I love Johnny Mathis. My mother loved Johnny Mathis. We owned the 45 rpm of Chances Are. I grew up with Johnny’s 45’s, 78’s (albums), tapes and discs. I think I have everything he ever recorded, and I share them with you. I was so fortunate to have seen Johnny in person many times. One of my listeners told me he remembers making out to Johnny Mathis music when he was young. Frankly, most of my generation made out to Johnny Mathis when we were young, and I am sure Johnny knew it.
When Johnny was young and starting out, he tried out many styles. He would try to imitate Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Lena Horne and others. Finally, Mitch Miller persuaded Johnny to be Johnny, go with pop music, romantic ballads and sing it the way the music was composed. Percy Faith was also a major influence on Johnny. That’s the story I was told.
On Sunday, August 18th, Movies Broadway Singers and Beyond pays tribute to Johnny Mathis. Besides Johnny we feature Percy Faith, Ella Fitzgerald, Carmen McRae, Andy Williams and so many others. The show is called Rapture and frankly, I think it is appropriately named. All days and times are below.
For your enjoyment, I have also included some great photos of Johnny and Ella. Oh, and by the way, after I played this show for Mark, he closed his eyes, smiled and said “Beautiful”.
With a song in my heart,
Sherry
Show Times
Sunday, August 18th 2 pm Eastern Time 11 am Pacific Time |
Saturday, August 24th 7 pm Eastern Time 4 pm Pacific Time |
Tuesday, August 20th 1 pm Eastern Time 10 am Pacific Time |
Wednesday, August 28th 2 pm Eastern Time 11 am Pacific Time |
Thursday, August 22nd 5 pm Eastern Time 2 pm Pacific Time |
Friday, August 30th 5 pm Eastern Time 2 pm Pacific Time |