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Tony Orlando shares the news that he will be honored at the Grand Ole Opry with a Lifetime Achievement Icon Award, a milestone he views as a profound blessing in his career. The conversation transitions into a masterclass on the emotional power of lyrics, where Orlando argues that a song's longevity depends on its poetry and its ability to resonate deeply with female listeners. He highlights Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life" as the ultimate example of this lyrical impact, noting its historic ten-week run at number one and its dual identity as both a pop hit and a religious anthem.
Tony Orlando and his brother David celebrate the longest-running number one hits in music history. They feature chart-topping classics from icons like Elvis Presley, The Beatles and The Bee Gees, while sharing personal stories and reflections on the songs and artists that defined generations.
He Could Become Anyone on Stage. What Was He Hiding Offstage?Danny Gans was the Man of Many Voices, the highest-paid headliner on the Las Vegas Strip, and the first performer to sell a $100 ticket on the Strip. He could become almost anyone on stage. Privately, he carried a pain he kept hidden. In Voices: The Danny Gans Story, his son Andrew Davies Gans sets out to tell that whole story, the legend and the man, in his directorial debut.In Episode 280, Christian Taylor sits down with director and producer Andrew Davies Gans to talk about the documentary he made about his father. Andrew shares how a baseball injury and his father's death in the same month set him on the path to filmmaking, why he chose to put himself and his family inside the frame, and how the film became a search for the truth about Danny's chronic pain and the legacy he left behind.The conversation traces a three-generation pattern of athletic dreams cut short and lives reinvented in entertainment, from Danny's father singing in the Catskills to Danny's rise from a severed Achilles to the top of the Strip. Andrew talks about comedian Louie Anderson's advice to tell the story the hard way, the Scent of a Woman speech that became one of the film's most powerful edits, and the decision to show his father's chronic pain honestly rather than hide it. It is a conversation about grief, fatherhood, and what we owe the people who came before us.In this episode, you'll learn:How Danny Gans went from a minor league baseball career to becoming the Man of Many Voices in Las VegasWhy three generations of the Gans family traded athletic dreams for lives on stageHow Danny Gans became the first performer to sell a $100 ticket on the Las Vegas StripWhat it takes to direct your first documentary about your own fatherWhy Andrew Davies Gans chose to put himself and his family inside the filmWhat comedian Louie Anderson taught Andrew about telling a story the hard wayHow the Scent of a Woman speech became one of the film's most powerful momentsWhy Andrew decided to tell the truth about his father's struggle with chronic painHow an editor earned a writing credit in the documentary edit roomWhat a three-and-a-half-hour first cut taught Andrew about finding the real filmChapters0:00 Losing his father and his baseball dream in the same month2:09 From a Major League dream to filmmaking: a son finds his father's story5:34 Three generations of dreamers: the grandfather, the Catskills, and a family that reinvents itself7:22 The White Sox draft, a severed Achilles, and Danny's rise to the Man of Many Voices10:54 Why Andrew made the film: a 10th anniversary, a teaser, and a COVID shutdown14:17 Trailer: Voices: The Danny Gans Story, the $100 ticket legend, and a word from Virgil Films18:27 Rebuilding after COVID, and becoming a father mid-production20:42 Choosing vulnerability: the decision to put himself in the film22:57 Louie Anderson and the choice to tell the story the hard way26:30 The hardest truth: the Al Pacino 'Scent of a Woman' edit, chronic pain, and one of millions35:20 First-time filmmaking lessons: why you shouldn't be 100% prepared38:16 Inside the edit room: movie magic and a writing credit for the editor41:48 The Vegas voices: Tony Orlando, Donny Osmond, and Steve Wynn48:37 What's next: narrative films, the festival run, and distribution52:37 DocuView Déjà Vu: Shuffle and Searching for Sugar ManFrequently Asked QuestionsWho was Danny Gans?Danny Gans was a singer, actor, and impressionist billed as The Man of Many Voices. He was named Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year roughly a dozen times and was the first performer to sell a $100 ticket on the Las Vegas Strip, headlining sold-out shows for years at the Mirage and the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas. A former minor league baseball player, he turned to entertainment after a career-ending injury.How did Danny Gans die?Danny Gans died on May 1, 2009, at age 52, in his sleep at his home