Crooners' Chart Comebacks in the Rock Era

When The Beatles led the British Invasion, it seemed the days of crooners and their iconic renditions of the Great American Songbook were over. However, these seasoned vocalists weren't ready to fade into the background just yet. Several found their way back into the spotlight, hitting the charts with memorable tunes during an era dominated by rock and roll. Let's look at five classic vocalists who proved their timelessness with chart-topping hits in the midst of the rock era.

Frank Sinatra's 'Strangers in the Night' (1966)

Despite his personal disdain for 'Strangers in the Night,' Frank Sinatra's recording of this track composed by Bert Kaempfert with lyrics by Charles Singleton and Eddie Snyder took him back to the top of the pop charts after a gap of 11 years. His subsequent singles following this unexpected hit continued to chart well, securing his place in the modern music scene.

Wayne Newton's 'Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast' (1972)

Wayne Newton, once a budding crooner with hits like 'Danke Schoen,' saw his chart success dwindling as the years went by. Yet in 1972, his dramatic rendition of 'Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast' climbed to No. 4 on the charts, marking the pinnacle of his recording career.

Sammy Davis Jr.'s 'The Candy Man' (1973)

Sammy Davis Jr., another member of the Rat Pack, struck gold with 'The Candy Man,' a tune he wasn't particularly fond of. Originally from the movie 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,' Davis's version became his only No. 1 hit, showcasing his broad entertainment appeal beyond his miscellany of talents.

Paul Anka's 'Times of Your Life' (1975)

Teen idol turned songwriter, Paul Anka reclaimed his status as a hitmaker with the feel-good single 'Times of Your Life.' The song, featured in a Kodak ad campaign, resonated with many for its nostalgic theme, rewarding Anka with his first Top 20 solo hit in over a decade.

Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams' 'Too Much, Too Little, Too Late' (1978)

Johnny Mathis, revered for his romantic ballads like 'Chances Are,' experienced a major comeback when he teamed up with Deniece Williams. Their duet, 'Too Much, Too Little, Too Late,' found a sweet spot between disco and smooth soul, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and reaffirming Mathis's enduring appeal.

Sinatra, Newton, Davis, Anka, Mathis