The name Sinatra evokes an instant, indelible image of him in a fedora with a cigarette and an adult beverage. Long before names like Presley, Dylan, Prince, Jackson, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift, he was among the first popular musical superstars. From Dorsey and the bobbysoxers to the saloons and concert houses around the world, he infused his music with intimate personal emotion. He did, indeed, have The World On A String! Aided by evolving technology, his amazing career stretched from the 30s through the 90s - from singles to albums, LPs, CDs, movies, TV, concerts, nightclubs, and performances around the world. Even in legendary Hollywood, his life story is almost unimaginable: four wives, innumerable dalliances and affairs, the Rat Pack, relationships with Presidents of both parties, friends in the Mob, and numerous public brawls intermingled with countless acts of private philanthropy and kindness. We’ll listen to the music, see some clips, and weave in the best parts of the rest of his story as we recreate a picture of the first multi-media celebrity whose personal identity became as important to his fans as his stardom! Our goal will be to Fly You To The Moon!

This course will combine lecture with class discussions.