/ qtv The legendary singer, songwriter and producer sat down with Jian looking back at his career with the 'Four Seasons' and being one of the 'Jersey Boys'.
One hell of an intelligent individual Bob Gaudio is!!!! The Four Seasons are one hell of a band who put out some great music and will soon approach their 60th anniversary. One of the first bands to write, play their own instruments and own the rights to their name and music.
Let me tell you as singer/songwriter myself, Bob is more than just a great songwriter, He's a fantastic 1st tenor. I just happened to stumble across a video of "Rag Doll", & here's Bob Gaudio singing 1st tenor harmony with the guy I always thought was the best 1st tenor ever, Franki Valli. The lyrics were great, but the vocals & the harmony was what made the 4 seasons.
I stumbled on the movie and had no idea what it was about...the movie literally took to such a happy place. I was a 70s kid an d had no idea how many songs they had!! Now I'm searching the web for more cause the m Ovid left me wanting more
Knew him for awhile, growing up in the Bronx. Both our families moved to New Jersey, at different times, and we bumped into each other again, in Bergenfield, N.J. Me working in my brothers pastry shop! Bobbie stopping in with his Dad to buy some delicious Italian Pastries!! Very Nice Family, the best! Joked with his Dad!
I once was taken yo Mr Gaudios house to meet him by frankies brother bobby who I played with in a band when I was 18yr. Bob was very gracious, though I was awe struck and unable to converse
Ive been listening to alot of interviews about the Four Seasons lately, and i feel bad because i have not as yet mentioned that i do believe that Bob Gaudio is a very talented songwriter and musician. It was the combination of Bobs songs, Frankie and the other two members all put together that created this magical bunch of hit songs for the group. Bob Gaudio is definitely a genious as far as im concerned. Thank you so much for your contribution to the music world.🎹🎵🎶
I can understand how Bob Gaudio would be miffed by Rolling Stone not including one song that he wrote in the 500 greatest songs list. Walk Like a Man surely should have been on that list. Big Girls Don't Cry and Let's Hang On also would be worthy of being on that list. I grew up listening to the Four Seasons. Yeah, I did the hippie thing and got into hard rock and all that but the music of the Four Seasons were a big part of my life in the early to mid 60's. Sherry was the first 45 rpm record that I ever bought. I loved the Beatles and the subsequent British Invasion but I'll always have fond memories of my youth listening to the Four Seasons. Thank you Bob Gaudio for composing such memorable songs and enhancing my memories.
Rolling Stone is a communist magazine and the man who controls the magazine does not like America and was more interested in trying to downplay American culture. Rolling stone loves everything British and anything that is anti American.
I was blessed to see Jersey Boys in Chicago .. just wow , was it ever good . I love Fallen Angel knowing the story behind it 😢. I’m so glad I’ve lived through all of the great music and talent.. I’m 68..
BOB GAUDIO wherever you are while we are on COVD19 lockdown - THANK YOU!!!! PS - While at college in the 1970's, younger students were singing "Short Shorts" in response to the warm weather attire of some females.
The Four Seasons were great and Bob is one of the best songwriters of all time. Without the Four Seasons you don’t have Weezer.....their way of beautifully mastering the 2:00 minute pop song and making it a timeless treasure is something not many people can lay acclaim to.
What Mr. Gaudio says is so true, I never understood why others didn't love Franki and the 4 Seasons the way that I did. LIke who cared the Beatles were going to be on Ed Sullivan, I want to see the 4 Seasons - again and again and again!
