History of Frank Sinatra in Timeline
Frank Sinatra, a highly acclaimed American singer and actor, remains one of the most iconic entertainers of the 20th century. Known by monikers such as "Chairman of the Board" and "Ol' Blue Eyes," Sinatra achieved global fame and sold an estimated 150 million records, establishing himself as one of the best-selling music artists worldwide. His influence on music and popular culture endures.
December 12, 1915: Frank Sinatra's Birth
On December 12, 1915, Francis Albert Sinatra was born in Hoboken, New Jersey. He would become a highly influential American singer and actor.
April 2, 1916: Delayed Baptism
Due to injuries sustained at birth, Francis Albert Sinatra's baptism at St. Francis Church in Hoboken was delayed until April 2, 1916.
1928: Attended David E. Rue Jr. High School
In 1928, Frank Sinatra attended David E. Rue Jr. High School, marking his early education.
1931: Attended and expelled from A. J. Demarest High School
In 1931, Frank Sinatra attended A. J. Demarest High School (now Hoboken High School) but left without graduating after 47 days due to expulsion for "general rowdiness".
1935: Joined the 3 Flashes
In 1935, Frank Sinatra got his first break when his mother persuaded the 3 Flashes to let him join their singing group, a significant early step in his music career.
1938: Good friends with Joseph Fischetti
In 1938, Frank Sinatra and mobster Joseph Fischetti became good friends and acted like "Sicilian brothers".
1938: Singing Waiter at The Rustic Cabin
In 1938, Frank Sinatra found employment as a singing waiter at "The Rustic Cabin" in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, which led to performing on the WNEW radio station.
March 1939: First Solo Studio Recording
In March 1939, Frank Sinatra recorded "Our Love", his first solo studio recording, arranged by Frank Mane from Jersey City radio station WAAT.
August 1939: Re-release of All or Nothing at All
In August 1939, Columbia Records re-released Harry James and Sinatra's version of "All or Nothing at All", which later reached number 2 on June 2, 1943.
November 1939: Left Harry James to join Tommy Dorsey Band
In November 1939, Frank Sinatra left the Harry James band to replace Jack Leonard as the lead singer of the Tommy Dorsey band, seeking greater success.
1939: Joins Harry James band
In 1939, Frank Sinatra joined the Harry James band as a vocalist, marking an early stage in his professional music career.
January 26, 1940: First public appearance with the Tommy Dorsey band
On January 26, 1940, Frank Sinatra made his first public appearance with the Tommy Dorsey band at the Coronado Theatre in Rockford, Illinois, opening with "Stardust".
April 1940: First vocal hit, Polka Dots and Moonbeams
In late April 1940, Frank Sinatra's first vocal hit, the song "Polka Dots and Moonbeams", marked an early milestone in his career.
June 1940: Tommy Dorsey Godfather to Nancy Sinatra
In June 1940, Tommy Dorsey was named the godfather to Frank Sinatra's daughter, Nancy, indicating the close relationship between the two men at that time.
May 1941: Topped male singer polls
By May 1941, Frank Sinatra topped the male singer polls in Billboard and DownBeat magazines, indicating his growing popularity.
1941: Film debut in Las Vegas Nights
In 1941, Frank Sinatra made his film debut performing in an uncredited sequence in Las Vegas Nights, singing "I'll Never Smile Again" with Tommy Dorsey's Pied Pipers.
1941: Recordings with Tommy Dorsey
In 1941, Frank Sinatra recorded multiple songs with Tommy Dorsey including "Oh! Look at Me Now", "Dolores", "Everything Happens to Me", and "This Love of Mine" released by RCA Victor.
January 19, 1942: Bluebird recording session
On January 19, 1942, Frank Sinatra recorded "Night and Day", "The Night We Called It a Day", "The Song is You", and "Lamplighter's Serenade" at a Bluebird recording session, with Axel Stordahl as arranger and conductor. This session was a turning point in his career.
August 1942: Legal battle with Dorsey settled
In August 1942, a legal battle between Frank Sinatra and Tommy Dorsey was settled, freeing Sinatra to pursue his solo career but required him to pay Dorsey 43% of Sinatra's lifetime earnings.
September 3, 1942: Dorsey bidded farewell to Sinatra
On September 3, 1942, Tommy Dorsey bidded farewell to Frank Sinatra, marking the end of their professional relationship.
December 30, 1942: Legendary opening at the Paramount Theatre
On December 30, 1942, Frank Sinatra had his "legendary opening" at the Paramount Theatre in New York, leading to the phenomenon known as "Sinatramania".
1942: Partnership with Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne
From 1942, Frank Sinatra recorded 24 songs composed by Jule Styne with lyrics by Sammy Cahn.
1942: Recordings with Tommy Dorsey
In 1942, Frank Sinatra recorded multiple songs with Tommy Dorsey including "Just as Though You Were There", "Take Me", and "There Are Such Things" released by RCA Victor.
