Charlie Gracie was a pioneer of rock ’n’ roll and the first star of that era to emerge from the Italian-American community of Philadelphia, to be followed later by Frankie Avalon, Fabian, Freddy Cannon and Bobby Rydell.

He started making records in an R&B and rockabilly style as early as 1952, recording a song called Rockin’ And Rollin’ before the term gained universal currency. After signing to Cameo Records in 1956, he had his landmark breakthrough hits with the US No.1 Butterfly and No.8 Fabulous plus the UK No.6 Wanderin’ Eyes.

This 42-track set includes his A- and B-sides from his early career on the Cadillac and Twentieth Century labels, and his subsequent releases on the Cameo, Coral, Roulette, Felsted and President labels. Also included as bonus tracks are live performances from US and UK TV shows and from the movie Jamboree.

It naturally includes all his career chart hits. It’s a comprehensive overview of his recordings during the key era of his career. Still performing in his early ’80s, he remains one of the artists who were in the chart vanguard of the rock ’n’ roll era.

REVIEWS

“What makes this collection doubly interesting is the inclusion of some film and TV recordings. These include his take on Rock The Joint from the Paul Whiteman TV show and a series of UK made recordings from the 6.5 Special TV show, backed by Don Lang and his Frantic Five. Take it as read the remastering is superb, and the sound quality is as great as it was when Charlie cut these many classics. ”  –  John Howard (UK Rock & Roll Magazine Issue 195)

“A very enjoyable and desirable 2xCD package that has a great deal in store for Charlie’s many fans”  –  Chris Woodford (Now Dig This Issue 448)