Connie Francis and Bobby Darin when they were on the Ed Sullivan Show
Connie Francis was described by some as the female Elvis Presley of the late 50’s and early 60’s.
The singer, whose record sales were between 80 million and 90 million, died Wednesday at the age of 87.
Ms. Francis had several dozen top 40 records. Retired Chattanooga broadcaster Jerry Lingerfelt worked for WDXB in the 50’s and 60’s, a top 40 radio station. He said Connie Francis was very popular especially at the station sponsored Sock Hops.
The New Jersey native's top 10 songs included “Whose Sorry Now,” “Everybody’s Somebody’s fool,” “Among my Souvenirs,” and “Don’t Break the Heart that loves you.”
Ms. Francis was friends with the family of Mose and Garrison Siskin who started the 365 Club to fund their rehabilitation center on Oak Street. The brothers organized “Star Night” and brought various entertainers to town to perform a benefit concert.
In making the announcement, the brothers played a tape recording from Ms. Francis saying she was looking forward to singing in Chattanooga for a very worthy cause. She urged her fans to pack the city auditorium.
Connie Francis and Morey Amsterdam headlined “Star Night” on April 10, 1966, at the Soldiers and Sailors Auditorium. “Hello Chattanooga” by David Carroll said over 6,000 people attended the show.
This writer was in the audience with a group of other broadcasters, including Luther Masingill, whose favorite Francis’ song was “My Happiness.” Ms. Francis closed the show with “God Bless America” and received a standing ovation.
Ms. Francis starred in several movies, including “Follow the Boys – 1960” and “Where the Boys Are – 1963.” During their showings at Chattanooga’s Rogers Theater, there were long lines on Market Street.
Theater Manager Clyde Hawkins said many of the showings were sold out and some movie goers turned away. He said they were favorites, especially with the young people.
Many Vietnam Veterans recall Ms. Francis touring the Southeast Asia country during the war. Harry Jackson of Chattanooga said he saw her and, when she started singing “God Bless America,” the troops joined her.
On July 4th, Ms. Francis had a special message for her fans and friends and wrote this on her Facebook page:
Hello Everyone,
Today I am feeling much better after a good night, and wanted to take this opportunity of wishing you all a happy Fourth of July.
Thank you all for your continued kind thoughts and prayers.
A Happy Independence Day to you and your loved ones.
Love,
Connie