February 1943: Your Hit Parade
From February 1943, Frank Sinatra performed on the radio show "Your Hit Parade", enhancing his popularity and visibility.
June 1, 1943: Signed with Columbia Records as a solo artist
On June 1, 1943, Frank Sinatra signed with Columbia Records as a solo artist, marking the beginning of his independent recording career during the musicians' strike.
December 11, 1943: Classified 4-F
On December 11, 1943, Frank Sinatra was officially classified 4-F by his draft board, making him "not acceptable for military service" due to a perforated eardrum. Army files indicated the real reason was his emotional instability.
1943: Peak of Popularity
By 1943, Frank Sinatra had reached the top spots in polls of most popular singers.
1943: Cameo in Reveille with Beverly
In 1943, Frank Sinatra had a cameo role along with Duke Ellington and Count Basie in Charles Barton's Reveille with Beverly, making a brief appearance singing "Night and Day".
1943: Solo nightclub appearance at New York's Riobamba and concert at Waldorf-Astoria
In 1943, Frank Sinatra made his first solo nightclub appearance at New York's Riobamba and had a successful concert at the Waldorf-Astoria New York, solidifying his position in New York high society. He released singles such as "You'll Never Know", "Close to You", "Sunday, Monday, or Always" and "People Will Say We're in Love". By the end of 1943, he was more popular in a DownBeat poll than Bing Crosby.
1943: Recordings with Tommy Dorsey
In 1943, Frank Sinatra recorded multiple songs with Tommy Dorsey including "It Started All Over Again", "In the Blue of Evening", and "It's Always You" released by RCA Victor.
1943: Signed with Columbia Records
In 1943, Frank Sinatra signed with Columbia Records as a solo artist, a significant step towards establishing his independent career.
October 1944: Columbus Day Riot at Paramount Theatre
In October 1944, when Frank Sinatra returned to the Paramount Theatre, a near riot, known as the Columbus Day Riot, occurred outside the venue due to the overwhelming number of fans trying to get in.
December 1944: Ended Your Hit Parade appearances
In December 1944, Frank Sinatra's appearances on the radio show "Your Hit Parade" came to an end.
1944: USO Tours and Releases
In 1944, Frank Sinatra entertained the troops during USO tours, worked with the Andrews Sisters on the radio, and released "I Couldn't Sleep a Wink Last Night" and his version of "White Christmas".
1944: Leading roles in Higher and Higher and Step Lively
In 1944, Frank Sinatra was given leading roles in Higher and Higher and Step Lively for RKO.
1944: Campaigning for Democrats
In 1944, after meeting President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Frank Sinatra heavily campaigned for the Democrats in the presidential election.
November 1945: Settling Strike at Froebel High School
In November 1945, Frank Sinatra was invited to Gary, Indiana, to try to settle a strike at Froebel High School, leading to accusations of being a communist.
1945: Co-starring in Anchors Aweigh
In 1945, Frank Sinatra co-starred opposite Gene Kelly and Kathryn Grayson in the Technicolor musical Anchors Aweigh, in which he played a sailor on leave in Hollywood. The song "I Fall in Love Too Easily", sung by Sinatra in the film, was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
1945: First Appearance in Seattle
In 1945, Frank Sinatra had his first appearance in Seattle, WA.
1945: Political Activity and Performances
In 1945, Frank Sinatra was heavily involved in political activity while also singing on 160 radio shows, recording 36 times, and shooting four films.
1946: Appearance in Till the Clouds Roll By
In 1946, Frank Sinatra briefly appeared at the end of Richard Whorf's Till the Clouds Roll By, singing "Ol' Man River".
1946: Continued Success and High Earnings
In 1946, Frank Sinatra continued to be heavily involved in political activity while also singing on 160 radio shows, recording 36 times, and shooting four films. By 1946, he was performing on stage up to 45 times a week, singing up to 100 songs daily, and earning up to $93,000 a week.
1946: Released Debut Album
In 1946, Frank Sinatra released his debut album, "The Voice of Frank Sinatra", marking a key milestone in his solo career.
1946: Releases and Album Success
In 1946, Frank Sinatra released several singles, including "Oh! What it Seemed to Be", "Day by Day", "They Say It's Wonderful", "Five Minutes More", and "The Coffee Song", and launched his first album, The Voice of Frank Sinatra, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard chart.
1946: Sinatra attended Mafia Havana Conference
In 1946, Frank Sinatra was present at the Mafia Havana Conference with Lucky Luciano, resulting in negative press and the headline "Shame, Sinatra".
1946: Conducting and Single Release
In 1946, Frank Sinatra's love of conducting was indulged with the release of the set Frank Sinatra Conducts the Music of Alec Wilder, and "Mam'selle" was released as a single.
