He hit the national spotlight via his first appearance on the Ted Mack Amateur Hour. And just like today’s “idols” – won fame via an audience vote. Since his chart debut on April 2, 1955 – months before Fats Domino, Chuck Berry Little Richard or Elvis, he has established himself as the second most important force of the early rock era, just behind Presley.
There’s no doubt about it. Pat Boone is the ORIGINAL American Idol. And his appeal continues to be universal in scope. In 2004, on the anniversary of his 50th year in show biz – and the 50th wedding anniversary to his wife Shirley, Pat Boone continues to influence and inspire fans, industry newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.
With no sign of slowing down, this year, Pat Boone will release a new album, continue his speaking engagements and non-stop touring and — of course — take a moment out to hit more than a few golf balls.
A best-selling author, successful entrepreneur, in-demand film actor, chart-topping recording star, family man and legendary humanitarian, Pat’s contribution to the American culture and country’s consciousness has reached legendary status.
With over 45 million units sold and 38 top 40 hits, he’s recognized by Billboard Magazine as the #10 rock recording artist in history, placing higher on that impressive chart than either Madonna or Billy Joel. Entertainment Weekly proclaimed him “Winner of the Week” in 2003 as Pat Boone incredibly landed his 61st hit, “Under God,” a top 15 single on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart from his American Glory album.
His business acumen is surpassed only by his artistic talent. Pat’s own music concern, The Gold Label, continues to nurture up-and-coming recording artists, simultaneously being home to Pat’s own ever-growing body of work, including an all new release slated for early of 2004. In the past two years, the imprint has produced/released 26 albums from such notables as Glen Campbell, Jack Jones, Patti, Roger Williams, and others. For nearly ten years, Pat hosted the gospel music television program, Gospel America on TBN which can currently be seen in television re-runs. He now hosts a weekly one-hour gospel music radio show, as well as the 2 hour “The Music of Your Life” syndicated radio program heard on over 180 stations nationally. Principle owner of KDOC-TV in Orange County, California, Pat is also founder and partner of Cinema Presents/Movie Music, pioneers of live in-theatre entertainment, educational and corporate events.A/nd back in the day, as one of the founders of the American Basketball Association, Rick Barry’s Oakland Oaks brought the first professional basketball title to the West Coast, long before the Lakers became a dynasty in LA.
His first book Twixt Twelve and Twenty became the number one non-fiction best seller for two years. His current tome, A New Song has sold over one million copies. Always the humanitarian, proceeds from this bestseller helped to fund the establishment of a Christian College in Villanova with the main building on campus subsequently named in honor of Pat and Shirley, “Boone Hall.”
Father of 4 daughters, grandpa of 15, the man from Nashville and Columbia University graduate has had a profound impact on the entertainment world. A true legend in every sense of the word, he has inspired the lives of millions via his positive outlook and message of family, compassion, understanding, hope, love and faith.
