Frank Sinatra, also known as Ol' Blue Eyes and The Sultan of Swoon, would have turned 100 years old this month. Even 17 years after his death, his spirit lives on through the voices of similar jazz artists like Michael Bublé. Many artists in different genres have paid tribute to him, which proves that his music is widely recognized and liked.
On Sunday night (December 6th), CBS aired a 100th anniversary special with artists like Tony Bennett, Seth MacFarlane, Carrie Underwood, John Legend, and Usher performing some of his best songs. The special ended with one of his most famous songs "New York, New York," performed by Lady Gaga.
In an article on CBS entitled "Frank Sinatra at 100," his daughter, Nancy Sinatra, is interviewed. She says that seeing him live was a different experience from listening to a CD and, "It was very special, because the electricity in the room was so there. I mean, it was shocking. The minute he walked out on that stage, there was an audible [gasps]."
Walter Cronkite may have said it best: "He has an appealing enthusiasm for the life he has lived. And when he sings, he makes it sound as though it all happened to him."
In honor of his 100th birthday, I compiled a list of his best and most famous lyrics (and quotes).
"People who make a living off other people's fortunes or misfortunes are parasites."
Sinatra said this on Larry King Live in 1988. It's nice to be happy for your friends and family but don't feed off of it; make your own living.
"Fear is the enemy of logic."
Sometimes all you have to do is think something through and then you won't be afraid anymore.
"I like intelligent women. When you go out, it shouldn't be a staring contest."
It's not cute to be dumb, ladies!
"What I do with my life is of my own doing. I live in the best way I can."
Basically, mind your own business.
"The best revenge is massive success."
Though this is quoted way too often, it couldn't be truer. You must constantly remind yourself to work hard, because in the end, those who didn't believe in you will be proven wrong.
"The big lesson in life, baby, is never be scared of anyone or anything."
Just do your own thing and don't let anybody stop you!
"If you don't know the guy on the other side of the world, love him anyway because he's just like you. He has the same dreams, the same hopes and fears. It's one world, pal. We're all neighbors."
Don't hate someone you don't know. We're all trying to get through life in the best way possible.
"Critics don't bother me because if I do badly, I know I'm bad before they even write it. And if I'm good, I know I'm good. I know best about myself, so a critic doesn't anger me."
Everyone should take this into consideration. You know yourself best so don't let someone else's critique get to you. If you think you did well on something, then you did well.
You may know Frank Sinatra as your dad's or grandpa's favorite artist, but he is much more than that. In fact, he's one of my favorite artists. His music is timeless and will continue to be celebrated for many years to come.
