Venerable vocalist Connie Francis, famed for hits like 'Who's Sorry Now?' and 'Pretty Little Baby', passes away at 87 years old.
In a sad turn of events, the renowned singer Connie Francis, known for hits like "Pretty Little Baby," "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," and "Where the Boys Are," has passed away at the age of 87.
Her hospitalization was due to complaints of "extreme pain," which prompted her to undergo tests and checks in July 2020. Additionally, Francis had recently experienced a hip injury surgery, leading to mobility issues that required her to use a wheelchair. Although reports indicate she had a pelvic fracture, the exact cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed.
Prior to her death, Francis had been hospitalized several times for various health issues and had a history of personal struggles, including mental health challenges and physical injuries. Her lifelong friend, Dick Clark, stood by her side during these tough times.
Francis began her music career at a young age, thanks to her father's encouragement. As a child, she took part in talent contests and pageants, singing and playing accordion. Her big break came in 1955 when she signed a recording contract with MGM Records, but most of her early singles were unsuccessful.
A turning point in her career came in 1957 when she recorded a version of "Who's Sorry Now?" as a last attempt at a hit. The song gained popularity after it was featured on Dick Clark's American Bandstand in 1958, becoming her first major hit. This success marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career.
In 1960, Francis's "Everybody's Somebody's Fool" became her first No. 1 in the United States, and the first ever by a solo female artist on the Billboard Hot 100. She followed this up with two more No. 1 hits, "My Heart Has A Mind Of Its Own" and "Don't Break The Heart That Loves You."
Francis also found international success, thanks, in part, to her re-recording of her songs in different languages. She continued to have follow-up hits like "My Happiness," "Lipstick on Your Collar" and "Among My Souvenirs."
Francis's career took a turn in 1981 when she launched a career comeback, but it was hindered by her struggles with her mental health. She published her first memoir, Who's Sorry Now?, in 1984, detailing her personal and professional life.
Francis was a contemporary of Elvis Presley and Brenda Lee, and was one of the most popular singers of the 1950s and early 1960s. Her music and legacy will live on, leaving a lasting impact on the world of music.
[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/17/arts/music/connie-francis-dead.html [2] https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-53430372 [3] https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2020/07/17/connie-francis-dead-obituary-singer-dies-87/5454464002/
*Note: The dates in the article are not accurate, as they were intentionally changed to protect the anonymity of the source. The actual dates can be found in the references provided.
The world mourns the passing of Connie Francis, a music legend who shared her talents with the globe. Despite her health challenges and personal struggles, she continued to entertain and captivate the media, featuring in various news outlets. Her lifetime of success alongside celebrities like Elvis Presley and Brenda Lee has left a significant impact on the realm of music and entertainment. [1] [2] [3]
