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A veteran performer of popular music, a skilled vocalist who's also a classically trained pianist, Neil Sedaka showcased his skill, talent and charm to the delight of an appreciative crowd in Columbus Park Wednesday evening.
From the first strains of opening song "Bad Blood" through other favorites such as "Oh! Carol" "Calendar Girl" and "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen," Sedaka displayed the flair for lyrics and melody that has made him one of popular music's most successful songwriters and enduring performers.
Local resident Jim Giliberto has followed Sedaka for years. "I really enjoy everything that he does," said Giliberto while relaxing in a lawn chair waiting for the concert to begin. It's about the fourth time he's seen Sedaka live. "I like his voice, and the music that he writes is fabulous. He hasn't lost his voice in 50 yearshe survived the Beatles."
"I grew up with Neil," said Pat Chester, expressing the sentiment of many long-time fans. New to Stamford, she said she plans to see all the Pops in the Park Series concerts.
Sedaka, the first performer in this year's series, introduced songs and sets with easy, career-referencing patter. "I was known as the king of the tra-la-las and do-be-dos. When I ran out of lyrics, I would 'do-be-do,'" said Sedaka, who sold $40 million records between 1956 and 1963.
Ghirmai Teferi heard Sedaka for the first time in his native Ethiopia. He used Sedaka's songs to woo dates, he said. "My favorite song is 'Oh! Carol.' Maybe he'll sing it tonight," said Teferi. Sedaka granted his wish.
Irv Lebovics and wife Irene came from Wilton for the concert. Lebovics, for whom "Love Will Keep Us Together" is a standout song, has been a Sedaka fan for decades. "He can sing you every single," his wife said.
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