Frank D'Rone

Originating from Chicago, vocalist Frank D'Rone cut a quartet of albums on the Mercury label spanning the closing years of the 1950s and the opening ones of the following decade, among which After the Ball benefited from the orchestrations of renowned arranger Billy May. Sharing stylistic traits with Bobby Darin as a lively performer, D'Rone had begun his musical journey as a guitarist in bands prior to his Mercury introduction via three brief recording dates in 1957. The debut album Frank D'Rone Sings appeared first, with Blue Velvet arriving two years afterward in 1959. To collaborate with Billy May on the 1960 release After the Ball, D'Rone traveled to Los Angeles, though his association with the label concluded by 1962 upon the issue of In Person. Performances and recordings by D'Rone extended well into the new millennium, highlighted by the impending January 2012 launch of Double Exposure, which showcases expansive ensemble charts from Phil Kelly & the Northwest Prevailing Winds.