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1928
2018
MIAMI (AP) — Vic Damone, whose mellow baritone once earned praise from Frank Sinatra as "the best pipes in the business," has died in Florida at the age of 89, his daughter said.
Victoria Damone told The Associated Press in a phone interview Monday that her father died Sunday at a Miami Beach hospital from complications of a respiratory illness.
Damone's easy-listening romantic ballads brought him million-selling records and sustained a half-century career in recordings, movies and nightclub, concert and television appearances.
After winning a tie on the radio show "Arthur Godfrey's Talent Hunt," Damone's career began climbing. His hit singles included "Again," ''You're Breaking My Heart," ''My Heart Cries for You," ''On the Street Where You Live" and, in 1957, the title song of the Cary Grant film "An Affair to Remember."
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Damone's style as a lounge singer remained constant through the years: straightforward, concentrated on melody and lyrics without resorting to vocal gimmicks. Like many young singers of his era, his idol was Sinatra.
"I tried to mimic him," Damone said in a 1992 interview with Newsday. "I decided that if I could sound like Frank maybe I did have a chance. I was singing his words, breathing his breaths, (doing) his interpretation, with the high notes, the synergy."
Sinatra and Damone, along with Tony Bennett, Perry Como, Dean Martin and others — comprised a group of Italian Americans who dominated the postwar pop music field. Far from resenting the mimicry, Sinatra praised Damone's singing ability.
Damone still drew crowds in nightclubs and concerts into his 70s, before illness prompted his retirement to Palm Beach with his fifth wife, fashion designer Rena Rowan.
Damone appeared in several MGM musicals and he was originally cast in "The Godfather," but the role of a budding singer seeking mob help in a Hollywood career eventually went to Al Martino.
He wrote in his memoir, "Singing Was the Easy Part," that he never considered himself a showman like Milton Berle or Sammy Davis Jr.
"That wasn't my particular gift," he wrote. "My gift was singing."
Written By JENNIFER KAY
Copyright © 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
111 Entries
I first saw Vic Damone before he was a hit in A & S in downtown Brooklyn, NY. I then joined his fan club & tried to see him whenever he appeared. I always enjoyed his performance and am saddened to learn of his passing. Rest In Peace as you sing with the Angels.
Jean Marie Palmay
May 4, 2021
I am always distraught when a great talent such as Vic Damone passes away. I am reading his book "SINGING WAS THE EASY PART" as we speak.
Robert Hover
May 16, 2019
Rest Vic, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Harry Simpson
February 11, 2019
You have my deepest condolences. When someone like Vic dies, they become a memory, and the memory becomes a treasure. Vic gave us many memories to treasure.
May you find comfort in knowing that God keeps those who have passed away in death in his memory because they are precious to him. (Psalms 116:15) Please, find peace in knowing that He understands your grief and that He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6, 7)
May you also find comfort in the support of your family and friends.
Sincerely, keo
January 9, 2019
We will never forget a great voice and person.
Frank Fratto,family
October 27, 2018
Vic,is family! when in Chicago,Vic came to our home dinner
(homemade pasta,ravioli &sauce w meatballs.)prepared by grandma Bianca.When we took her to see his show,Vic came to the table to sing for her,the song"MaMa"and "Maria". Beautifully preformed.
Rest in peace ,mi fratillo.(brother)
Condolences from the Fratto family to your family.
Frank Fratto
October 27, 2018
Thank you for all of the pleasure that we received listening to your wonderful music.
May you rest in peace.
Skip and Mary Lou De Beradinis
July 22, 2018
One of the greatest commercial voices in the business. A great mentor of Italian-Americans of his time. God bless his soul. Ciao, paisano!
Ronald Primavera
June 27, 2018
Rita DiTraglia
June 2, 2018
He brought a beautiful voice into the world. Always one of my very favorite singers. Rest in peace.
V M
May 18, 2018
We've lost one of the greatest crooners the music industry has ever seen. Your voice will continue to inspire, influence and live on beyond all of us.
My condolences to the family and friends of Vic Damone.
John Ares
May 1, 2018
Loved your voice. Will miss you. Chow my love. Rest well
Antoinette Johnston
April 28, 2018
Loved you. Will miss your beautiful voice I often play. You were wonderful. Chow
Antoinette Johnston
April 28, 2018
"REST IN PEACE"
JENNIFER BARIBAULT
April 4, 2018
J
Janice Firenze
March 30, 2018
Just finished reading your book. You lived a life I had always dreamed of. Rest In Peace.
