FOREWORD
BY NANCY SINATRA
It is fitting that the voice that defined a century should have a centenary. Francis Albert Sinatra, my father, was born December 12, 1915, in Hoboken New Jersey. He came from humble beginnings and set off from there to live a life that few can imagine. He is the embodiment of the American Dream.
Frank’s life spanned the 20th century and he has influenced generations beyond his own. His personality captivated audiences for over 60 years, on and off stage, in and out of the studio, and on the sets of over 50 movies – a peerless career that began in the era of Roosevelt and Ghandi and ended in the decade of Mandela and Clinton.
As his eldest daughter, I had to learn early on that while his heart was always with me, he in fact, belonged to the world. It was, at times, painful for me as a child to be without him. However, I am forever grateful for the times we spent together, the talks we had, the cherished moments that I will never forget. Some of those moments are captured on the pages of this book.
When my daughter Amanda came to me a year ago to explain what she had envisioned, I was thrilled. This book, from its inception, was crafted with respect as a tribute, not only to a musician, actor, and icon, but also a son, a husband, a lover, a friend, a father, and a grandfather. Her team used great care on this project. They no doubt spent countless hours researching and selecting images that, we hope, will resonate with you the reader, the viewer.
This is the man, at home, at play, at rest; a man who loved to paint, write and have a good time. This is the man who was effortlessly warm and generous of his time, talents and knowledge, to family, countless colleagues, friends, and strangers alike. It was important to all of us that we share this with all of you.
Amanda began sifting through the family archive in the hopes of discovering personal and treasured images. There are a number of photographs she found that Dad took himself. His camera was a constant companion from his early teens. My daughter, his granddaughter, unearthed these gems and they are seen here for the first time. She also made sure, as a creative artist, to add many personal touches – for example, the platinum and orange livery of this book are reflections of her grandfather’s own personal style.
Many people have contributed to this memoir, writing their own personal anecdotes, memories and commendations that collectively give us a textured and vibrant portrait of a complex and nuanced man. I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of those individuals for their lovely tributes.
Last, but not least, some of the many legendary photographers he worked with, who were valued chroniclers of his life and career, have contributed pictorial essays. I think you will enjoy seeing his life through the lenses of these talented individuals. They all bring a different perspective, each one invaluable in telling my father’s life story in pictures.
All together, we hope the words and pictures contained within comprise a fitting and exemplary tribute to a man who gave the world so much.
Nancy Sinatra requested an autographed photo from her dad saying “I’m a fan too.” (above).
ALL THE WAY…
BY GEORGE CLOONEY
I was trying to imagine if 100 years ago Frank Sinatra wasn’t born, what would the real impact on the world be? First of all a lot of us wouldn’t be here, because there’s a generation of young people who wouldn’t have fallen in love if Frank hadn’t told us to “come fly with him”… and to “take it nice and easy”… and that “when somebody loves you, it’s no good unless he loves you, all the way.”
He taught us how to deal with setbacks. It’s a big deal when a singer loses his voice. It ends careers. Not Frank. He just reinvented a new style that’s been copied from Bobby Darin to Michael Bublé… and when Rock and Roll stole our imaginations Frank never left our heart. I guess that’s just it… Frank is always there. Music changes, fads come and go but pour yourself a drink, lean back in a chair and put on ‘One For My Baby’ and tell me your evening didn’t just get a whole lot better.
So 100 years ago Frank Sinatra was born, and it’s no exaggeration at all to say the world is a lot better because of it.
Frank Sinatra’s first communion, 1922. Hoboken, New Jersey.
This page and following: Sinatra as a young man with family or friends on the Jersey shore in the mid 1930s (including Nancy’s sister Angela ‘Julie’ Barbato). Photographs by Frank and Nancy Sinatra Snr., and Angela Barbato.
Frank Sinatra (left) with friends Mickey Goldsen, Axel Stordahl and Ken Lane on board Axel’s boat in San Pedro. Sinatra at home (right).
