At left, a 1978 file photo shows singer Jerry Vale. The popular 1950s crooner has died at his California home. He was 83. A family attorney says Vale died Sunday at his home in Palm Desert. Harold Levy said Vale had been in declining health.
Vale, who had been in declining health, died Sunday at his Palm Desert home surrounded by family and friends, family attorney Harold J. Levy said in a statement.
Born Genaro Louis Vitaliano, Vale started performing in New York supper clubs as a teenager and went on to record more than 50 albums. His rendition of “Volare,” “Innamorata” and “Al Di La” became classic Italian-American songs. His biggest hit was “You Don’t Know Me.”
Vale’s recording of “The Star-Spangled Banner” in the 1960s was played at sporting events for years.
While his albums failed to make the charts in the early 1970s, Vale remained a popular club act.
He also appeared as himself in the movies “Goodfellas,” “Casino” and the TV series “The Sopranos.”
Vale is survived by Rita, his wife of 55 years; a son, Robert; and a daughter, Pamela.
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