Written by: Victor Malone

Don Cornell: The Velvet-Voiced Crooner with a Golden Touch

Don Cornell, born Luigi Francisco Varlaro, was an American singer renowned for his smooth, velvety tone and impressive chart-topping hits that spanned over two decades. With twelve certified gold records between 1950 and 1962, Cornell's voice became synonymous with warmth, comfort, and nostalgia, earning him a permanent place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.

A Humble Beginning

Cornell was born on April 21, 1919, in the Bronx, New York, to an Italian family. He attended Roosevelt High School in the Bronx and began his musical journey playing guitar in a band led by jazz trumpeter Red Nichols during his teens. His early years were marked by a passion for music, which ultimately led him to become a vocalist in the Sammy Kaye band at the tender age of eighteen.

Rise to Fame

In 1949, Cornell embarked on a solo career, which proved to be a wise decision. His unique voice and style quickly gained popularity, and he soon found himself rubbing shoulders with the likes of Perry Como, Jackie Gleason, and Arthur Godfrey on various television programs. His chart-topping hits, including "It Isn't Fair," "I'll Walk Alone," "I'm Yours," and "Hold My Hand," solidified his position as a leading crooner of the 1950s and 1960s.

A Diversified Career

Cornell's talent extended beyond music. He was a frequent guest on television programs, including the Ruth Lyons show, and even hosted a radio program on KGO in San Francisco in 1953. In 1959, he co-founded The Big Daddy Mining Company, which aimed to mine a rich gold vein in Coarsegold, California.

Legacy and Honors

Cornell's contributions to the music industry were recognized with numerous awards and honors. He was named to the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1963 and inducted into the Big Band Hall of Fame in 1993. His 1952 hit "I" holds a unique record as the only single-character pop chart entry until Prince's "7" in 1992, and the only single-letter hit until Xzibit's "X" in 2000.

A Lasting Impact

Don Cornell's legacy extends beyond his impressive chart records and awards. His music has been a source of comfort andjoy for generations of music lovers. He continued to sing and perform until the 1990s, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire new artists and audiences alike.

Interesting Facts

• Cornell's 1954 hit "Hold My Hand" sold over one million copies and topped the UK Singles Chart.
• His 1955 hit "Young Abe Lincoln" holds the record for the highest debuting pop single to spend only one week on the Billboard chart.
• Cornell and his wife founded the label Iris as a division of MCA to release songs he recorded for Coral and Dot earlier in his career.

Don Cornell's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and passion. His music continues to captivate audiences, and his legacy remains an inspiration to aspiring artists and music lovers alike.