Avalon’s storied career began in the late 1950s, where he quickly became a household name with hits like “Venus” and “Why.” Throughout his journey, he was guided by the wisdom and support of industry greats like Al Martino and Nat King Cole. Reflecting on those formative years, Avalon shared, “Working with Tommy has brought back a flood of memories of my early days in the business. Just as Al and Nat took me under their wings, I feel a profound sense of responsibility and joy in mentoring Tommy.”
Frankie Avalon is perhaps best known to a younger generation as the Teen Angel in the hit musical “Grease,” where his performance of “Beauty School Dropout” became an iconic moment in film history. Revisiting this classic song in the studio with Tommy Cono has been a nostalgic experience for Avalon. “Recording ‘Beauty School Dropout’ with Tommy was like stepping back in time. It reminded me of the magic of ‘Grease’ and the joy of bringing that character to life,” Avalon said.
Tommy Cono, known as ‘The Voice of Tribute,’ has been making waves in the music world with his captivating tribute performances. He began his career at a young age and has since shared the stage with numerous legendary acts. His deep connection to 50s and 60s music, nurtured by his grandparents, has shaped his unique style and repertoire.
The partnership between Avalon and Cono was facilitated by mutual friend and Tommy’s manager, Joey M. of Joey M’s Golden Kids. Joey, recognizing the potential for a remarkable collaboration, introduced the two artists, leading to a creative synergy that has produced two timeless tracks.
“Beauty School Dropout” and “Beach Blanket Bingo” are more than just songs; they are a bridge between generations, showcasing Avalon’s enduring talent and Cono’s promising future. “Recording these songs with Frankie has been a dream come true,” said Cono. “His guidance and friendship mean the world to me, and I’m honored to be a part of this incredible journey.”
In addition to their studio work, Frankie Avalon and Tommy Cono will be performing together at the 20th Anniversary of the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s & Beyond Weekend on October 19th, 2024, at the Wildwoods Convention Center in Wildwood, NJ. Avalon will return to this iconic venue, where the weekend will be packed with events celebrating the golden era of music. This marks Cono’s third consecutive year at the event, where he will be hosting the show, which also features The Lettermen and The Shirelles. Tickets for this exciting weekend are available on Ticketmaster.
Moreover, Cono has recently joined forces with The Golden Boys, a legendary group that includes Avalon, Fabian, and the late Bobby Rydell. The Golden Boys were formed in the 1980s as a celebration of the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll, featuring three of the most beloved teen idols of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Fabian, known for hits like “Turn Me Loose” and “Tiger,” was discovered in his Philadelphia neighborhood and quickly rose to fame alongside Avalon and Rydell. The trio performed together for decades, delighting audiences with their timeless hits and undeniable charm.
Now, as The Golden Boys continue to honor their late friend Bobby Rydell, Tommy Cono has been brought into the fold, adding a new generation of talent to this iconic group. This collaboration has added another layer of connection and nostalgia, celebrating the rich musical heritage they all share.
Avalon’s return to the studio and his mentorship of Cono mark a significant chapter in both their careers. Fans can look forward to hearing these new recordings and witnessing the magic of their partnership live.