Bob LaGravinese
March 20, 2018
the VERY BEST SINGER OF ALL TIME. Had the pleasure of dinner in Philadelphia several years ago with he and his late wife. my prayers to his family; thank God i have most all of his music.
thomas x. diskin
March 17, 2018
I had the pleasure of hearing Tony Martin praise Mr. Damone a number of times. I was Tony's friend and accordionist. He would often mention a song and then say; "We'll save that one for budy Vic Damone". They were great together in HIT THE DECK, one of the great MGM Movie Musicals. I have had the pleasure of working with Donny Osborne who recalls his boss, Mel Torme talking often of Mr. Damone. You were truly among the Very Best of the Very Best. Thank's Vic. Mr. Damone.
Gabriel Guerrero
March 15, 2018
MICHAEL-CHUMBLEY,WEST-PALM-BEACH,-FLA--hI-VIC,-THIS-IS-JUST-ANOTHER-CRUNER,THAT-HAS-ENJOYED-YOUR-MUSIC&-VOICE.-jUST-LIKE-FRANK-TONY-MICHAEL-BUBLE,YOU-COULD-ADD-ME,-TO-THE-TALENTED-FIEW,WHO-LOVE-TO-BELT-OUT-A-SONG-FOR-THEM&-&-JUST-FOR-OURSELVES.i-HAVE-BEEN-SINGING,-FOR-MOST-OF-MY-LIFE&STILL-HAVE-THE-DREAM,-OF-HITTING-IT-BIG,-OR,JUST-REACH-THE-NEXT-STEP-IN-MY-LOVE-OF-MUSIC&-SINGING-.by-NOW,-YOU&FRANK,-MUST-BE-FIGHTING-OVER-THE-MICROPHONE,-SO,-LIKE-THE-BOB-HOPES-SONG,--thanks,-for-the-memories,--from-one-singer--to-another,-or-red-skeltEAN-ENDED-HIS-TV-SHOW,--MAY-god-bless.
March 13, 2018
My sincere condolences to the family of Vic Damone. I appreciated his own words that his signing voice was truly a gift. He sang with such clarity and beautiful sound. May the God of all comfort heal your heart and give you strength at this difficult time.
Diane
March 13, 2018
Always remember him: Endless music scores from "My Fair Lady" (The Street Where You Live), 'Gigi", "An Affair to Remember" etc. plus TV shows and movies: "Rich, Young & Pretty", "Kismet", "Hit the Deck", "Hell to Eternity". He will be greatly missed!!!
Norma Pressimone
Friend
March 3, 2018
Matthew McGuire
February 26, 2018
Janice Firenze
February 24, 2018
C
February 24, 2018
I will never forget going to a Vic Damone/Diahann Carroll show in Las Vegas. The room was not much bigger than my living room. It was such an intimate time with this great entertainer. He was warm and wonderful. He will be missed.
Sue Kasparek
February 23, 2018
Dear Damone Rory and I wish to extend our condolences's on the loss of Vic Damone.luv,faith/rory
faith/rory tobin/dockett
February 21, 2018
To the family of Vic Damone: It's painful to loss a loved one. We will cherish his memories and singing that touched so many lives. May the God of comfort give you peace during this most difficult time.
JMS
February 20, 2018
I am from Cleveland and long time friend of Dominic Visconsi Sr. A dear friend of Vic DAMONE. I still remember in a limo in New York in the 80s going to see Artie Shaw and Mr Visconsi singing Vic DAMONE songs all the way to the BLUE NOTE where Artie was appearing. I have a band in Las Vegas and perform at times at the ITAILIAN AMERICAN CLUB on SAHARA ave. Where many of VIC' S friends in show biz hang out. I lived in FOUNTAIN HILLS Az. many years and PERRY DAMONE was a good good friend. VIC, of the many hundreds of " COVERS " of the song " THAT'S ALL I ASK OF YOU " your version or cover, is the most AMAZING song I have ever heard. I was performing at SWINGOS NITE CLUB in Cleveland and PERRY DAMONE had given me this recording by you and I gave the CD to Jim SWINGO and they played VIC DAMONE version prior to me going on stage, the room went nuts when they heard THAT'S ALL I ASK OF YOU. Everyone wanted a version of that song by him. RIP YOU GREAT ICON to your industry.
Danny
February 20, 2018
Rest In Peace Vic DaMone you will be missed
Tenika Patterson
February 20, 2018
Sorry for your loss. May you find comfort knowing that the God of comfort is with you. Too, know that our Heavenly Father is very saddened by your loss too. Msy the memories of him help with the void left. His voice was a part of our household. He will be missed by many.
L Franklin
February 19, 2018
I've left a message of sympathy previously.