October 30, 1947: Key to the City
On October 30, 1947, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Key to the City by Mayor Fred M. De Sapio in his native Hoboken.
1948: Decline in Popularity
By the end of 1948, Frank Sinatra had slipped to fourth on DownBeat's annual poll of most popular singers.
1948: Campaigning for Harry S. Truman
In 1948, Frank Sinatra actively campaigned for President Harry S. Truman.
1948: Album Release and Film Role
In 1948, Frank Sinatra's third album, Christmas Songs by Sinatra, was originally released as a 78 rpm album set. Sinatra was featured in The Miracle of the Bells and donated his $100,000 wages to the Catholic Church due to press negativity surrounding alleged Mafia connections.
1949: Appeared in On the Town
In 1949, Frank Sinatra appeared in the musical "On the Town", demonstrating his talent in musical films.
1949: Co-starring in Take Me Out to the Ball Game and On the Town
In 1949, Frank Sinatra co-starred again with Gene Kelly in Take Me Out to the Ball Game and teamed up with Kelly for a third time in On the Town, playing a sailor on leave in New York City.
1949: Awarded the Hollzer Memorial Award
In 1949, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Hollzer Memorial Award by the Los Angeles Jewish Community.
1949: Further Decline and Album Panned
In 1949, Frank Sinatra was pushed out of the top spots in polls for the first time since 1943, and his album Frankly Sentimental was panned by DownBeat.
January 1950: Death of Publicist George Evans
In January 1950, Frank Sinatra's publicist, George Evans, died, which was an enormous shock to Sinatra and crucial to his career and popularity.
1950: The Frank Sinatra Show began on CBS
In 1950, "The Frank Sinatra Show" began on CBS, marking his foray into television and expanding his reach.
1950: Vocal Hemorrhage Comparison
In 1950, Frank Sinatra suffered from a vocal hemorrhage. Stan Cornyn compared Sinatra's soft singing on the Francis Albert Sinatra & Antônio Carlos Jobim album to the time of his vocal hemorrhage.
1950: Last Singles with Columbia
In 1950, Frank Sinatra's last two albums with Columbia, Dedicated to You and Sing and Dance with Frank Sinatra, were released.
1951: Starring in Double Dynamite
In 1951, Frank Sinatra starred in Double Dynamite, an RKO Irving Cummings comedy produced by Howard Hughes.
January 1952: Recording of 'If I Could Write a Book'
In January 1952, Frank Sinatra recorded "If I Could Write a Book", which was seen as a "turning point", forecasting his later work with its sensitivity.
April 1952: Performance at Kauai County Fair
By April 1952, Frank Sinatra's decline in popularity was evident, leading him to perform at the Kauai County Fair in Hawaii.
September 17, 1952: Last Recording for Columbia
On September 17, 1952, Frank Sinatra's last studio recording for Columbia, "Why Try To Change Me Now", was recorded in New York.
1952: Campaigning for Adlai Stevenson
In 1952, Frank Sinatra campaigned for Adlai Stevenson.
1952: Starring in Meet Danny Wilson
In 1952, Frank Sinatra starred in Joseph Pevney's Meet Danny Wilson.
March 13, 1953: Signs with Capitol Records
On March 13, 1953, Frank Sinatra signed a seven-year recording contract with Capitol Records and recorded his first Capitol single, "I'm Walking Behind You".
August 1953: Career Revival with From Here to Eternity
In August 1953, the release of the film From Here to Eternity marked the beginning of a remarkable career revival for Frank Sinatra.
November 1953: Collaboration with Riddle
In November 1953, Frank Sinatra and Nelson Riddle developed and refined their musical collaboration, with Sinatra providing specific guidance on the arrangements.
1953: Role in From Here to Eternity
In 1953, Frank Sinatra starred in Fred Zinnemann's From Here to Eternity, playing the role of "Maggio". He won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance, which helped him regain his position as the top recording artist in the world.
1953: Visit to Frenchay Hospital
In 1953, Frank Sinatra visited Frenchay Hospital.
1953: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
In 1953, Frank Sinatra won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "From Here to Eternity", marking a high point in his acting career.
1953: Split with Ava Gardner
In the fall of 1953, Frank Sinatra's split with Ava Gardner had a profound impact on the types of songs he sang and on his voice, leading him to sing songs with a "brooding melancholy".
January 4, 1954: Release of Songs for Young Lovers
On January 4, 1954, Frank Sinatra's first album for Capitol, Songs for Young Lovers, was released, featuring songs which became staples of his later concerts.
1954: Starring in Young at Heart and Suddenly
In 1954, Frank Sinatra starred opposite Doris Day in the musical film Young at Heart, and earned critical praise for his performance in the film noir Suddenly.
