A number of talented artists were with me at Hollywood High School back in the 1970’s. Aprile Milo went on to enjoy the most success. Back in the day, she was known as April, but it was clear she was going to have a major career in opera. I was pleased to help lead the fund-raising efforts required to stage “Hello Dolly,” with April in the title role.
In 1975, the music scene in Hollywood was primed for the punk rock and heavy metal explosion that was only a few months away. Although the TV industry was busy marketing 50’s nostalgia, there was a little-remembered movement that looked back to the 1930’s and 40’s for its inspiration.
People liked to joke that 70’s teenage crooners were out of step with the times, but the truth had more to do with Money, the great purpose for which all of Hollywood owes its existence. It’s a lot cheaper to work with a four or five-member rock band than it is to take a full orchestra on the road!
Here is a picture of me from June 6, 1975, on stage in Hollywood, in the middle of a medley of songs that included “Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams,” “White Christmas,” “Cold Turkey,” and “Accentuate the Positive.” Sadly, no audio exists from this notable event.
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