Marie Engel
February 19, 2018
Mario Vassallo
February 19, 2018
19th Feb.2018
Vic has given me endless pleasure as an interpreter of quality material.
As an accompanist I would have loved to play for him.
Ian Henry
Isle of Wight
England
Ian Henry
February 19, 2018
Years ago I had the opportunity to meet Vic Damone on a couple of occasions on the golf course in Palm Springs. He took time to say hello and was courteous and giving of his time. It was a pleasure to meet him.
And now, with his passing, I remember Vic Damone with fond memories of years past.
Anthony Contasti
February 18, 2018
Rest In Peace Vic, I wish we could have spoken before you passed so I could thank you for your friendship over the years. Our golf games, the trips we took together, the personal conversations we had. Hilde thanks you for that unforgettable singing of our Wedding song True Love you sang to her on our 50th. Say hello to Rena for Hilde and I. Big Jim
James Mc Guigan
Friend
February 18, 2018
I am very sorry for the loss of Mr. Damome! I am young, but I always enjoyed listening to his music with my grandmother. He was truly a talented man, and preformers of his caliber are so rare today. I hope that God's word with its promises can heal the broken hearts of the family, friends and fans who are so deeply saddened by this loss (Psalm 147:3).
M
February 18, 2018
Uncle Vic,
You will be missed by your family friends and the music world. I will always remember seeing you perform at Meadowbrook music Hall, when you came to Michigan. When we would go afterwards to eat, people looked at us not because of you , but because we were just a load Italian family laughing and reminiscing about when the entire family would gather for special occasions in Auntie Dots basement! La Familia ! Prayers and blessings to your family during this difficult time. Much love ...
Mary Beth (MB) Damone
February 18, 2018
I have followed your singing career since I was 13 years old....have every record you ever recorded and, then some....I will miss you as I would a member of my own family...Sleep well...God will be pleased to have you home so you can sing for Him...God rest your soul....
Thomas Santamauro
February 17, 2018
ANOTHER LEGEND HAS FALLEN...MEMORIES OF A FINE, CLASSY SINGER will remain in my heart...PRAYERS
Valenda Newell
February 17, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
G. Freeman
February 17, 2018
My condolences and heartfelt prayers to the family and friends during this most difficult time. May the God of all comfort, comfort you and grant you peace now and in the days ahead.
February 17, 2018
Thanks for the Precious Musical Memories! You were my inspiration to our musical talents and enthusiasm!
You will be remembered in our hearts forever!! Rest in peace.
Donna James
February 16, 2018
Though I never met you my mother Mae damone always talked about you. I always was so proud to tell people, my cousin is Vic Damone. Now you are with your mother Mamie and my mother Mae and the whole damone-farinola family. God bless. You were truly gifted. With love
Mary Levakis
Family
February 16, 2018
My dear Vic my Brocken heart goes with you
I will never forget you I love you forever.
I will have a tree planted for you in Jerusalem
Evelyn Faccini
February 15, 2018
He had the most wonderful voice.He is my all-time favorite. Rest in peace.
my deepest condolences.
February 15, 2018
We thank family members for sharing their love one with all of us
His gift was enjoyed by many
May our Heavenly Father grant family friends and fans the gift of peace during this time
For he cares for all his creations
Jackie
February 15, 2018
Thank you for sharing your wonderful gift, your beautiful voice with us. We will miss you. Rest Well.
Billie Brant
February 15, 2018
I recall hearing his music as a child. The family can r reflect upon the effect Vic Damone's music had upon others May the family receive from fellow family and friends during this loss. The memories can become reality when God restores Vic Damone and others to life on earth with the prospect of their living on a paradise earth. He can resume his singing if he desires.
Mrs. K. Jackson
February 15, 2018
My sincere condolences to all of the family. I was fortunate to meet Vic Damone when I was in elementary school with his sister Rae Sandra. I was only 8 yrs old & remember his fabulous voice. At the time he was in in his twenties, but what a memory !! The radio station I listen to in SC plays his songs often. May he rest in peace. Betty Roode
Betty Roode
February 15, 2018
RIP VIC SAY HELLO TO FRANK,LOVE TO THE
FAMILY.
SALLY SINATRA NJ.
February 15, 2018
What a talented man!!! Vic and his amazing voice will be missed. May the family and friends who shared a piece of their life and time with Vic find comfort in knowing that the of God of all comfort will bind up the hearts that ache because of losing Vic. Psalm 109:16.
February 14, 2018
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
February 14, 2018
Sorry to see one of best voices leave us. I saw him once in person in Atlantic City and remember a fine and beautiful entertainer. RIP Vic Damone.
