September 30, 1935 John Royce “Johnny” Mathis was born in Gilmer, Texas. As a teenager, Mathis was known for his singing and athletic abilities. At San Francisco State College he broke classmate Bill Russell’s high jump record and in 1955 had to decide whether to pursue a recording career or tryout for the 1956 Olympics. […]
Archive | September 30, 2011
September 30th in African American History – Franklin Joseph “Frankie” Lymon
September 30, 1942 Franklin Joseph “Frankie” Lymon, R&B singer and songwriter, was born in Harlem, New York. At the age of 12, Lymon began singing in a group that called itself both The Ermines and The Premiers. In 1955, they wrote the song “Why Do Fools Fall in Love.” On the day of recording, the […]