Julius La Rosa, born on February 2, 1930 in New York, was an American pop singer known for his hits in the 1950s. Raised in Brooklyn in an Italian-American family, La Rosa showed an early love for music and began singing at a young age.
After graduating from high school, La Rosa joined the United States Navy where he had the opportunity to perform with the military choir. It was during his time in the Navy that he caught the attention of his fellow officer George Andrews, who had connections in the entertainment industry.
Andrews introduced La Rosa to television and radio host Arthur Godfrey, who was impressed by La Rosa's talent and gave him a platform to showcase his music. La Rosa quickly became a regular performer on Godfrey's popular television variety show, where he gained recognition for his renditions of American standards.
La Rosa's appearance on Arthur Godfrey's show catapulted him to stardom, and he soon found himself signed to a recording contract. His 1953 recording of "Eh, Cumpari" became a major hit, solidifying his status as a rising star in the music industry.
Throughout the 1950s, La Rosa continued to release hit songs such as "Domani" and "Anywhere I Wander." His smooth voice and charismatic stage presence endeared him to audiences across the country, leading to numerous appearances on television and radio shows.
In addition to his music career, La Rosa also dabbled in acting, appearing in the 1958 film "Let's Rock" and making guest appearances on popular TV shows like The Honeymooners and Laverne & Shirley.
As the music industry evolved in the 1960s and 70s, La Rosa's career began to wane. However, he continued to perform live and record music, showcasing his timeless talent to loyal fans.
In the 1980s, La Rosa experienced a resurgence in popularity when he landed a recurring role on the popular soap opera Another World. His performance earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination, proving that his talent was as strong as ever.
Julius La Rosa passed away on May 12, 2016, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable performances. He will always be remembered as a true talent in the world of music.
Julius La Rosa's impact on the music industry will never be forgotten. His smooth voice and classic songs continue to inspire listeners around the world, solidifying his place in music history.