February 14, 2018
I have fond memories of Vic Damone. I am so sorry to learn of his death.
May the God of tender mercies comfort the family during this time in your life. 2nd Cor. 1:3.
February 14, 2018
Offering my deepest condolences.
May your hearts receive comfort from the God of peace and the love of family and friends today ,tomorrow and always.
Doris Walker
February 14, 2018
I brought my beloved mother to see Vic in concert 10 years ago. She had impeccable taste in music, and he was among her favorite singers. I found out why; his voice was magical. May he rest in peace, while his music is our gift eternally.
David DiCarlo
February 14, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
February 14, 2018
Always enjoyed Vic's music and played his records as a DJ 50 years ago. R.I.P. Sir!
Richard Snowden
February 14, 2018
RIP Thanks for the memories .prayers for your family
February 13, 2018
Handsome Italian man with a great voice.
My sympathy goes out to his family and friends
Joan
February 13, 2018
Rest in Peace, and may the light shine upon you. Very sad for your family, great loss. I had the honor of knowing him when I was a teenager in New York. Dottie Moccia Johnson, Largo, Fl.
Dottie Johnson
February 13, 2018
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Damone family and friends at this difficult time.
CF
February 13, 2018
Our hearts are broken with the sad news of Mr. Damone's death. Peace and love to his family. Thank you, Vic, for the hours and hours and hours of lovely memories and music that will live forever!! Please tell us the funeral will be public and share details so his many fans can attend and show their respect.
Mike Linn
February 13, 2018
For three years, we have been enjoying Mr. Damone's music, on "Siriusly Sinatra" satellite radio show in our car. Vic's renditions will always be remembered fondly. You can sure understand his words, to help learn the songs he sung so well. God bless his family and friends.
Ellen & Thomas Robinson
February 13, 2018
I was saddened to hear of Vic Damone's passing. A fond family memoryI learned a a child was how Tony Paster helped Vic get started. Tony convinced Vic that along with his great voice he needed to get his nose fixed. I have a picture of Vic with tony in a Middletown, Connecticut nightclub. It hangs proudly in my Rec. room.
Charlie Souza
Charles Souza
February 13, 2018
Vic Damone was a great singer that was widely admired for his vocal talent! God bless and R.I.P.
PETER CULLEN
February 13, 2018
To the family of Vic Damone: Another music legend is gone. He may be gone from this place, but most definitely will not be forgotten.
Kay Reckord Ames
February 13, 2018
I was so shocked to read of Mr.Damone's passing. We've lost another wonderful singer. I have been a fan of this very handsome gentleman since I was in my teens and like most teenage girls at that time, had a crush on him. I too am of Italian decent. He had an awesome voice, one I could, and did, listen to over and over. So very sorry for your loss, but hold tight to the wonderful memories and lessons he left with you. Know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. RIP Vic
Kay Reckord Ames
February 13, 2018
My husband and I send our condolences and sympathy to the family of Vic Damone. He will always be a favorite entertainer who will be missed by many.
Ulysses and Marcia Bowie
February 13, 2018
Good night, Vic - rest well.
I've told this story many times.
The year was 1948 and the Indians won the world series, so I cut school with a buddy, and not having the money to buy a ticket, instead went to Oakwood Country Club to hang out and maybe caddy.
We walked into the clubhouse and there he was, Vic Damone, swinging a club and looking his handsome best. (He was 19 or 20) I didn't have the guts to address him, so We just stood around and watched.
He smiled at us and walked out to the course, and I never forgot what a cool guy was Vic Damone, and how I (almost) met him.
Tony Caruso
Cleveland, Ohio
Tony Caruso
February 13, 2018
To the family of Mr. Vic Damone I would like to offer my sincere condolences. May prayers strengthen you in this difficult time.
L. Johnson
Cleveland, OH
February 13, 2018
Beloved memories of Mr. Damone's appearance at Rainbow and Stars in NYC. I interviewed him, and not only one of the best pipes in the business, but a true gentleman.
david lynch
February 13, 2018
To The Family Of Vic Damone
My condolences to the family on the loss of your dear beloved one. May the God of tender mercies comfort you and grant you peace now and in the days ahead.
R. C.
February 13, 2018
An amazing voice. Condolences to his friends and family.
Rob Jones
February 13, 2018
I have been a devoted fan of Vic's since I was 12 years old - had a fan club for him when I was a teenager, been fortunate to know him all these years - have seen him in many concerts in many cities, knew his wonderful parents, met his four sisters, have met all his children and grandchildren - we were at his last concert at Kravis Center in Palm Beach January, 2011. In the acknowledgement section of his book, Vic mentioned me as his most loyal fan - an honor for me. My thoughts, prayers and sympathy to his daughters and grandchildren - he will be missed but we have many memories of times shared with him as well as all of his beautiful music. RIP Vic!
