A tribute to Johnny Maestro

Johnny Maestro’s music has lived on for decades. And now his musical legacy is in the accomplished hands of the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra, which honors the tenor who made rock ‘n roll history as the lead singer for the Crests, the Del-Satins and the Brooklyn Bridge. Join Maestro Louis Panacciulli and his Nassau Pops for a special tribute to Johnny Maestro at the orchestra’s 9th annual gala benefit concert for United Cerebral Palsy of Nassau County, on Sunday, Oct. 21, at 3 p.m.
Tommy Sullivan and the other original members of the Brooklyn Bridge – Jimmy Rosica, Joe Ruvio, Neal Ferraro, Mike Gregorio, and Carolyn Wood – are featured guests for an afternoon of beloved music and fond memories. The Del-Satins – Stan Zizka, Les Cauchi and Tommy Ferrara – also share the stage, as these classic groups reunite for a grand dose of nostalgia.
Maestro’s legacy stands the test of time. Whether you were around in the ‘50s when Johnny and the Crests recorded “16 Candles” or not, this particular song has remained an anthem for generations of teens reaching that special milestone. Maestro’s work with the Brooklyn Bridge has also added much to the history of rock ‘n roll and his Long Island connection (his last name is really Mastrangelo and he lived on Long Island for years) brings his international fame right to our doorstep.
“It’s very exciting to have these original Brooklyn Bridge members together at our concert,” said Panacciulli. “They haven’t played together in decades so this is something really special. Tommy is a friend of mine. When he heard about the concert that we do each year for UCPN he wanted to get involved. He put the band back together and here we are.”
Sullivan and the Brooklyn Bridge will perform those beloved sentimental old favorites, including “16 Candles,” “Step By Step,” “Blessed is the Rain,” “Six Nights a Week,” and of course, “Worst That Could Happen,” their big hit.