Jerry Blavat hosts his first holiday concert at the Kimmel Center. The performance kicks off early with a dance party in Commonwealth Plaza--DJed by the Geator himself! The show opens with Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners and Johnny Maestro and Brooklyn Bridge. The second half of the evening, Al Martino and his orchestra perform holiday favorites and hits from Mr. Martino's 40-year career.
Did you make it to the dance party? How was the show?
Okay, so it's all about legends and South Philly - I was reminded as I drove by the mural at 9th and Wharton on my way to work this morning. South Philly loves its native sons - even if they haven't bothered to perform in Philly for 35 years.
I think my expectations were a little off, as I was thinking we'd hear Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree and other rock 'n roll holiday hits. Well, I can put on the cds at home and listen while sipping eggnog and picking the dried red things out of the fruitcake.
Al Martino did indeed sing songs from his career. I just wasn't expecting him to sing every single song he ever recorded, along with songs other people recorded. Lots and lots of songs.
Jerry is still Jerry. And for us yon teenagers who slow danced at Chez Vous to Unchained Melody and mended our shattered little teenage hearts to the music of Little Anthony and the Imperials, Jerry will always be the Boss with the Hot Sauce. Merry Christmas, Geator. You're da best.