The Four Seasons were one talented American Band and I hold them in the highest regard as others hold The Beach Boys and The Beatles, whom I also collect and enjoy their music very much. The Four Seasons due to their criminal backgrounds in a way chose not to be in the limelight at all time but preferred a much lower profile which hurt their exposure. Imagine had The Beach Boys first come out with THREE NUMBER ONE ☝️ hit records in a row as The Four Seasons did, they would have been the greatest thing ever. While The Beach Boys were barely enjoy their success with their first number one ☝️ hit, the Four Seasons were on their Fourth number one ☝️ hit record. Prior to the Beatles arrival the Four Seasons were this county’s number one Band while still hitting the charts throughout the 1960’s and 70’s. I hope I don’t verbally get beat up for this comment regarding the Four Seasons, because I usually do, but I will always stand up for this American Band as others stand up for theirs. Take care and be well.
I hope that Bob Gaudio and the Four Seasons get some recognition for the work they did on the "Genuine Imitation Life Gazzette." This album is usually not discussed in interviews, but it was a work of genius that was never given the repect by the music community when it was released, but today it is considered a "lost music masterpiece." It is time for this great piece of work to be looked at once again!
I have a great story that goes with this!! In 1997, we had the honor of meeting Frankie Valli after his performance at the Friar Tuck Inn in Upstate NY. I have a photo of him signing our LP with my wife. I told him how much we love his work. While he was autographing, I said to him: "Frankie, we love the hits, but one of my favorite LPs is 'Genuine Life Gazette' (sic). 'Mrs. Stately's Garden' is my favorite." He looked at me, pulled the glasses down on his nose, smiled and just stared at me for 4 or 5 seconds. It was as if he was saying, "OMG, You really ARE a serious fan..."
Great interview. Bob Gaudio is such an incredible talent. Love so many of his songs which didn't even hit it big. Beautiful, melodic stuff (i.e., The Proud One, September Rain, To Give, etc.) I totally agree about RS. I was shocked not to see Nights in White Satin (I'm a big Moody Blues fan) or any Four Seasons or Frankie Valli singles- Can't Take My Eyes Off You at a minimum should have been on that list. Ridiculous.
although i was born in 1980, i grew up on franki valli and the four seasons, paul anka and the likes, and i absolutely love franki valli and the 4 seasons, thank you guys for some of the best memories i have with my dad whos passed away now
I was 10 growing up in NYC when Cherry was a hit, & it's so amazing to fast forward & listen to Mr Gaudio reflect on some of that journey. I suppose after certain peaks & valleys & being able to maintain an incredible level of success, you really do understand a "gut feeling" syndrome you wouldn't know unless you were doing this for over 50 plus years. The Rolling Stone 500 exclusion comment was something is was unaware of. The magic & memories stapled to my heart that comes with The 4 Seasons is undeniable & forever. Btw, Jersey Boys eh? Bob, I thought you were from The Bronx ?? We love ya just the same. Long live The 4 Seasons !
Awe-some! This man is absolutely under rated. It took me seeing Jersey Boys before I realized his talent. I wish I was half the song writer he is/was. I think I will change my last name to Gaudio in his honor!... ha hah....
Hello Al, you are one very fortunate individual to have met Gaudio in a previous message and then to have played with Nick Massi, absolutely incredible and in complete awe.
I saw them play by accident at the Steel Pier in the Summer of 1967. By that time, my musical tastes really took off. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I grew up on the Four Seasons and always looked forward to the next hit. America had the Beach Boys and Four Seasons cranking out the hits for us before the Beatles became famous. Few groups had as many great songs as the Four Seasons did. Songs too like 'Just a Little Boy in Grown Up Clothes,' Marlena,' Big Man in Town,' etc. Great group.
Wow!!!! You mentioned some great songs by them that really are not brought up to often. Songs you mentioned are some of my favorites and were all chart hits, thank you.
Let’s NOT FORGET the credit due to late 1965 replacement awesome bassist and background singer Joe Long (Joe LaBracio). He continued contributing to the major hits including “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, and Tell It To The Rain”, and much more!
Very true ,Joe was on many hits ,was with the Seasons during the rebirth of the group in the 70s ,etc. Sadly ,he wasn't on the HOF list . I never really understood that. I was told that Frankie considered him an employee of the group. Not sure how true that is . As a fan ,I always considered him a Season.