1954: Jimmy Van Heusen succeeds Jule Styne
In 1954, Jimmy Van Heusen succeeded Jule Styne as Frank Sinatra's main composer.
1955: Release of In the Wee Small Hours and Tour of Australia
In 1955, Frank Sinatra released In the Wee Small Hours, his first 12" LP, and embarked on his first tour of Australia.
1955: In the Wee Small Hours album release
In 1955, Frank Sinatra released the album "In the Wee Small Hours", featuring arrangements by Nelson Riddle, a significant work in his discography.
1955: Starred in The Man with the Golden Arm and Guys and Dolls
In 1955, Frank Sinatra starred in "The Man with the Golden Arm" and the musical "Guys and Dolls", showcasing his versatility as an actor.
1955: Roles in 'The Man with the Golden Arm', 'Guys and Dolls', and 'The Tender Trap'
In 1955, Frank Sinatra was nominated for an Academy Award and BAFTA Award for his role in "The Man with the Golden Arm". He also starred in "Guys and Dolls" and "The Tender Trap". Also in 1955, Sinatra was nominated for a BAFTA Award for his role in "Not as a Stranger".
February 1956: Inauguration of Capitol Records Studios
In February 1956, Frank Sinatra's recording sessions inaugurated the studios at the Capitol Records Building, complete with a 56-piece symphonic orchestra.
March 1956: Release of Songs for Swingin' Lovers!
In March 1956, Frank Sinatra's album Songs for Swingin' Lovers! was released, featuring a recording of "I've Got You Under My Skin" by Cole Porter.
1956: Appeared in High Society
In 1956, Frank Sinatra appeared in "High Society", a musical film showcasing his continued presence in the genre.
1956: Campaigning for Adlai Stevenson
In 1956, Frank Sinatra campaigned for Adlai Stevenson.
1956: Conducting, Convention and Performances
In 1956, Frank Sinatra displayed his penchant for conducting in Frank Sinatra Conducts Tone Poems of Color, sang at that year's Democratic National Convention, and performed with The Dorsey Brothers at the Paramount Theatre.
1956: Songs for Swingin' Lovers! album release
In 1956, Frank Sinatra released the album "Songs for Swingin' Lovers!" with arrangements by Nelson Riddle, further solidifying his success.
June 9, 1957: Concert at the Seattle Civic Auditorium
On June 9, 1957, Frank Sinatra performed in a 62-minute concert conducted by Nelson Riddle at the Seattle Civic Auditorium, his first appearance in Seattle since 1945.
1957: Album Releases
In 1957, Frank Sinatra released Close to You, A Swingin' Affair!, and Where Are You?—his first album in stereo.
1957: Role in 'The Pride and the Passion'
In 1957, Frank Sinatra starred in "The Pride and the Passion".
1957: Won Golden Globe Award for Pal Joey
In 1957, Frank Sinatra won a Golden Globe Award for his role in "Pal Joey", recognizing his acting achievements.
1958: Recording Angel Eyes
In 1958, Frank Sinatra recorded "Angel Eyes" which he had recorded on the Only the Lonely album.
1958: Album Release and Success
In 1958, Frank Sinatra released the concept album Come Fly with Me with Billy May, which reached the top spot on the Billboard album chart. He also released Frank Sinatra Sings for Only the Lonely in September, a successful collection of introspective songs.
September 19, 1959: Master of Ceremonies for Nikita Khrushchev
On September 19, 1959, Frank Sinatra was asked by 20th Century Fox to be the master of ceremonies at a luncheon attended by Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, solidifying his position in Hollywood.
1959: Release of Come Dance with Me! and Grammy Awards
In 1959, Frank Sinatra released Come Dance with Me!, a highly successful album that won multiple Grammy Awards.
1960: Sinatra bought share in Cal Neva Lodge & Casino
In 1960, Frank Sinatra bought a share in the Cal Neva Lodge & Casino at Lake Tahoe and built the Celebrity Room theater.
1960: Starts Reprise Records
In 1960, Frank Sinatra left Capitol Records and started his own record label, Reprise Records, giving him more artistic control over his music.
January 1961: Organizing Inaugural Gala
In January 1961, Frank Sinatra and Peter Lawford organized the Inaugural Gala in Washington, D.C., for President John F. Kennedy.
January 27, 1961: Benefit show for Martin Luther King Jr.
On January 27, 1961, Frank Sinatra played a benefit show at Carnegie Hall for Martin Luther King Jr.
February 1961: Release of Ring-a-Ding-Ding!
In February 1961, Frank Sinatra's first album on Reprise Records, Ring-a-Ding-Ding!, was released and became a major success, peaking at No.4 on Billboard. That same month Reprise Records also released Ben Webster's The Warm Moods, Sammy Davis Jr.'s The Wham of Sam, Mavis River's Mavis and Joe E. Lewis's It is Now Post Time.
