The music world lost a true “teen idol” yesterday with the passing of Bobby Rydell at the age of 79. A prolific hitmaker, Rydell – born Robert Louis Ridarelli in Philadelphia in 1942 – recorded 34 Top 100 hits during his career, but it was between 1959 and 1964 that he was the hottest, placing 19 songs in the Top 40.

Every one of the 11 songs in this medley were part of his Top 40 success.

Despite selling 25 million records during his long career, Rydell never considered himself a rock legend. “I was not really a rock and roll singer. I’m an American Songbook guy.”

He spent the latter part of his life as part of “The Golden Boys” stage production, along with fellow Philadelphian teen idols Frankie Avalon and Fabian.

Memories … That’s What We’re All About

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Bobby Rydell Medley