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Singer Jerry Vale passes away

Singer Jerry Vale passes away

THE singer Jerry Vale has passed away at his home in the United States. He was 83.

Mr. Vale enjoyed chart success during the 1950s and 1960s with his smooth-voiced renditions of romantic ballads.

Born Genaro Luigi Vitaliano in New York to Italian immigrant parents, Mr. Vale got his big break in 1951 when he was signed for Columbia Records. His first  hit came two years later with You Can Never Give Me Back My Heart. Other early hits included Innamorata (see below) and You Don’t Know Me. 

He went on to record 50 albums during his career, with his list of hit singles including Al Di La, Deep In Your Heart, My Love, Forgive Me (see below), He Who Loves and My Little Girl (Angel All A-Glow).

Mr Vale appeared regularly in Las Vegas and was also popular on the nightclub circuit.

His music appeared on the soundtracks of a number of movies including Goodfellas (1990), Casino (1995) as well as in the TV series The Sopranos. He also made cameo appearances in the three productions. His recording of The Star-Spangled Banner was played at many sporting events over the years.

Mr. Vale passed away in Palm Desert, California, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Rita, and his children Pamela and Robert.

To listen to an excerpt from Innamorata, click here.

To listen to an excerpt from My Love, Forgive Me, click here.

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