IN-PERSON: The Elderwise classroom at the Vineyard Church
Between the end of World War II and the Motown Sound and “British Invasion” of the 1960s, Italian American singers were prominent in pop music. At the peak was Frank Sinatra, who revived his youthful success. Many more joined him. Some, like Tony Bennett, Perry Como, and Dean Martin, became household names. Frankie Laine, Vic Damone, Mario Lanza, Jerry Vale, and others found success as well. In this class we will survey their stories and their recordings. We will also explore why this trend occurred and consider the changing role of Italian Americans in postwar society. Michael Homel is Professor Emeritus of History at Eastern Michigan University. He specializes in 20th century American history and American urban history. He is the author of Unlocking City Hall: Exploring the History of Local Government and Politics, and other publications on urban politics and education.
