Frank Sinatra, Jr., beloved vocalist and son of the legendary Frank Sinatra, has passed away at the age of 72. Sinatra Jr. was an iconic voice in his own right, and was currently on tour when he was found dead, unexpectedly, in Daytona Beach, FL. The news was confirmed by his family.
Sinatra Jr. was perhaps best known for his connection to his father. When the elder Sinatra passed away in 1998, many relied on Sinatra Jr. to carry on that important legacy. The son of Nancy Barbato Sinatra and the sister of Nancy Sinatra, Frank Jr. was practically born into a gene pool of extraordinary musical talent.
Interestingly, in 1963, Sinatra Jr. was kidnapped at gunpoint by three armed men. The Sinatra family was forced to pay $240,000 for his return, and the three gunmen were later arrested for their crimes. The kidnapping became quite the scandal at the time, with some accusing Sinatra of falsifying the story for publicity. This was ultimately proven false, however.
Sinatra Jr’s musical career was inspired, working with legends like Duke Ellington, Sam Donahue and more. He also made several television appearances throughout the years, including a spot on a Family Guy episode, and had hit records with songs like “Black Night,” “Believe In Me” and more.
We’re sending our thoughts and prayers to the Sinatra family at this difficult time.