and slight voice change, Sinatra continued to do what he loved. He took the small part of Maggio in the Hollywood blockbuster film From Here to Eternity. It wasn’t a starring role, but he earned a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for it. Frankie was back!
In the mid-sixties Sinatra, joined with Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., began a musical-comedy group called The Rat Pack and went on to sing more incredible hits such as, We Open In Venice and a re-make of I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter. This whole group changed Sinatra’s career for the better.
Eventually their own careers toke off in different paths. New people were joining and leaving the Rat Pack. With all the drama in the group, Sinatra packed his bags and didn’t look back. His solo career went back on track and Ol’ Blue Eyes was looking at his glass half-full once again.
Frankie announced his retirement in1971, which didn’t last long. He came out of retirement continuing his passion for music. Frank Sinatra released a new album and started to perform once again on stage in Las Vegas, NV. He started to travel performing in a number of popular towns. He was featured in late-night shows and even performed with country/folk singer John Denver.
In the early spring of 1997 Sinatra suffered a traumatic heart attack and did not recover well. On May 14th, 1998 Sinatra stopped over a year of fighting and staying strong. He died at the age of 82.
Sinatra’s story can teach us a lesson to never give up on our dreams no matter what occurs. That we can stay strong in the toughest of times. This legends example is something we can all follow.