Rick Michel's Blog

Two Important Influences in Frank Sinatra's Life

No great performer is able to rise to the top without a network of friends, family, colleges, and mentors who support their talents. Frank Sinatra knew a myriad of people who helped him gain the confidence to follow his passions and become one of the most recognizable performers in history. Bing Crosby and Billie Holiday were two major influences on Sinatra's life and career.

Bing Crosby

Frank Sinatra was definitely inspired by watching Bing Crosby's performances. However, many people are surprised to learn that Crosby offered direct advice to Sinatra in 1943, by writing an open letter to the younger performer and having it published in the Motion Picture Hollywood Magazine. In his letter, he dispels the attempts by the media to drum up a feud between the two legendary singers. He praises Sinatra and then advises him to never forget his audience. Crosby holds his fans in the highest regard, knowing that his success wouldn't be possible without the support of the public. If you get a chance to read Bing's letter to Sinatra, it's full of passionate advice that any entertainer should take to heart.

Billie Holiday

This iconic female jazz singer began her career in Harlem night clubs, quickly rising to fame as she appeared in Duke Ellington's musical short, Symphony in Black: A Rhapsody of Negro Life. She astonished Sinatra with her musical performances, and he sat in awe at a New York club, learning about the value of raw emotion in song. Sinatra respected Lady Day for the rest of her life, even going to see Holiday on her deathbed, as she suffered from cirrhosis. He was deeply affected by her death, locking himself away from friends and family for two days in mourning.