in Henderson, Nevada. The Clark County coroner ruled the death accidental, caused by a toxic reaction to the prescription painkiller hydromorphone, which Gans took for chronic pain syndrome. Underlying heart disease and a blood disorder were contributing factors. The coroner stated clearly that this was not a case of drug abuse.What is Voices: The Danny Gans Story about?Voices: The Danny Gans Story is a documentary directed by Danny's son, Andrew Davies Gans, in his directorial debut. It traces Danny's improbable rise from a baseball injury to Las Vegas stardom, then becomes a personal account as Andrew searches for the truth about his father's hidden struggle with chronic pain. The film is as much about grief, fatherhood, and legacy as it is about a legendary career.Who directed the Danny Gans documentary?The documentary was directed by Andrew Davies Gans, Danny Gans's son, in his directorial debut after producing roughly a dozen films. Andrew appears in the film himself, wrestling on camera with how much of his father's private life to reveal. That decision becomes a central thread in the second half of the movie.Where can I watch Voices: The Danny Gans Story?Voices: The Danny Gans Story premiered in June 2025 at Dances with Films at the TCL Chinese Theatre and went on to screen at festivals including the Austin Film Festival, along with additional special screenings. At the time of this conversation, a wider distribution deal was being finalized. Check the film's official channels for the latest on where to watch.DocuView Déjà Vu PicksShuffle, a documentary about fraud in the drug rehabilitation industry (not yet released at the time of recording)Searching for Sugar Man, the documentary about musician Sixto RodriguezSponsored by Virgil Films EntertainmentThis episode is sponsored by Virgil Films Entertainment, with over 25 years of distribution experience and a catalog that includes Super Size Me, the Oscar-nominated Restrepo, and Forks Over Knives. Learn more at https://virgilfilms.com.About Andrew Davies GansAndrew Davies Gans is a film director and producer based in Los Angeles, and the founder of Glanzrock Productions. Voices: The Danny Gans Story is his directorial debut, following a career producing roughly a dozen films. A drafted baseball player whose career ended in injury, he turned to acting, then screenwriting, then producing, before stepping behind the camera to tell his father's story.Find Andrew Davies Gans and Glanzrock Productions:Website: https://glanzrock.productionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gans_andrewLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-davies-gansGlanzrock Productions on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Glanzrock-Productions-100063642647635/About Danny GansDanny Gans was a Las Vegas singer, actor, and impressionist known as The Man of Many Voices. He was named Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year roughly a dozen times and headlined sold-out theaters built for him at the Mirage and the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas. Known for a wholesome, faith-centered public image, he died in 2009 at the age of 52.About Documentary FirstDocumentary First is a weekly podcast about the craft, business, and truth of filmmaking, hosted by documentary filmmaker Christian Taylor. Each episode is a conversation with someone who holds another piece of the filmmaking puzzle, from first-time directors to Emmy and Peabody winners. Christian Taylor is a documentary filmmaker (The Girl Who Wore Freedom), actor, voice actor, and podcast host. Learn more at https://documentaryfirst.com.Resources MentionedVoices: The Danny Gans Story (IMDb):
Tony Orlando takes listeners on a musical journey through the sun, moon, and stars. He features songs inspired by the cosmos from legendary artists including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder.
Cousin Brucie and Tony Orlando reflect on their enduring careers and the nature of resilience within the entertainment industry. The conversation centers on a rebuke of critics and "naysayers" who frequently predicted that rock and roll, and the artists themselves, would be short-lived, only to be proven wrong by the performers' decades of success. The dialogue transitions into a tribute to their fellow industry legends, specifically highlighting Frankie Valli's decision to take a hiatus for his health after sixty-five years of performing.
Tony Orlando spotlights legendary artists who overcame harsh criticism and negative reviews early in their careers. He features music from icons like Led Zeppelin, Queen, and Madonna.
Tony Orlando and his brother David present some of the most identifiable voices in the history of the record business. They showcase the unique styles of legendary artists like Joe Cocker, Etta James and Sam Cooke, and discuss how musicians like Michael Jackson and Steve Perry drew inspiration from them.
