Post by 1finemrg on Aug 12, 2020 21:33:04 GMT -5
Complications from COVID-19 claimed the life of Trini Lopez August 11 at the age of 83.
Trini released several records with Columbia, Volk, and King records in the late 50s/early 60s without charting on the Hot 100. On an offer from Snuff Garrett, he tried out as vocalist of the post-Buddy Holly Crickets. Auditions were not successful, but Trini eventually landed a steady gig at the nightclub PJ's. He was heard by Frank Sinatra and secured a contract with his Reprise label.
His debut album was "Live At PJ's" and included his version of "If I Had A Hammer". The song went gold and was a #1 hit internationally. It was Trini's highest charting 45 in the US, peaking at #3.
He would reach the Top 40 an additional 3 times, and chart a total of 13 singles in the Hot 100. His version of "Lemon Tree" would reach #20, and a cover of "Kansas City" would peak at #23. In late 1965, "I'm Coming Home, Cindy" would top out at #39.
He became one of the country's top nightclub performers during that era, regularly headlining in Las Vegas.
He designed 2 guitars for Gibson, the Trini Lopez Standard and the Lopez Deluxe. Both were produced from 1964 - 1971 and are collectors' items today.
He had a minor acting career mostly portraying himself. One notable role was a part in "The Dirty Dozen" playing the character Pedro Jimenez.
He hosted his own NBC TV special in 1969, featuring the Ventures as guests. The soundtrack album to that special had Trini singing his hits backed by the Ventures.
He continued recording and playing live during the years leading to his death.
Obituary
Trini released several records with Columbia, Volk, and King records in the late 50s/early 60s without charting on the Hot 100. On an offer from Snuff Garrett, he tried out as vocalist of the post-Buddy Holly Crickets. Auditions were not successful, but Trini eventually landed a steady gig at the nightclub PJ's. He was heard by Frank Sinatra and secured a contract with his Reprise label.
His debut album was "Live At PJ's" and included his version of "If I Had A Hammer". The song went gold and was a #1 hit internationally. It was Trini's highest charting 45 in the US, peaking at #3.
He would reach the Top 40 an additional 3 times, and chart a total of 13 singles in the Hot 100. His version of "Lemon Tree" would reach #20, and a cover of "Kansas City" would peak at #23. In late 1965, "I'm Coming Home, Cindy" would top out at #39.
He became one of the country's top nightclub performers during that era, regularly headlining in Las Vegas.
He designed 2 guitars for Gibson, the Trini Lopez Standard and the Lopez Deluxe. Both were produced from 1964 - 1971 and are collectors' items today.
He had a minor acting career mostly portraying himself. One notable role was a part in "The Dirty Dozen" playing the character Pedro Jimenez.
He hosted his own NBC TV special in 1969, featuring the Ventures as guests. The soundtrack album to that special had Trini singing his hits backed by the Ventures.
He continued recording and playing live during the years leading to his death.
Obituary