Ann Titus
February 13, 2018
why in the world wasn't he still on TV even on the talk shows we like seeing the stars from the 30's to the 60's and know how they are doing
I will always enjoy playing he records that i have kept all these years he will be missed and may his light always shine
February 13, 2018
Thank you for all of the wonderful music you performed. You were and still are my vocal idol. Rest In peace Mr. Damone.
Joseph Cerasa
February 13, 2018
This is a great man and will always be in my memory. I met first Mr. Damone and his wife in Palm Beach through a mutual friend. He was very gracious, friendly and treated me like he knew me for many years. He will be remembered with great honor and respect.
RC Marciano
February 13, 2018
My sincere condolences at times such as this,few words of comfort maybe all that you can bear,so rely on God of all comfort and he will comfort you every morning in times of distress Isaiah 33:2.
Sidney Jones
February 13, 2018
What a shock at the loss of this family friend. We first met in 1954 when I was 5 yrs old, went to the Chicago Theater where Vic was judging a baby contest with Jeff Chandler and I won. He had us come backstage and that started a long, warm relationship. Following him to where he was appearing here, in Lake Geneva and in Florida he always was gracious to take time with us - mom even brought him sausage & peppers when he was at Mill Run in Niles. He loved talking Italian with my Dad, swapping recipes with my grandmother, even gave me a sweet 16 birthday party when he was here in Chicago at the Sahara Supper Club. Always a gentleman, always classy, one of the greatest singers. My family & I will miss him greatly. RIP Vito!!!
Francine Myers
February 13, 2018
Linda Tracy
February 13, 2018
DS and Family
February 13, 2018
The first long play record I ever bought was Vic singing Ave Maria. I gave it to my mother for mother's day, she loved it and played it until it wore out. That was around 1958. May his memory be eternal.
Rose Beis
February 13, 2018
So sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort grant you strength during this difficult time.
February 13, 2018
Another music legend gone. I also loved his "On the street where you lived". Condolences to his family.
Yvonne
February 13, 2018
Oh my, that voice. Just listened to it again on you tube. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of this fine man. Gain strength from our Heavenly Father, Jehovah, to get you through. (Philippians 4:13)
Deborah
February 13, 2018
Remembering you at my Sr prom Say hello to Sandy
February 13, 2018
Your loved one sang with joy of heart. His passion for music was felt through out. There will soon be a time when you can say life without end at last, with your loved one and his wonderful pipes.-Psalms 36:9
Ms. Morgan
February 13, 2018
Thanks for the wonderful songs throughout the years; Rest In Peace, Mr Vic Damone
George Lyons
February 13, 2018
May the perpetual Light shine upon you, dear friend. We are all so sad to lose you and will miss you terribly. Sending condolences to your family and friends and love to Victoria.
Nancy, Sr. and Nancy, Jr.
February 13, 2018
Vic Damone was one of my mother's favorite singers and growing up listening to his music, I have learned to love him too. He will continue be present in spirit and live on through his great music.
Garth Newberry
February 13, 2018
His voice was so awesome. May the God of all comfort hears your cries and rescue you during this time of sorrow. I'm truly sorry. Psalms145:18,19
L W
February 12, 2018
I have to agree with Frank. Farewell to this handsome man with the wonderful voice. He will live on in his music. Rest in Peace Vic.
Sheila
February 12, 2018
Godspeed Vic, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Harry Simpson
February 12, 2018
Offering heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Damone. No doubt many sacrifices were made so we could enjoy the talents of your dear loved one. May your treasured memories comfort and strengthen you during the difficult days ahead. Thank you!
February 12, 2018
My heart is sore....his voice was amazing, his talent unbounded.....Rest easy Mr Damone, the angel choir just got ALOT better
Peggie Colucci-Cahill
February 12, 2018
What a great voice Loved all of his songs.May he rest in Peace with OUR Great Lord in Heaven. Our prayers to his family The Kajzer Family
Kajzer Family
February 12, 2018
My dad ( Bobby Fain) loved your music and so did I rest in peace.
Marilyn Fain
February 12, 2018
Damone's Family, Friends,
Fans,
So sorry to learn of the loss of your dear loved one. We are offering our condolences and prayers to the family at this difficult time. We enjoyed his singing and the movies he played in.
February 12, 2018
Rest in Peace
Scott Chamberland
February 12, 2018
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