1961: Revisiting Old Songs
In 1961, Frank Sinatra featured songs from his 1950 album "Sing and Dance with Frank Sinatra" on his Capitol release "Sinatra's Swingin' Session!!!".
1961: Performances for Mexican Charities
In 1961, Frank Sinatra traveled to Mexico to perform in support of Mexican charities, showcasing his involvement in philanthropic activities.
1962: Sinatra held 50-percent share in the Cal Neva Hotel
By 1962, Frank Sinatra reportedly held a 50-percent share in the Cal Neva Hotel.
1962: Sinatra-Basie: An Historic Musical First album release
In 1962, Frank Sinatra collaborated with Count Basie on the album "Sinatra-Basie: An Historic Musical First", marking a notable musical partnership.
1962: Concerts in Israel
In 1962, Frank Sinatra gave a series of concerts in Israel.
1962: Starred in The Manchurian Candidate
In 1962, Frank Sinatra starred in "The Manchurian Candidate", a critically acclaimed film that added to his acting repertoire.
1962: Performances for Mexican Charities
In 1962, Frank Sinatra traveled to Mexico to perform in support of Mexican charities, showcasing his involvement in philanthropic activities.
1962: Snubbed by President Kennedy
In 1962, Frank Sinatra was snubbed by President Kennedy, who stayed with Bing Crosby due to FBI concerns.
1962: Collaboration with Count Basie for Sinatra-Basie Album
In 1962, Sinatra collaborated with Count Basie for the album Sinatra-Basie, which was a popular and successful release. Also in 1962, Sinatra released his third instrumental album Frank Sinatra Conducts Music from Pictures and Plays.
1962: Release of Sinatra and Strings
In 1962, Sinatra released Sinatra and Strings, arranged by Don Costa. This album became one of Sinatra's most critically acclaimed works from his Reprise period, marking the beginning of larger orchestras and a 'lush string sound' in pop music.
1963: Suspension of Gambling License
In 1963, Frank Sinatra's gambling license was temporarily suspended after Giancana was spotted at the Cal Neva Lodge & Casino, leading to him giving up his share in Cal Neva and the Sands. His son, Frank Jr., was also kidnapped that year.
1963: King sat weeping at concert
In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. sat weeping in the audience at one of Frank Sinatra's concerts as Sinatra sang "Ol' Man River".
1963: Release of The Concert Sinatra
In 1963, Sinatra reunited with Nelson Riddle for The Concert Sinatra, an ambitious album featuring a 73-piece symphony orchestra arranged and conducted by Riddle. The album used advanced recording techniques involving multiple synchronized machines and optical signals onto 35mm film.
July 1964: Dedication of the Frank Sinatra International Youth Center
In July 1964, Frank Sinatra attended the dedication of the Frank Sinatra International Youth Center for Arab and Jewish children in Nazareth, underscoring his commitment to charitable causes and international cooperation.
1964: It Might as Well Be Swing album release
In 1964, Frank Sinatra collaborated with Count Basie again on the album "It Might as Well Be Swing", continuing their successful musical relationship.
June 1965: Benefit Concert for Dismas House
In June 1965, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin performed live in St. Louis to benefit Dismas House, a prisoner rehabilitation and training center.
September 1965: Release of September of My Years
In September 1965, Frank Sinatra released the album September of My Years, which went on to win the Grammy Award for best album of the year. Also the Rat Pack concert, called The Frank Sinatra Spectacular, was broadcast live via satellite to numerous movie theaters across America
1965: Performance at Newport Jazz Festival
In 1965, Frank Sinatra and Count Basie performed together at the Newport Jazz Festival, marking another significant collaboration.
1965: September of My Years album release and Emmy win
In 1965, Frank Sinatra recorded "September of My Years" and starred in the Emmy-winning television special "Frank Sinatra: A Man and His Music", a year of notable accomplishments.
February 1966: Recording of Sinatra at the Sands
During January and February 1966, Frank Sinatra's first live album, Sinatra at the Sands, was recorded at the Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Sinatra was backed by the Count Basie Orchestra, with Quincy Jones conducting.
1966: Donation to Youth Center in Jerusalem
In 1966, Frank Sinatra donated his $50,000 fee for his appearance in the movie "Cast a Giant Shadow" to the Youth Center in Jerusalem.
1966: Sinatra at the Sands and Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim album release
In 1966, Frank Sinatra recorded "Sinatra at the Sands" and one of his most famous collaborations, "Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim", with Tom Jobim.
1967: Recording sessions with Antônio Carlos Jobim
In 1967, Frank Sinatra began a series of recording sessions with Antônio Carlos Jobim, leading to the Grammy-nominated album Francis Albert Sinatra & Antônio Carlos Jobim, one of the best-selling albums of the year.
1967: Starred in Tony Rome
In 1967, Frank Sinatra starred as the title character in "Tony Rome", one of his many detective roles.
