Frankie Laine, 93

[stogie bear]

The American singer Frankie Laine has died following complications during a hip operation, aged 93.

Laine, perhaps best known for singing the theme tune to TV western series Rawhide, sold more than 250 million albums in a career stretching over 40 years.

Part of a generation of great Italian-American crooners whose peers included Frank Sinatra and Perry Como, Laine became one of the most popular entertainers of the 50s, with hits such hits as I Believe, and Jezebel.

That lucky old sun!

One of my favourite singers and entertainers died earlier today. He'll be remembered by most for singing the theme song to the spoof western 'Blazing Saddles!'

He had a varied career even appearing as a principal actor on an episode of Perry Mason.

I have many many fantastic memories of my life listening to the terrific voice, songs and orchestral arrangements on his records.

"Send down that cloud with a silver lining... lift me to paradise!"

He's there now!

[vangough05]

Once again you are full of surprises

[kempthorn]

the obits didn't mention his recording of 'ghost riders
in the sky'. my favorite. being an italian opera buff
he was one of the few pop singers of that era i could listen to. i always called perry como perry coma.