Tommy DeVito: The Founding Father of The Four Seasons

As one of the most iconic figures in American music, Tommy DeVito is best known as the founding member, vocalist, and lead guitarist of the legendary rock band, The Four Seasons. With a career spanning over six decades, DeVito's contributions to the music industry are nothing short of phenomenal, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock 'n' roll.

Early Life and the Formation of The Four Seasons

Born on June 19, 1928, in Belleville, New Jersey, to an Italian-American family, DeVito was the youngest of nine children. His love for music began at a tender age, teaching himself to play the guitar by listening to country music on the radio at just eight years old. By 12, he was performing in neighborhood taverns, and by 16, he had formed his own R&B band, earning a decent income.

DeVito's musical journey took a significant turn in the early 1950s when he formed The Variety Trio with his brother Nick DeVito and Hank Majewski. The group underwent several name changes and lineup shifts, eventually becoming The Variatones in 1954 with the addition of Francis Castelluccio, later known as Frankie Valli.

Rise to Fame and The Four Lovers

In 1956, The Variatones signed with RCA Victor, marking the beginning of their journey as The Four Lovers. The quartet, consisting of DeVito, Valli, Majewski, and DeVito's brother, Nick, released seven singles and one album under this name. Their debut single, "You're the Apple of My Eye," earned them a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and their first national television appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

• In 1960, The Four Lovers underwent another transformation, with DeVito, Valli, and new members Bob Gaudio and Nick Massi coming together to form The Four Seasons.
• This iconic lineup would go on to produce some of the most beloved hits of the 1960s, including "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," and "Walk Like a Man."

Awards and Legacy

DeVito's contributions to The Four Seasons earned him numerous accolades, including:

• Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990
• A Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for "December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)" in 1976
• A place in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1999

Tommy DeVito's impact on the music industry extends far beyond his work with The Four Seasons. He has influenced generations of musicians, and his music continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.

Personal Life and Later Years

DeVito's personal life was marked by his close friendship with actor Joe Pesci, who introduced him to Bob Gaudio. He was also an honorary graduate of Belleville High School, which recognized his achievements in 2007.

DeVito's later years were marked by struggles with health issues and controversy surrounding the musical adaptation of The Four Seasons' story, "Jersey Boys." Despite this, his legacy as a founding member of The Four Seasons remains unwavering, cementing his place in the annals of music history.

Remembering Tommy DeVito

Tommy DeVito passed away on September 21, 2020, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come. His music, his style, and his spirit will forever be etched in the hearts of those who loved him and his music.

In the words of DeVito himself, "The music lives on, and that's what matters."