Del Shannon: The Life and Career of the “Runaway” Singer
Del Shannon was an iconic American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 1960s with his hit single “Runaway”. He was known for his unique falsetto voice, which broke new ground in the world of rock and roll. Despite his untimely death in 1990, Shannon’s music continues to inspire people around the world. Here are some interesting facts about the life and career of this gifted musician.
Bio
Del Shannon was born as Charles Weedon Westover on December 30, 1934, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He grew up in Coopersville, Michigan with his five siblings. During his teenage years, Shannon became interested in music and started playing the guitar and singing. In 1958, Shannon started performing as a solo artist, and soon after, he got discovered by Ollie McLaughlin, a talent scout from New York. Shannon’s first single, “Runaway,” was released in 1961 and quickly rose to the top of the charts.
Age and Relationships
Del Shannon was married to Shirley Nash from 1956 until his death in 1990. The couple had two children, a daughter named Michele Westover and a son named Craig Westover. Shannon was 55 years old when he died by suicide in Santa Clarita, California.
Height
Del Shannon was listed at 5 feet and 9 inches tall, which was considered relatively tall for a man in the 1960s.
Career
Shannon’s career was characterized by a unique sound and style that gained a large following in the early 1960s. He was known for his unmistakable falsetto voice, which set him apart from other rock and roll singers of his time. His breakthrough hit, “Runaway,” reached number one on the charts and became an instant classic. The song’s unforgettable opening riff and Shannon’s soaring vocals captured the imagination of millions of music fans around the world.
Shannon continued to produce hits throughout the 1960s, including “Hats Off to Larry” and “Little Town Flirt.” He also enjoyed success as a songwriter, penning hits for other artists like Brenda Lee and The Searchers. Despite his initial success, Shannon’s popularity waned in the late 1960s, and he struggled to find a new audience. However, he continued to perform and record music until his death in 1990.
Top Songs
Del Shannon’s music has stood the test of time, and he is still considered a pioneer of rock and roll. Here are some of Shannon’s top songs:
- “Runaway”
- “Hats Off to Larry”
- “Little Town Flirt”
- “Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun)”
- “So Long Baby”
- “The Swiss Maid”
Net Worth
At the time of his death, Del Shannon’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million. Although his career had its ups and downs, Shannon’s music has endured and continues to inspire new generations of fans.
The Legacy of Del Shannon
Del Shannon was a talented musician who paved the way for many artists who followed in his footsteps. His unique voice and style captured the spirit of the early 1960s and left an indelible mark on the world of music. Despite his struggles with depression and addiction, Shannon’s contribution to rock and roll will always be remembered. As fellow musician Tom Petty once said, “Del Shannon was one of the all-time greats, and I will always be grateful for the influence he had on my music.” Shannon’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans around the world.
