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		Thursday, June 24, 2004

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Paul Anka returns to The Fred

WHAT: Singer/Songwriter, Paul Anka

WHERE: The Frederick Brown, Jr.

WHEN: Friday & Saturday, 8 p.m..

HOW MUCH: $45 per seat

FOR MORE INFO: www.amphitheater.org or phone 770-631-0630.

By LINDSAY BIANCHI
lbianchi@thecitizennews.com

After 45 years in show business, the numbers begin to add up. With over 900 songs to his credit, 124 albums, 22 top 20 hits including three number one songs, Paul Anka’s prolific musical legacy stretches on and on. With so much material under his belt, it is no wonder that he still tours 10 months out of the year. His travels bring him to Peachtree City’s Frederick Brown, Jr. Amphitheater this Friday and Saturday.

Originally from Ottowa, Ontario, a trip to New York at the ripe age of 16, prompted him to write a song for a girl four years his senior, “Diana.” The tune became a number one hit and catapulted Paul to fame as a teen idol. Before the age of 18 he had already penned five top 20 songs, including “Put You Head On My Shoulder”, “You Are My Destiny”, “Lonely Boy”, and “Puppy Love.”

Besides churning out pop music nonstop, Paul Anka has put his talents to work writing film and television themes. “The Tonight Show Theme”, written in 1962, is one of the most recognizable tunes of all time. His theme music for the film, “The Longest Day” was nominated for an Academy Award. In addition to music for the movies, he has also appeared in several films. “3000 Miles To Graceland”, “Mad Dog Time”, and “Captain Ron” all feature appearances by the instantly recognizable star.

Probably the most well known fact about him involves Frank Sinatra. Anka penned one of his most famous songs, “My Way”, for the Chairman of the Board. He also helped out Tom Jones, writing “She’s A Lady” for him and “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” for Buddy Holly. Collaborations with David Foster, Carol Bayer Sager, Richard Marx, Michael McDonald and Michael Jackson prove his writing abilities are in tune with a wide variety of artists.

A perfect romantic evening is awaiting couples both young and old this weekend. Much like Elvis in his day, and Frank Sinatra before him, Paul Anka could make the girls swoon. He still has the magic in his voice and the talent at his fingertips to work his spell over an audience.

Showtime for both evenings is at 8 p.m. Visit www.amphitheater.org for more information about this event or to check on future shows.