1968: Francis A. & Edward K. album release
In 1968, Frank Sinatra released "Francis A. & Edward K." with Duke Ellington, further expanding his collaborations with music icons.
1968: Working with Hubert H. Humphrey
In 1968, Frank Sinatra worked with Hubert H. Humphrey and remained a supporter of the Democratic Party until the early 1970s.
April 1969: "My Way" in UK charts
In April 1969, "My Way" entered the UK charts, beginning a long run.
1969: Recordings of Contemporary Songs
In 1969, Frank Sinatra recorded works by Paul Simon ("Mrs. Robinson"), the Beatles ("Yesterday"), and Joni Mitchell ("Both Sides, Now") in an effort to maintain his commercial viability.
1969: Publication of The Godfather
In 1969, Mario Puzo's novel, The Godfather, was published. Sinatra believed that the character Johnny Fontane was based on him.
November 2, 1970: Final Recording Session Before Retirement
On November 2, 1970, Frank Sinatra recorded his last songs for Reprise Records before his self-imposed retirement. He gave a rousing performance of "That's Life", and finished the concert with "Angel Eyes".
1970: Endorsing Ronald Reagan
In 1970, Frank Sinatra endorsed Republican Ronald Reagan for a second term as Governor of California, though still a registered Democrat.
1970: Release of Watertown
In 1970, Sinatra released Watertown, a critically acclaimed concept album with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Jake Holmes. Despite critical acclaim, it sold only 30,000 copies and reached a peak chart position of 101.
1970: Less outspoken on racial issues
In 1970, when Frank Sinatra changed his political affiliations, he became less outspoken on racial issues.
September 1971: "My Way" in UK charts
By September 1971, "My Way" remained a hit and had been in the UK charts for 122 weeks, including 75 non-consecutive weeks in the Top 40.
1971: Received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award
In 1971, Frank Sinatra received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award, an honor recognizing his significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
1971: Recording of This Happy Madness
In 1971, Frank Sinatra recorded "This Happy Madness" on Sinatra & Company. Critic Gene Lees considered Sinatra to have delivered the lyrics to perfection.
1971: Release of Sinatra & Company
In 1971, Frank Sinatra released Sinatra & Company which contained Denver's "Leaving on a Jet Plane" and "My Sweet Lady".
1971: Retirement and "My Way" release
In 1971, Frank Sinatra retired following the release of the song "My Way", marking a temporary departure from his illustrious career.
July 1972: Changed Allegiance to Republican Party
In July 1972, Frank Sinatra officially changed allegiance to the Republican Party and supported Richard Nixon in the 1972 presidential election.
October 20, 1972: Performance at Young Voters Rally
On October 20, 1972, Frank Sinatra performed "My Kind of Town" at a Young Voters Rally in Chicago at the request of President Richard Nixon.
November 1, 1972: Raised $6.5 million for Israel
On November 1, 1972, Frank Sinatra raised $6.5 million in bond pledges for Israel and was given the Medallion of Valor.
1972: Sinatra confronts Mario Puzo
In 1972, Sinatra confronted Mario Puzo at Chasen's, allegedly shouting abuse and threats due to Sinatra's belief that the character Johnny Fontane in The Godfather was based on him.
1973: Comeback with TV Special and Album
In 1973, Frank Sinatra came out of retirement with a television special and album, Ol' Blue Eyes Is Back, arranged by Gordon Jenkins and Don Costa. The television special, Magnavox Presents Frank Sinatra, reunited Sinatra with Gene Kelly.
January 1974: Return to Caesars Palace
In January 1974, Frank Sinatra returned to Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, continuing his comeback after a short-lived retirement.
October 1974: Concert at Madison Square Garden
In October 1974, Frank Sinatra appeared at New York City's Madison Square Garden in a televised concert, later released as the album The Main Event – Live. He was backed by Woody Herman and the Young Thundering Herd.
1975: Concerts with Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan
In 1975, Frank Sinatra performed in concerts in New York with Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald, at the London Palladium with Basie and Sarah Vaughan, and in Tehran at Aryamehr Stadium, giving 140 performances in 105 days.
1976: Reunion of Martin and Lewis and Awards
In 1976, Frank Sinatra reunited Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis for the first time in nearly twenty years at the "Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon". He was also selected as the "Top Box Office Name of the Century" by the Friars Club and received multiple honorary awards.
January 1977: Death of Dolly Sinatra
In January 1977, Frank Sinatra's mother, Dolly, died in a plane crash on the way to see him, causing him to cancel shows and recover in Barbados.
1978: Lawsuit against land developer
In 1978, Frank Sinatra filed a $1 million lawsuit against a land developer for using his name in the "Frank Sinatra Drive Center" in West Los Angeles.
1978: Frank Sinatra International Student Center
In 1978, the Frank Sinatra International Student Center at Israel's Hebrew University in Jerusalem was dedicated.