I had the almost unbelievable privilege of hosting Bob and Judy for the Blue Man Group show at the Venetian. Jersey Boys had recently opened at the Bellagio. The Four Seasons have always been my absolute top favorite performers, and I have to disagree with Bob, up above - they absolutely DID have a following who bought everything they did... me. They were so gracious to this old fanboy, and Judy took a photo of Bob and me. HOW I envy you, Jian - I would love to have 16 minutes to hang with Bob. Thank you for this!
What a good interview, and interviewer. It was a pleasure watching this. Thanks. And yes, I remember when that, Rolling Stone Magazine Top 500 List, came out and not a single 4 Seasons song was on it. Being a big Seasons fan, I thought that was messed up. Although, I do remember, they did a Top 5 Hidden Gems Albums, and selected, 'Genuine Imitation Life', as one of them. They said, in their comment, that they had no respect for their kind of music but thought the 4 Seasons' attempt at psychedelia, a la the Beatles, was admirable and worth listening to. I bought the CD based on this recommendation and found it to be very good, albeit, not your proto typical 4 Seasons music.
The Genuine Imitation Life Gazette Album is a very good album and just about anyone who likes music should lend an ear to this album. It’s one of my favorite all time albums and more so because it showed how a Band can grow as they continue to produce commercial hits. I have the album on vinyl, cd, tape and streaming, I think that’s what it’s called and can listen to it anytime.
@rickcee The Seasons were all MASTER musicians who did their own recordings and played at their own concerts. Many of the Beach Boys recording were made with studio musicians. I heard both bands live and the Seasons win hands down as singers and musicians, not to take anything away from the Beach Boys using your logic.
His name is Jian Gomeshi. He is a great interviewer who unfortunately fell into disgrace and was fired from his job for some terrible decisions in his personal life, a la Weinstein. While I despise that part of his story, I always loved listening to him.
@@patticakes39 So sad. Hope he recovers. You know we really need to remember that even God forgives past repented mistakes. This nation has lately chosen to play God.
@@patticakes39 It was unfortunate the way things turned out with Jian. He obviously had some terrable character flaws to behave the way he did. He was an exceptional interviewer. Look up his interview with Brian Wilson. The best interview with Brian ever done, period. Brian was at ease like never before seen. Especially considering Brian was never comfortable being interviewed, and rarely consented to them.
I absolutely agree that the Four Seasons never got their due, but just to play devil’s advocate here, I think a lot of it had to do with perception. Because they were known as “Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,” that automatically separated them from bands like the Beatles and the Stones, who were seen as more of a unit. Even growing up, I always thought of the Four Seasons as a glorified backing band for Frankie. Only later did I discover the significant contribution of the others, especially Bob.
That's an "Old School" deal, calling the band by the name of the lead. I'm the Grandson of Bill Nettles, who wrote the Hadocal Boogie, He was always billed as "Bill Nettles, & the Dixie Blue Boys". Franki Valli was the same way. That's the way it was done back in the day.
That is BS regarding rolling stone not acknowledging the 4 seasons contribution to pop or rock music. Before, during and after the Beatles the 4 Seasons are the only group in rock history to have a number one record, yes only group to accomplish this. Verify and please correct me if I am wrong. They have made some very great music and again the first group to write their own songs, play their own instruments and have their first three records hit the number one spot on the charts way before the Beatles. They were s band not just a singing group. They opened the doors!
