He was the youngest headliner at the casinos in Las Vegas, and as the years passed, he sang big band songs, rock and roll, and folk songs. He soon put more butts in the seats than Frank Sinatra had. And he still pushed himself to develop not only more avenues for himself, but for others too. Entertainment historians credit Darin for giving comedians like Richard Pryor, Nipsy Russell, and Flip Wilson their opportunities to become successful. And Darin is even given credit, at least partially, for the discovery of Wayne Newton.
He worked in movies and nearly got an Academy Award. His talent, from singing to entertaining to arranging to acting, was immense.
In his final years, Darin hosted his own show on television. Even though his health was failing, he had to be in front of an audience, doing what he did best: entertaining. He was often given oxygen before and after shows. In fact, after his last performance, which is on the DVD, he was rushed to the hospital emergency room for treatment.
If you only remember Bobby Darin as the guy who sang the rock and roll hit “Splish, Splash,” rent or pick up a copy of Bobby Darin: Seeing Is Believing to get a whole new take on him. The package is great to see him in action, to get a sense of the songs he covered, and the magic he brought to a room. He was a classy guy who never forgot his roots and always gave an audience what they came there to see.
Article comments
1 - Douglas A. Waltz
I don't know that I would have used the guy from Poison as a comparison to the intensity that Bobby Darin brought to the stage. Other than that, great article. I'm a big Darin fan as well.
2 - Lil Doozcoop
So glad that like those of us newer fans you've opened your ears, eyes and mind to Darin's magnetic allure. But you really need to see "Mack is Back", the DVD of Darin's final NBC unedited performance which he did nightclub style for his last show. This shows off Darin's command of folk and country as well as swing and blues. It also allows all the linking patter and comedy routines to come through so we appreciate the wit and charm of the man.
And you really need to hear his 2 Directions albums to appreciate what a fine songwriter and committed political activist he was.
Only then can you appreciate the true genius of this Rennaissance Man.
3 - carmen greene
I agree with everything what have been said about Bobby Darin. He is the greatest Legend that ever lived. There wad nobody like him, is or will be.
He induces every feeling that exist in the human heart and soul with such passion and truth, it is incredible. Thank you Bobby for the many joyful hours you provide for my life every single day.
A real GENIUS, much more then Sinatra and many others.
Carmen Greene
4 - sr
Thank you Mel. RIP Bobby. You were beyound greatest.
5 - Michael
Thank you for pointing out in your review what I think is one of the most important reasons Bobby Darin is so brilliant: He loved his work. And his love for performing is infectious. Watch him do his thing, and you feel like you're part of it. He truly is one of the greats, and should be mentioned right alongside Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Buddy Holly, and so many others, as an original and a legend.