1978: Frank Sinatra Student Center Dedicated
In 1978, the Frank Sinatra Student Center at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem was dedicated in his name.
1979: Grammy Trustees Award and other honors
During a party at Caesars in 1979, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Grammy Trustees Award, while celebrating 40 years in show business and his 64th birthday. Also in 1979, former President Gerald Ford awarded Sinatra the International Man of the Year Award, and he performed in front of the Egyptian pyramids for Anwar Sadat, raising over $500,000 for charity.
1980: Donation to Ronald Reagan's campaign
In 1980, Frank Sinatra donated $4 million to Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign.
1980: Released "New York, New York"
In 1980, Frank Sinatra released "New York, New York", a song that became one of his signature tunes.
1980: Release of 'Trilogy: Past Present Future'
In 1980, Frank Sinatra's first album in six years, "Trilogy: Past Present Future", was released. The triple album featured songs from both the pre-rock and rock eras, and garnered six Grammy nominations, winning for best liner notes. It peaked at number 17 on Billboard's album chart and spawned the signature tune "Theme from New York, New York".
February 1981: Gambling License Restored
In February 1981, Frank Sinatra's gambling license was restored following support from Ronald Reagan.
1981: Controversy over Sun City performance and release of "She Shot Me Down"
In 1981, Frank Sinatra performed in Sun City, Bophuthatswana, breaking a cultural boycott against apartheid-era South Africa, for which he received the Order of the Leopard and was made an honorary tribal chief. Also in 1981, he released "She Shot Me Down", an album praised for its dark tone.
1982: Deal with the Golden Nugget of Las Vegas
In 1982, Frank Sinatra signed a $16 million three-year deal with the Golden Nugget of Las Vegas.
September 21, 1983: Lawsuit against Kitty Kelley
On September 21, 1983, Frank Sinatra filed a $2 million court case against Kitty Kelley for punitive damages, before her unofficial biography, His Way, was even published.
1983: Kennedy Center Honors
In 1983, Frank Sinatra was honored at the Kennedy Center Honors, a prestigious recognition of his contributions to American culture.
June 1984: Performance at the White House
In June 1984, Frank Sinatra performed at the State Dinner in the White House honoring Sri Lankan President J. R. Jayawardena at the invitation of Reagan.
September 19, 1984: Dropped Kitty Kelley Lawsuit
On September 19, 1984, Frank Sinatra was forced to drop the case against Kitty Kelley, with several leading newspapers expressing concerns about censorship.
1984: Honorary Doctorate from Loyola Marymount
In 1984, Frank Sinatra received an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Loyola Marymount University.
1984: Collaboration with Quincy Jones on 'L.A. Is My Lady'
In 1984, Frank Sinatra worked with Quincy Jones on the album "L.A. Is My Lady", which was well received critically.
January 1985: Reconciliation with Nelson Riddle
In January 1985, Frank Sinatra patched up his differences with Nelson Riddle at a dinner organized for Ronald Reagan and asked Riddle to make another album with him.
1985: Honorary Doctorate from Stevens Institute
In 1985, Frank Sinatra received an Honorary Doctorate of Engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology.
1985: Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 1985, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.
1986: Hospitalization for diverticulitis
In 1986, Frank Sinatra collapsed on stage while performing in Atlantic City and was hospitalized for diverticulitis, which left him looking frail.
1986: Tina Sinatra blames Kitty Kelley for father's surgery
In 1986, Kitty Kelley said that Tina Sinatra blamed her for her father's colon surgery.
June 6, 1988: Last recordings with Reprise
On June 6, 1988, Frank Sinatra made his last recordings with Reprise, including "My Foolish Heart" and "Cry Me a River", for an album that was not released.
1989: Bronze plaque in Frank Sinatra Park placed
In 1989, a bronze plaque was placed in Frank Sinatra Park in Hoboken upon its opening.
1990: Ella Award and final performance with Ella Fitzgerald
In 1990, Frank Sinatra was awarded the second "Ella Award" by the Los Angeles-based Society of Singers and performed for a final time with Ella Fitzgerald at the award ceremony.
1991: Active touring schedule
Frank Sinatra maintained an active touring schedule in 1991, performing 73 concerts.
1992: Active touring schedule
Frank Sinatra maintained an active touring schedule in 1992, performing 84 concerts in seventeen countries.
1992: CBS aired Sinatra miniseries
In 1992, CBS aired a television miniseries based on Frank Sinatra's life titled "Sinatra".
1993: Return to Capitol Records with 'Duets'
In 1993, Frank Sinatra returned to Capitol Records and released "Duets", which became his best-selling album.
March 1994: Fainting Onstage in Richmond, Virginia
During his tours, Frank Sinatra fainted onstage in Richmond, Virginia in March 1994.