Rolling Stone should have recognized The Four Seasons with at least one record in that list of 500, I agree. But with all due respect, you are massively simplifying and cherry picking here. The Beatles were writing their own songs and playing their own instruments long before they were famous, long before 1962 (when the Four Seasons had their first hit). Buddy Holly wrote his own songs, and his band played their own instruments, in the late 1950s. The Four Searsons were innovative in their use of harmony and in Frankie Valli's voice. But to suggest that they were ground-breaking in those other ways simply isn't true. As for having a number one record before, during and after The Beatles, all I can say is "so what"? They had a long career, I get it. But what about all the output from The Beatles as solo artists for decades after The Beatles? And what does the number of years of being together have to do with their significant impact on music? I look at the sheer depth and volume of top 10 and number 1 records, the variety of musical styles in those hit records, the way 4 decades can go by and Paul McCartney can still fill arenas world-wide. The Beatles were clearly far more ground-breaking and significant to the evolution of rock and music in general.
The 4 Seasons are one of the greatest bands to come out of the rock and roll era!!!! Pretty awesome to have over 65 records hit the Billboard Charts!!!! Whiling charting before, during and after the Beatles. They opened the doors and were groundbreaking, just a bunch of talented individuals from the good old USA.
@@cowsongs I agree with your comments regarding the Beatles, I will not respond with a “so what”. The members of the Four Seasons were also playing their own instruments and writing their own material way before the year 1962. The Four Seasons were a ground breaking band while being fully contained and due to their backgrounds, chose to keep a low profile which definitely hurt their success and profile.
The Beatles were really a flash in the pan. The 4 seasons were still around during the Beatles, and then came CCR. Even as great as CCR was, 4 seasons vocal's were way better.
Dad VinnyCatalano rec prod. Gave Bobby his first coaching for working with The Beach Boys on Short Shorts. With The Angels as back up singers girl group for My BoyfriendsBack
you are correct. b. gaudio has written & produced for many stars. you need the proper people to work with you. the 4 Seasons were very successful in the 1960's. when the 70's came record cos. lost interest in them. motown signed them but never promoted them. however gaudio & f. valli worked hard to keep their act going. right now motown still has 40 + songs still in the vaults waiting to be released. enjoy.
Rolling Stone Magazine and All media which adore Beatles too much can go too hell!🔥👿👹🔥. Ever i watch their movie(SURPRISINGLY after i watch Straight Outta Compton) my mind become craze like HELL!!! all my friend and somebody are always talk about the mighty Beatles, NEVER talked about this group, NOT EVER ONCE and YEAH rather than Beatles music i prefer Frankie and "associate" and boy o' boy their music makes me sure that this world really are brainwashed by religion whose called MEDIA!
My point is this: how can Rolling Stone determine what method to use to determine if a white guys plays the blues better than a black guy? Did they use something like the Richter Scale? My point is the comment in Rolling Stone, that compared Clapton to King, was unnecessary and irrelevant because there is no way you can measure who plays the blues better. I'm white, by the way. Success in sports is measured in head to head competition with a score determining the winner.
I don't even understand the question of including The Four Seasons with groups like The Beatles, The Doors, The Rolling Stones, The Who or Led Zeppelin! They simply do not belong lumped in with that group anymore than a group like The Beach Boys do! It doesn't matter how many hits they had. What matters is the years, the era in which those hits were produced. I don't think any group alive or dead can compete with The Four Seasons when it comes to the number of solid top 40 hits in that tight a time frame. Besides, you're talking two or possibly three completely different genres when you talk about early R&B, Do-Wop, early Rock 'N Roll, Bubble Gum/Soft Rock, Black & White Soul and then, the more cutting and sharper edge of Rock 'N Roll which began with The Beatles, albeit their first offerings were rather on the cutesy Bubble Gummy side! Had The Four Seasons 'morphed" into a cutting edge and edgy group like the Beatles, then....perhaps...BUT they didn't! Only The Beatles bridged that gap. No...it's not "All Rock 'N Roll to me" nor should it be for anyone, really. You've got to separate the eras to some degree and if you did then The Four Seasons would belong in the era that came just after virtually all black R&B turned into Rockabilly, the Elvis phenomenon and Do-Wop and just before or in tandem with the early Beatles. The Beatles, again, changed Rock 'N Roll forever with the Sgt. Pepper, Revolver and White albums. Once you go there you've got to factor in the drug scene within the music and the music, itself, was rife with it. Sure, some will argue drugs were always a part of music, but, what happened to music in 1967-68 was not your average grass and munchies accompaniment! We're talking grass cut and laced with all kinds of bad-ass stuff and it came through in the music of the times! When The Four Seasons signed with Motown you could have heard the lamentations of a funeral dirge dancing on its grave. It wasn't until they left Motown that they once again enjoyed success. In the Disco era, Frankie Valli again emerged as a current factor with "Swearin' to God" and The Four Seasons again recorded to success.
