Connie Francis fixes her hair during a 1959 press reception at the Dorchester Hotel in London
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Keystone/ Getty Images
Connie Francis fixes her hair during a 1959 press reception at the Dorchester Hotel in London
Keystone/ Getty Images
Pop singer Connie Francis has passed away at the age of 87. She was the first female singer to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was best known for her hit song “Who’s Sorry Now?” and her appearance in the 1961 film, Where the Boys Are.
Her publicist, Ron Roberts, confirmed her death in a Facebook post.
Originally named Concetta Franconero, she changed her name to Connie Francis at the age of 13 on the advice of television host Arthur Godfrey. She rose to fame in 1957 with her rendition of “Who’s Sorry Now?”
Despite her initial dislike for the song, it became a major hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Connie Francis went on to sell over 40 million records by the age of 25, with sixteen of them achieving gold status. Her most successful single, “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool,” was released in 1960.
After her music career, Connie Francis tried her hand at acting but faced more challenges than triumphs. Tragedy struck in 1967 when a close friend was murdered in her home, and a botched nasal surgery affected her singing voice.
Despite facing personal hardships including a traumatic rape incident in 1974, Connie Francis persevered. She underwent multiple surgeries to regain her voice and continued to perform. Her resilience and determination were evident as she made a comeback to the music scene.
Connie Francis’s life was marked by struggles, including hospitalizations for bipolar disorder and the tragic murder of her brother. However, she found solace in music and eventually returned to the stage with a renewed passion for performing.
Her legacy lives on through her music and the impact she made on the industry. Connie Francis will be remembered not only for her chart-topping hits but also for her strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Connie Francis’s story serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us that determination and passion can overcome even the greatest of challenges. Her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, ensuring that her legacy will endure for generations to come.
