3 Singers From Utica Take us on a Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane

How about a nice leisurely stroll down Mohawk Valley's memory lane?

Here's a few native Central New York  performers who will likely stir up some memories.

 Andy and the Classics

They were a high school band comprised of Andy Citadino (sax, vocals), Mike Carletta (guitar, vocals), Joe DePalma (drums, vocals) and Tim Maggiolino (bass, vocals). They were recognized for their on stage skits, and their masterful choreography. They also performed at many well-known establishments throughout Central New York.

The band began its rock life as the Premiers in 1959. Performing at many local nightspots and high school and college concerts. The Premiers soon changed its name to Andy and the Classics.
During the early 1960s the band frequently played before large audiences at DiCastro's in Sylvan Beach a club that during those days was one of the "hottest" of local establishments.

Back in the 80's I used to spin this record at the first radio station I ever worked at: WSCM AM 1190 in Cobleskill, NY. I was fifteen or sixteen in this picture. I certainly thought I was the coolest kid on the block...lol

Here's their song "Wilma!"

 Annette Funicello

Her name speaks for herself. She's a Utica native, and the most popular Mouseketeer. You remember her starring in a series of Beach Party movies with Frankie Avalon. You may also recall her one of a kind singing voice. She had nine hit songs that broke into the Billboard charts. Three of those songs made the top 20 including: "Tall Paul," "Oh Dio Mio," and this one: "Pineapple Princess."

According to her autobiography, "A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes: My Story," Funicello was born in Utica on Oct. 22, 1942, and her father repaired military vehicles at the Rome Air Depot, later Griffiss Air Force Base, during World War II.

Fran Cosmo

Utica native Cosmo performed with the rock band Boston. He spent time on the road touring with them from 1994-2004. He currently heads up his band called Cosmo. His son Anton is also in the band. He is a graduate of Utica Free Academy. Fran had a slew of hit songs!

In 1994, Cosmo was featured as the sole lead vocalist on the platinum Boston album Walk On, which reached #7 on the Billboard Charts and produced three hit singles, including "I Need Your Love", which climbed to #4 on the Mainstream Rock Chart, and "Walk On" which reached #14.

 

Here's Fran singing "I Need Your Love."

Here's this morning's Just Jen in case you missed it!

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