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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZVAUGHAN, Frankie(b Frank Abelson, 3 February 1928, Liverpool; d 17 September 1999) UK pop singer. Attended Leeds College of Art, intending to teach, and was spotted in a college revue by BBC producer Barney Colehan. His first pro job in variety at the Kingston Empire made an impression '50. He was advised by veteran music hall star Hetty King; he began recording '53 and from '54-68 had chart entries every year except one, 29 altogether including no. ones 'Garden Of Eden' and 'Tower Of Strength'; also no. 2 'Green Door' '56 (cover of USA no. 1 by disc jockey Jim Lowe). He had a USA chart entry '58 with 'Judy' (no. 22). Film Those Dangerous Years '57 was first of four; another was Let's Make Love '60 with Marilyn Monroe and Yves Montand. LP Frankie Vaughan Live At The London Palladium '59 included the Kaye Sisters and the King Brothers; also had two top 10 UK entries with the Kayes. His famous theme 'Give Me The Moonlight', song from '18 by Albert Von Tilzer and Lew Brown, brought him the nickname Mr. Moonlight. He was active through '70s in concert and cabaret, and was a suprise choice '85 to replace James Laurenson in the London cast of 42nd Street. He was a consistent worker with youth projects; the proceeds of 'Green Door' and much else went to the National Association Of Boys Clubs; awarded OBE '65. |