1994: Legend Award at the Grammy Awards
In 1994, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Legend Award at the Grammy Awards, where he was introduced by Bono.
February 25, 1995: Last public performance
On February 25, 1995, Frank Sinatra sang for the last time before a live audience at the Palm Desert Marriott Ballroom during the Frank Sinatra Desert Classic golf tournament.
1995: Release of The Complete Reprise Studio Recordings
In 1995, take number 18 of "My Foolish Heart" from the June 6, 1988 session was released in The Complete Reprise Studio Recordings album.
1995: 80th Birthday Tribute and Last Performance
In 1995, to mark Frank Sinatra's 80th birthday, the Empire State Building glowed blue and a star-studded tribute was held. At the end of the program, Sinatra performed on stage for the last time singing the final notes of "Theme from New York, New York".
February 1997: Heart attack and hospitalization
In February 1997, Frank Sinatra suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized, leading to no further public appearances.
1997: Awarded Congressional Gold Medal
In 1997, Frank Sinatra was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, further cementing his legacy as an American icon.
1997: Election to the Gaming Hall of Fame
In recognition of his years of association with Las Vegas, Frank Sinatra was elected to the Gaming Hall of Fame in 1997.
May 14, 1998: Frank Sinatra's Death
On May 14, 1998, Frank Sinatra, the iconic American singer and actor, passed away.
May 20, 1998: Sinatra's funeral
On May 20, 1998, Frank Sinatra's funeral was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills, California, attended by 400 mourners.
1998: Ray Liotta portrays Sinatra in The Rat Pack
In 1998, Ray Liotta portrayed Frank Sinatra in the movie The Rat Pack.
1998: Plaque marks site of birth house
In 1998, a bronze plaque was placed at the site of Frank Sinatra's birth house in Hoboken.
1999: Release of Sinatra '57 in Concert
After Sinatra's death, Artanis Entertainment Group officially released a recording from June 9, 1957 as Sinatra '57 in Concert.
2002: Frank Sinatra Hall at USC
In 2002, the Frank Sinatra Hall at the USC School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, California, was dedicated.
2003: Sinatra portrayed by James Russo and Dennis Hopper
In 2003, Frank Sinatra was portrayed on screen by James Russo in Stealing Sinatra and by Dennis Hopper in The Night We Called It a Day.
2003: Post office rededicated
In 2003, the main post office in Hoboken was rededicated in Frank Sinatra's honor.
2006: On the Town Rated Highly
In 2006, the film On the Town from 1949, starring Frank Sinatra, ranked No. 19 on the American Film Institute's list of best musicals.
May 2008: USPS issued stamp in Sinatra's honor
In May 2008, the United States Postal Service issued a 42-cent stamp in honor of Frank Sinatra, commemorating the tenth anniversary of his death.
May 20, 2008: Frank Sinatra Day
On May 20, 2008, the United States Congress passed a resolution designating May 13 as Frank Sinatra Day.
2008: Restaurant dedicated to Sinatra opened
In 2008, Wynn Resorts' Encore Las Vegas resort opened a restaurant dedicated to Frank Sinatra.
2012: Robert Knepper portrays Sinatra in My Way
In 2012, Robert Knepper portrayed Frank Sinatra in the film My Way.
December 2015: CBS airs musical tribute to mark Sinatra's centenary
In December 2015, a musical tribute was aired on CBS television to commemorate the centenary of Frank Sinatra's birth.
2015: "My Way" Record
In 2015, "My Way" still held the record for remaining in the UK charts for 122 weeks, including 75 non-consecutive weeks in the Top 40, between April 1969 and September 1971.
2018: Rico Simonini portrays Sinatra in Frank & Ava
In 2018, Rico Simonini portrayed Frank Sinatra in the feature film Frank & Ava, which is based on a play by Willard Manus.
2021: Gravestone Changed
In 2021, Frank Sinatra's gravestone was changed to read "Sleep Warm, Poppa", due to damage caused to the original gravestone.
2021: Statue of Sinatra dedicated
On December 12, 2021, Frank Sinatra's birthday, a 6-foot bronze statue of Frank Sinatra was dedicated in the Frank Sinatra Park.
2023: Ranked on Rolling Stone's list
In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked Frank Sinatra at No. 19 on their list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
2023: Premiere of Sinatra: The Musical
In 2023, Sinatra: The Musical by Joe DiPietro premiered at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, starring Matt Doyle as Sinatra.
2024: Scott Stapp portrays Sinatra in Reagan
In 2024, Scott Stapp of Creed portrayed Frank Sinatra in the film Reagan, a biopic of U.S. President Ronald Reagan.
2024: Sinatra Way named in North Bristol
In 2024, a new road in North Bristol was named Sinatra Way to commemorate Frank Sinatra's 1953 visit to Frenchay Hospital.
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