Died On This Date (July 27, 2012) Tony Martin / Popular American Actor & Singer; Career Spanned 76 Years
themusicsover Tony Martin (Born Alvin Morris)
December 25, 1913 – July 27, 2012
Tony Martin was a beloved American actor and singer who, over a career that ran from 1933 until his retirement in 2009 appeared in over two dozen films and released some 45 hit records. On par with the likes of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, Martin built a sizable – mostly female – following thanks to his warm baritone croon. Martin was just 10 when he was given a saxophone by his grandmother, and when he got into high school, he formed his first band. He soon joined a local orchestra where he performed alongside future jazz legend, Woody Herman. After graduating from college, Martin moved to Hollywood where he set his sights on acting. Over the next several years, he worked in films with the likes of Fred Astaire and the Marx Brothers. During the late ’30s and early ’40s, Martin made numerous records for Decca and later recorded for Mercury. His hits included “I Hadn’t Anyone Till You,” “It’s A Blue World,” and “I Get Ideas.” After WWII, Martin hosted his own variety show for NBC and went on to star in many popular musicals of the day. In 1948, he married actress Cyd Charisse with whom he stayed until her passing in 2008 – 60 years. Tony Martin retired after 76 years in show business in 2009, and died of natural causes on July 27, 2012. He was 98.
Thanks to Paul Bearer for the assist.
What You Should Own
Larry Hoppen was the founding guitarist and singer for Orleans, a popular soft rock band that formed in Woodstock, New York in 1972. The band is best remembered for their ’70s pop hits, “Still the One” and “Dance With Me.” As early as 1977, “Still the One” has been played on numerous television shows and films. Throughout their early years, Orleans were a popular opening act for the likes of Jackson Browne, Little Feat and Melissa Manchester. Hoppen was beloved by fans for his beautiful tenor voice, and was the only original member to stay with the group until his passing. Their last album with him was 2008’s Obscurities. Hoppen released two solo albums as well, HandMade and Looking For The Light. Larry Hoppen was 61 when he passed away on July 24, 2012. Cause of death was not immediately released.
Danny American was the bassist for up-and-coming Arizona punk band, West End Crooks. Formed on the west side of Phoenix, the band was reportedly working on new material at the time of American’s passing. American was a well-liked member of the local music scene and was also in his third year at the Phoenix College of Law where he excelled in his classes. He was the recipient of two legal scholarships. Danny American was 32 when he died unexpectedly in his sleep. Cause of death was not immediately released.
