The weekend will feature pre-show special appearances from some of the American Bandstand “regulars” on Friday May 3, including Ray Smith, Frank Spagnuola, Carmen Jimenez, Ivette Jimenez, Eddie Kelly, Diane Iaquinto, Marlon Brown, Steve Colanero, Lou Denoble, Terri Denoble, Arlene Sullivan, and of course, “The Geator with the Heator,” Jerry Blavat.
Heard in every sock hop, car and malt shop, rock ‘n’ roll ruled the airwaves in the ‘50s and ‘60s—and Philly was at the center of the action. Teenagers cut the rug all over the city, rocking the bandstand and landing themselves on the Top 40 shows that would shape pop culture for years to come. American Bandstand, produced at 4548 Market Street in West Philadelphia and aired on what is now 6abc from 1952-1964, set the tone for this generation of teens.
Michael Krajewski’s original program celebrates the early years of Bandstand and rock ‘n’ roll in Philly. This love-letter program includes “At the Hop”, “The Twist”, and “Pretty Little Angel Eyes”. It will also feature a tribute to Bobby Rydell, Frankie Avalon, and Fabian — and the moment in time when Philly was the POP center of the world. The Doo Wop Project performs these hits from the Philly years with their unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence.