Lead vocalist of The Belmonts, known for harmonious doo-wop hits like "A Teenager in Love" and "Runaround Sue".
Carlo Mastrangelo was an American doo-wop and progressive rock singer, best known as an original member of the iconic group The Belmonts, alongside Dion DiMucci. With his distinctive bass voice, Mastrangelo played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the group, which rose to fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Born on October 5, 1937, in The Bronx, New York, Mastrangelo grew up surrounded by music. He was raised in an apartment on the corner of 179th St. and Mapes Ave., where he developed his passion for singing and drumming. Before joining The Belmonts, Mastrangelo played drums with several local groups, honing his skills and preparing for his future success.
In the late 1950s, Mastrangelo, along with Fred Milano, Angelo D'Aleo, and Dion DiMucci, formed The Belmonts. The group's harmonic sound and energetic performances quickly gained popularity, with hits like "I Wonder Why" and "Runaround Sue." Mastrangelo's deep bass voice added a unique dimension to the group's sound, making them one of the most distinctive and beloved doo-wop acts of the era.
After leaving The Belmonts in 1962, Mastrangelo embarked on a solo career, releasing four singles under the name Carlo on Laurie Records. Although his solo efforts didn't achieve the same level of success as his work with The Belmonts, Mastrangelo continued to pursue his passion for music. In the 1970s, he formed the progressive rock-jazz ensemble Pulse, which allowed him to explore new musical territories and express himself in different ways.
Mastrangelo's contributions to the world of doo-wop and progressive rock cannot be overstated. As a member of The Belmonts, he helped pave the way for future generations of vocal groups. His work with Pulse demonstrated his ability to adapt and evolve as an artist, pushing the boundaries of rock and jazz. Mastrangelo's legacy continues to inspire musicians and music enthusiasts alike, ensuring his place in the annals of music history.
Throughout his life, Mastrangelo remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He continued to perform and record music until his passing on April 4, 2016, at the age of 78. Despite the ups and downs of his career, Mastrangelo remained true to himself and his art, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
83 Years Old
Lead singer of the Teenagers, known for his smooth, soulful voice and hit songs like "Why Do Fools Fall in Love" and "Goody Goody" that helped define the sound of doo-wop.
97 Years Old
A rock 'n' roll pioneer who blended blues, R&B, and rock to create a unique sound, influencing many famous musicians with his innovative guitar playing and songwriting style.
87 Years Old
A legendary vocalist and songwriter behind iconic hits like "Stand by Me" and "There Goes My Baby", known for his smooth, soulful voice and timeless R&B classics.