The singer Pat Boone celebrates 90 today
Boone’s career took off in the mid-1950s when he began recording cover versions of popular R&B hitsworldwide
The singer Pat Boone celebrates 90 today
Pat Boone was born Charles Eugene Boone on June 1, 1934, in Jacksonville, Florida. Raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Boone showed early promise in music, performing in church and school. He attended David Lipscomb College (now Lipscomb University) and later transferred to North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas), where he graduated in 1958.
Boone’s career took off in the mid-1950s when he began recording cover versions of popular R&B hits, which were often more palatable to white audiences of the time. His smooth voice and clean-cut image quickly earned him widespread appeal. Hits like “Ain’t That a Shame” and “Tutti Frutti” topped the charts, establishing Boone as a major pop star.
Boone’s popularity soared throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s. He became a teen idol, rivaling Elvis Presley in record sales and fan adoration. Boone’s version of “Love Letters in the Sand” became one of his signature songs, spending five weeks at number one on the Billboard chart in 1957. Other notable hits include “April Love” and “Moody River.”
In addition to his music career, Boone ventured into television and film. He hosted “The Pat Boone Chevy Showroom,” a variety show that aired from 1957 to 1960, showcasing his talents and those of other performers. Boone also starred in several movies, including “April Love” (1957) and “State Fair” (1962).
As musical tastes evolved in the 1960s, Boone’s chart dominance waned, but he successfully reinvented himself in various genres, including gospel and country music. He continued to release albums and perform live, maintaining a loyal fan base. In 1997, Boone released “In a Metal Mood: No More Mr. Nice Guy,” an album of heavy metal covers, which showcased his versatility and sense of humor.
Boone has also been active in television and radio in recent years. He hosted a gospel music program and appeared in infomercials. Additionally, he has written numerous books, including his autobiography “Pat Boone: A New Song.”
Boone married Shirley Foley, daughter of country music star Red Foley, in 1953. The couple had four daughters: Cherry, Lindy, Debby, and Laury. Debby Boone followed in her father’s footsteps and achieved fame with her hit song “You Light Up My Life” in 1977. Boone and Shirley were married for 65 years until her passing in 2019.
A devout Christian, Boone has been vocal about his faith throughout his career. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly those that align with his religious beliefs.
Today, with over 45 million records sold, he remains one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Look back at Pat Boone performing his signature song “Love Letters in the Sand”
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