Francis Thomas Avallone was born in South Philadelphia and started his musical career playing the trumpet. He was soon inspired to seek a musical career by the success of another South Philadelphian, James Darren. Frankie joined a rock ‘n roll band which featured yet another future star on drums,
 
Bobby Rydell.
 
With his first recording in 1958. “Dede Dinah”, he was well on his way, propelled by appearances on American Bandstand.
 
The “big” hit came in 1959 with “Venus”and then more fame came his way on the west coast with a string of successful films.

With over 30 motion picture credits to his name, Frankie has starred in such films as “Grease”, “Beach Blanket Bingo”, “The Alamo” and “The Take.” Born in 1940, Frankie Avalon and his wife of 25 years, Kay, have eight children and much sentimental attachment to Philadelphia.