National Coconut Cream Pie Day. Entertainment from 1975, 1st roller coaster with a loop, 16 year old takes NYC subway train for a ride, Little Caesars Pizza founded, Coca Cola went on sale. Today birthdays - Harry S. Truman, Don Rickles, Ricky Nelson, Toni Tennille, Phillip Bailey, Alex Van Halen, Stephen Furst, Melissa Gilbert, Enrique Iglesias. Eddy Arnold died. (Best of 2024)Intro - Pour some sugar on me - Def Leppard defleppard.comCoconut cream pie song - Galt MacDermotHe don't love you - Tony Orlando & DawnShe's acting single - Gary StewardBirthdyas - In da club - 50Cent 50cent.comTravlin' man - Ricky NelsonLove will keep us together - Captian & TennileSeptember - Earth Wind & FireRunning with the devil - Van HalenHero - Enrique IglesiasI wanna play house with you - Eddy ArnoldExit - Its not love - Dokken - dokken.netHistory & Factoids about today Playlist on SpotifyHistory & Factoids about today webpagecooolmedia.comcountryundergroundradio.com
Say, what was on TV fifty years ago this week? Let's check our local listings and find out. Okay, the answer is: Lots of sitcoms, lots of variety shows, and about 6,000 detective shows. But as we go through the week, we'll also find: Weird cartoons about Noah's Ark and the Easter Bunny! Carl Reiner as an angel who grants wishes! Joanie loves Potsie! Gerald Ford loves truckers! A pilot about pilots! Helen Hunt is shipwrecked! Tony Orlando meets the cast of Hee Haw! Gilbert Gottfried meets Bea Arthur! Bob Newhart meets the Winter Warlock! And much more Bicentennial television weirdness! If your all-time favorite shows are Jigsaw John, The Blue Knight, and Bronk, this was your week. The Flopcast website! The ESO Network! The Flopcast on Facebook! The Flopcast on Instagram! The Flopcast on Bluesky! The Flopcast on Mastadon! Please rate and review The Flopcast on Apple Podcasts! Email: info@flopcast.net Our music is by The Sponge Awareness Foundation! This week's promo: The Watch-A-Thon of Rassilon!
Today is Good Friday. Entertainment from 2014. The Pony Express began, Unabomber was caught, TV Guide went on sale. Todays birthdays -Marlon Brando , Jan Berry, Billy Joe Royal, Wayne Newton, Tony Orlando, Alec Baldwin, David Hyde Pierce, Eddie Murphy, Sebastian Bach, Jennie GarthIntro - God did good - Dianna Corcoran https://www.diannacorcoran.com/Happy - Pharrell WilliamsThis is how we roll - Florida Georgia Line Luke BryanBirthdays - In da club - 50 Cent https://www.50cent.com/Surf City - Jan & DeanDown in the boondocks - Billy Joe RoyalDanka Schoen - Wayne NewtonTie a yellow ribbon round the old oak tree - Tony Orlando & DawnParty all the time - Eddie MurphyYouth gone wild - Skid RowExit - Good One - Donny Lee https://www.donnyleemusic.com/History & Factoids about today Playlist on SpotifyHistory & Factoids about today webpagecooolmedia.comcountryundergroundradio.com
Singer, songwriter and music executive Tony Orlando joins Frank Mackay on this episode of The Frank Mackay Show!
Cousin Brucie welcomes Joe Piscopo to announce a new programming shift at WABC, where the two will now be neighboring hosts. The conversation serves as a professional passing of the torch, as Piscopo prepares to launch a late-night Sinatra-themed showcase played exclusively on live vinyl to replace Tony Orlando's local time slot. Their dialogue highlights a deep mutual admiration for "old school" showmanship and the enduring legacy of classic radio, characterized by hard work and high-energy performance.
Cousin Brucie celebrates Tony Orlando's five-year milestone at WABC while discussing the legendary singer's transition to the Red Apple Network. Their dialogue highlights a deep, lifelong friendship rooted in the golden age of music, emphasizing that Orlando's impact on radio stems from touching the hearts of listeners across generations rather than just playing hits. Orlando reflects on his storied career—spanning decades of chart-topping success and high-level industry roles—to explain his shift toward a new storytelling tour and his upcoming show, "Rocking the Decades."
