Johnny Maestro was an American singer who is best known for his work with the groups The Crests, The Del-Satins, and The Brooklyn Bridge. He made a significant impact on the 1950s and 1960s music scene with his smooth vocals and classic hits.
Personal and Family Life
Johnny Maestro was born John Peter Mastrangelo on May 7, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York City. He married Alma Jean Degler in 1964 and had three children, but they later divorced. In December 1985, he married Grace Mastrangelo, who remained by his side until his death in 2010.
Career Highlights
Maestro began his career as the lead singer of The Crests, a doo-wop group that formed in 1956. They achieved fame with hits like “Sixteen Candles” and “Step By Step.” After leaving The Crests in 1960, he briefly pursued a solo career before forming The Brooklyn Bridge in 1968, where he enjoyed further success with the hit “The Worst That Could Happen.”
Death and Legacy
Johnny Maestro passed away on March 24, 2010, in Cape Coral, Florida, after a battle with cancer. He is remembered for his contributions to the doo-wop and rock music genres and continues to be celebrated in oldies music shows. His music remains cherished by fans and has left a lasting legacy in the history of American pop music.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Doo Wop 50 | 2000-09-26 | Himself |
| Hair | 1979-03-15 | Black Boys |
| American Bandstand | 1957-08-05 | Self |