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Pop Singer Whose Version of the National Anthem Has Been Played at Hundreds of Sporting Events Dies at Age 83

May 19, 2014  •  Post A Comment

A "beloved crooner known for his high-tenor voice and romantic songs in the 1950s and early 1960s has died," reports the Associated Press, adding, "He was 83."

The singer, Jerry Vale, made a recording of "The Star-Spangled Banner" in the 1960s that "was played at sporting events for years," says the AP story.

"Born Genaro Louis Vitaliano," the AP story notes, "Vale started performing in New York supper clubs as a teenager and went on to record more than 50 albums. His rendition of 'Volare,' 'Innamorata' and 'Al Di La' became classic Italian-American songs. His biggest hit was 'You Don't Know Me.'"

Vale also played himself in "The Sopranos" TV series and in two Martin Scorsese directed movies, "Goodfellas" and "Casino."

Adds the AP, "Vale is survived by Rita, his wife of 55 years; a son, Robert; and a daughter, Pamela."

Here's Vale's rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner" that we found on YouTube:

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