Tony Orlando plays the best of yacht rock. He plays the most iconic tracks, weaving together lyrical excerpts and personal anecdotes from artists like Lionel Richie, Kenny Loggins, and Toto.
Legendary DJ Cousin Brucie has entertainer Tony Orlando, call in to discuss his active schedule and deep industry connections. Orlando highlights his upcoming tribute to Arty Butler, a prolific arranger for stars like Louis Armstrong and Barry Manilow, while also promoting a story-telling performance in Long Island where he reflects on his decades-long career. The dialogue emphasizes a theme of remembrance as the two icons honor recently deceased musicians and consider collaborating on an annual memorial broadcast.
Tony Orlando hosts a deeply personal memorial tribute to four recently deceased icons of the music industry. Through a blend of intimate storytelling and career-spanning hits, Orlando honors the legacies of Chuck Negron of Three Dog Night, Lamont McLemore of the Fifth Dimension, David Brigatti of the Rascals, and the prolific singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka. The program features exclusive heartfelt testimonials from fellow stars like Paul Stanley and Florence LaRue, who offer firsthand accounts of the talent and character of the departed artists. By weaving together iconic musical performances with his own nostalgic reflections on the "hungry years" of the 1960s, Orlando serves as an expert guide through a golden era of American pop, transforming a somber occasion into a vibrant celebration of artistic influence.
Tony Orlando reflects on his storied career and the enduring power of musical friendship. Orlando shares personal anecdotes about his close bond with Johnny Cash, illustrating their mutual respect through humorous tales of pranks involving sour fruit and spicy food. The conversation shifts to Orlando's transition from retirement back to the stage for a new storytelling tour, a move driven by his deep desire to reconnect with the audiences he has missed. Finally, Orlando promotes a special broadcast honoring "Heart and Soul," a documentary by Kenny Vance that celebrates the Doo-wop roots of rock and roll and the lasting legacy of the artists who shaped the New York music scene.
New Hampshire Unscripted talks with the performance arts movers and shakers
Celebrating, yes CELEBRATING, 80yrs of community radio! WKXL is happy to once again post the latest NH Podcast Oldies Monday baby! Finally RAY RETURNS (complete with his bell bottoms and platform shoes while kicking back on his waterbed) to WKXL's NH Unscripted! Thrilling the NH Arts Community once again with something a little different. That's right this is not a drill, Ray is back (and he's snagging his now stretched out nehru jacket from Andrew) AND for the arts and culture folks he's got some golden oldies and a little catching up in this episode of the Wayback Machine Oldies Music Monday with hits from Jimmy Dean, Tony Orlando, Skeeter Davis, and many more! Wanna listen? Do ya huh? Do ya?
RAY RETURNS to NH Unscripted! That's right this is not a drill, Ray is back and he's got some oldies and a little catching up with hits from Jimmy Dean, Tony Orlando, Skeeter Davis, and many more!
Tony Orlando reflects on the creative synergy of Las Vegas, specifically praising a collaborative show by Criss Angel and Alice Cooper, while also paying a poignant tribute to the late Neil Sedaka by recounting a visit to his memorial. The conversation transitions into the cultural history of Brooklyn, pondering the "magic" in the local environment that produced a disproportionate number of musical icons.
Tony Orlando centers today's program on the profound value of friendship. Through a carefully curated selection of iconic songs by artists like the Beatles, Queen, and Bill Withers, Orlando explores how music serves as a universal language of support and connection. A structural highlight of the show is an intimate interview with John Sebastian, where the two veterans discuss the craft of songwriting and the vibrant New York folk scene of the 1960s.
Gianni and Jeanie interview Tony Orlando, who recounts knowing Russo since around 1980 and praises Russo's legendary storytelling and Las Vegas speakeasy era. Russo shares stories from his youth, including selling ballpoint pens after polio and meeting Frank Costello, plus his real-estate connection to O.J. Simpson's Rockingham house. Orlando and Russo discuss shared connections to John Catsimatidis and the Copacabana, where Orlando says his uncle Carmine Fava was maitre d' and where Orlando witnessed performers while underage. Orlando tells personal stories involving Crazy Joe Gallo (including being invited to Gallo's home and seeing a pet lion), his early hit at 16 (“Halfway to Paradise” written by Carole King), and friendships with major entertainers. Orlando describes working at CBS with Clive Davis as a vice president, signing artists like Barry Manilow, and later achieving major success with Tony Orlando and Dawn, including “Tie a Yellow Ribbon,” a TV show watched by 36 million weekly, and a Phyllis Diller on-air moment where her wig came off. He shares multiple Frank Sinatra anecdotes, including Sinatra correcting his diction, recording “Tie a Yellow Ribbon” for John Wayne, arranging a star-studded Friars Club event honoring Gene Kelly, and a Caesars Palace night when Sinatra learned his mother's plane had crashed. Orlando explains he retired from touring concerts due to travel and overhead but is launching a storytelling show and considering a book or audio format; he also notes work for eight presidents and other career highlights. The conversation ends with Russo promoting upcoming New Jersey appearances and book signings, and Orlando describing his WABC radio show and longtime veterans charity work through his Tribute to Valor Foundation, which brings Medal of Honor recipients to schools and has reached about 100,000 students.
Cousin Brucie and Tony Orlando share a heartfelt conversation following the sudden passing of Neil Sedaka. The dialogue serves as a tribute to Sedaka's legacy, weaving together personal anecdotes of their shared upbringing in Brooklyn and their early years in the music industry. Orlando emphasizes Sedaka's artistic genius and humble nature, highlighting specific works like "The Hungry Years" to illustrate the singer's profound lyrical depth.
Tony Orlando gives the best hits of the last 50 years to finish your February.
Tony Orlando presents an extensive tribute to Barry Mann, whom he celebrates as the "miracle man" of American popular music. The program serves a dual purpose: it honors Mann's legendary career as a prolific songwriter behind classics like "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" and "On Broadway," while also championing his overlooked talent as a vocalist and performer. Orlando structures the show around a unique "experiment" where he plays original demos—Mann's raw, initial recordings—alongside the famous hits they eventually became for stars like Dolly Parton and James Ingram. Through a heartfelt interview with Mann and testimonials from producer Brooks Arthur, the broadcast highlights the collaborative partnership between Mann and his wife, lyricist Cynthia Weil, framing their work as the enduring soundtrack of American life.
Cousin Brucie and singer Tony Orlando celebrate Valentine's Day by sharing stories of romance, family, and lifelong friendship. Their conversation highlights the unique cultural identity of New York, specifically through a humorous debate over why the city's water makes its pizza and deli food superior to that of California or London. Orlando discusses his holiday traditions and the personal significance of his hit cover of "Cupid," which he dedicates to the host and all long-term couples.
Tony Orlando presents a themed musical journey centered on a "numbers game" where every featured track contains a digit or numerical reference in its title. The program operates as a nostalgic retrospective, blending live commentary with iconic hits from various eras, ranging from the classic harmonies of The Beatles and The Four Seasons to contemporary stars like Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber. Beyond the entertainment value of the music, Orlando uses the broadcast to explore the enduring legacy of these records, sharing personal anecdotes about fellow artists and emphasizing the importance of remaining open to diverse musical genres across the decades.
Tony Orlando provides an intimate retrospective of his career through a special program titled "Before and After Dawn." Accompanied by his brother and co-host David, Orlando explores his professional origins as a sixteen-year-old protege of Carole King, recounting the creation of his earliest 1961 hits and the profound influence of iconic songwriters and producers. The narrative highlights the singer's transition from a young teen idol to a seasoned solo artist, featuring diverse musical performances that range from soulful ballads to high-energy disco and R&B collaborations.
Tony Orlando presents a themed musical journey centered on the concepts of searching for love and the human pursuit of a better life. The program follows a structured flow of classic rock, country, and pop hits, interspersed with Orlando's personal anecdotes about legendary collaborators like Carol King and the production duo Leiber and Stoller. By weaving together performances from diverse artists such as Barry Manilow, Taylor Swift, and Frank Sinatra, the show serves as a tribute to the history of rock and roll and the enduring power of melody.
National hot chocolate day. Entertainment from 1971. 1st VD clinic, Only US soldier executed for desertion in WW2, Ham the Astro Chimp goes into space, Scotch tape went on sale1st US satalite launched into space. Todays birthdays - Carol Channing, Suzanne Pleshette, Harry Casey (KC), Johnny Rotten, Kelly Lynch, Minnie Driver, Kerry Washington, Justin Timberlake, Tyler Hubbard, Marcus Mumford. A.A. Milne died. (2025)Intro - Pour some sugar on me - Def Leppard http://defleppard.com/Hot Chocolate - Janess SifersKnock three times - Tony Orlando & DawnJoshua - Dolly PartonBirthdays - In da club - 50 Cent http://50cent.com/Diamonds are a girls best friend - Carol ChanningThe Bob Newart TV themeShake, Shake, Shake - KC & the Sunshine BandGod save the queen - Sex PistolsInvisible girl - Minnie DriverCan't stop the feeling - Justin TimberlakeI'll take you there - Justin TimberlakeDancin' in the country - Tyler hubbardI will wait - Mumford & sonsExit - Its not love - Dokken http://dokken.net/
Cousin Brucie and singer Tony Orlando explore the centrality of "heart" in both live performance and broadcasting. Orlando credits his mentor for teaching him that genuine emotional connection is more vital than technical polish, noting that his transition into radio allows him to maintain a sincere bond with his audience during retirement. The conversation pivots to a tribute to Neil Diamond, with Orlando announcing a special broadcast dedicated to Diamond's musical legacy and the new film A Song Sung Blue.
On this episode of the WiseKracks Podcast, pro sports bettor Bill “Krackman” Krackomberger is joined by Jon Orlando for another wide-ranging conversation packed with gambling stories, casino news, and sports betting insight.The guys kick things off by recapping a memorable dinner with Jon's dad — legendary musician Tony Orlando — and share behind-the-scenes stories you won't hear anywhere else. They also discuss the Arkansas lottery winner making headlines, news surrounding Barry Manilow's cancer diagnosis, and break down another wild parlay posted on the WagerWire site.The conversation continues with a deep dive into casinos carrying massive debt, the bizarre Hard Rock Bristol police VIP lawsuit incident, and plenty more real-world gambling and casino stories along the way.To close out the show, Randy Lee McKay joins the podcast to hand out picks and betting insight for NFL Week 18 and college football, helping you get ready for the final stretch of the season.Whether you're here for sports betting, casino news, legendary stories, or sharp picks — this episode has it all.
Cousin Brucie engages in a nostalgic conversation with musician Tony Orlando, weaving together themes of musical legacy and personal history.
Tony Orlando gives you the best hit songs of the last few decades to wrap up 2025.
Tony Orlando comes on to preview his show
Tony Orlando showcases the best holiday music from the past half-century.
Tony Orlando comes on to talk about some hit songs from the era.
Tony Orlando gives you the best hits over the decades to cap off your Saturday night.
Tony Orlando comes on talk about his favorite Frank Sinatra stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony Orlando comes on to introduce a song to Brucie.
Legendary singer Tony Orlando finishes your Saturday night with two hours of tunes.
Tony Orlando goes through the biggest hits throughout the decades.
Tony Orlando comes on to talk with Brucie an hour before his own show comes on.
Musical icon Tony Orlando gives you two hours of iconic tunes to cap off your Saturday night.
In this week's episode of The Chazz Palminteri Show, I sit down with the legendary Tony Orlando, whose voice and charisma defined an era of American music. From his timeless hits like “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” and “Knock Three Times,” to his incredible career as a singer, songwriter, producer, and television host, Tony shares his life journey through music, family, and perseverance. We talk about: Tony's early rise in the music industry and how Dawn became a household name The stories behind his biggest hits and how they shaped pop culture What it was like navigating fame across seven decades of show business The importance of faith, humility, and gratitude in staying grounded Our shared Bronx roots, performing for generations, and the joy of connecting with fans This episode is filled with laughter, wisdom, and inspiration from one of the most enduring voices in music history.