***** Hey Brainless...you don't understand a word I wrote in my comments so don't even pretend you comprehend it. You're not from this country and you have no clue as to the different types of music that began the excursion into Rock N' Roll music. You're just dumb enough to lump Julio Iglesias in with Tito Puente! OMG..what an imbécil. Go eat some of your nice heart smart cuchifritos and STFU. Come back when you know what the hell you're talking about...like in about 25 years.
***** Burritos are not Cuchifritos! Cuchifritos are usually bits of pork that are fried. So, you're Cuban...whoopie for you and so what! I don't much care where you're from and this isn't about your English writing skills which are absent to begin with! This is about you calling someone an IDIOT when YOU don't understand what was written or the first thing about the evolution of American Music! Now...after you made that altogether rude and insulting remark, I don't give a damn about you or whatever you have to say either. I also don't give a hoot if you have a good day or a bad one. Go get an education...on some rudimentary level...even if it is only to learn some fundamental manners! Being Cuban, I know you were taught more than what you exhibited here, unless that too has changed! You need to learn how to speak to people you do not know, have never met and cannot comprehend because of a language gap! Had you understood what was written and disagreed with it, that's one thing, but what you did was completely uncalled for and downright ignorant!
The four seasons were better than the Beatles. The early beatles was great but the latter edgy stuff you call it was just image and nothing else. There music was not better or even close to the level of their earlier stuff or the Four Seasons. The Four Seasons produced simpler and better music. There Harmonies were something that the Beatles could not do and could only attempt in studio with lots of takes editing and background effects. I love the Beatles music but let's not pretend they were as good as the Four Seasons or even the Beach Boys. Led Zeppelin had a great guitarist and produced some good music but were not on the same level as The Four Seasons. Everybody recognizes The Four Seasons because they made better songs while very few but the fans would recognize Led Zeplin.
I have that issue of the 500 greatest songs of all time by the RS magazine. Songs like Downtown, Eve Of Destruction, Games People Play, Shaft, Nights in White Satin just to name a few, are not on the list. Rolling Stone magazine sucks donkey *****.
Rolling Stone did not pick guitarist Les Paul in its top 50 guitar players of all time and once claimed that Eric Clapton plays the blues better than B. B. King. If I remember correctly Black people invented the blues.
Bob is right, no reason why no Four Seasons tunes reached their top 500, considering all the crap tunes that made it.. Rolling Stone should be ashamed.
I saw Jersey Boys 2 days ago. I can't stop singing
the songs!
One hell of an intelligent individual Bob Gaudio is!!!! The Four Seasons are one hell of a band who put out some great music and will soon approach their 60th anniversary. One of the first bands to write, play their own instruments and own the rights to their name and music.
Let me tell you as singer/songwriter myself, Bob is more than just a great songwriter, He's a fantastic 1st tenor. I just happened to stumble across a video of "Rag Doll", & here's Bob Gaudio singing 1st tenor harmony with the guy I always thought was the best 1st tenor ever, Franki Valli. The lyrics were great, but the vocals & the harmony was what made the 4 seasons.
I stumbled on the movie and had no idea what it was about...the movie literally took to such a happy place. I was a 70s kid an d had no idea how many songs they had!! Now I'm searching the web for more cause the m Ovid left me wanting more
Knew him for awhile, growing up in the Bronx. Both our families moved to New Jersey, at different times, and we bumped into each other again, in Bergenfield, N.J. Me working in my brothers pastry shop! Bobbie stopping in with his Dad to buy some delicious Italian Pastries!! Very Nice Family, the best! Joked with his Dad!
Wow!!!! Very interesting comments and how lucky you are to have met them.
I grew up in Bergenfield too. Was your families bakery Avitables? Please forgive the spelling.
loved Jersey Boys,great show.got to relive my youth and the 4 seasons.highly recommend this show
I once was taken yo Mr Gaudios house to meet him by frankies brother bobby who I played with in a band when I was 18yr. Bob was very gracious, though I was awe struck and unable to converse
What a treat to listen to this infinitely gifted artist. I've always had such respect for song writers. Just genius!
Thank you Mr. Gaudio, Jersey Boys was an amazing show.
Ive been listening to alot of interviews about the Four Seasons lately, and i feel bad because i have not as yet mentioned that i do believe that Bob Gaudio is a very talented songwriter and musician. It was the combination of Bobs songs, Frankie and the other two members all put together that created this magical bunch of hit songs for the group. Bob Gaudio is definitely a genious as far as im concerned. Thank you so much for your contribution to the music world.🎹🎵🎶
A well spoken, articulate man. Such a talent.
Composer...so many great songs ! Very good interview also !
28 May 2019 Keith Stevenson it's good to listen to an intelligent interview, with Bob Gaudio.
I can understand how Bob Gaudio would be miffed by Rolling Stone not including one song that he wrote in the 500 greatest songs list. Walk Like a Man surely should have been on that list. Big Girls Don't Cry and Let's Hang On also would be worthy of being on that list. I grew up listening to the Four Seasons. Yeah, I did the hippie thing and got into hard rock and all that but the music of the Four Seasons were a big part of my life in the early to mid 60's. Sherry was the first 45 rpm record that I ever bought. I loved the Beatles and the subsequent British Invasion but I'll always have fond memories of my youth listening to the Four Seasons. Thank you Bob Gaudio for composing such memorable songs and enhancing my memories.
Rolling Stone is a communist magazine and the man who controls the magazine does not like America and was more interested in trying to downplay American culture. Rolling stone loves everything British and anything that is anti American.
pmoyer50 Everything they did was a hit!
Def in top 100
Great interview.Bob Gaudio is finally getting the credit he deserves.
I was blessed to see Jersey Boys in Chicago .. just wow , was it ever good . I love Fallen Angel knowing the story behind it 😢. I’m so glad I’ve lived through all of the great music and talent.. I’m 68..
BOB GAUDIO wherever you are while we are on COVD19 lockdown - THANK YOU!!!! PS - While at college in the 1970's, younger students were singing "Short Shorts" in response to the warm weather attire of some females.
In the early '60's the girls would sing it in the streets as they showed off their short shorts.
@@Nestor123057 I think bob crew wrote. i believe i have that record
He’s a weekly regular at the restaurant I work at. He is still kickin it here in Nashville, TN!
The Four Seasons were great and Bob is one of the best songwriters of all time. Without the Four Seasons you don’t have Weezer.....their way of beautifully mastering the 2:00 minute pop song and making it a timeless treasure is something not many people can lay acclaim to.
Thanks for this, Miked. Now I've got to find some Weezer recordings - I know the name, but haven't heard them.
Yes, I agree..Really the best group ever!!
What Mr. Gaudio says is so true, I never understood why others didn't love Franki and the 4 Seasons the way that I did. LIke who cared the Beatles were going to be on Ed Sullivan, I want to see the 4 Seasons - again and again and again!
When "Sherry" hit the radio, they had me, nobody sounded like them.
The Four Seasons were one talented American Band and I hold them in the highest regard as others hold The Beach Boys and The Beatles, whom I also collect and enjoy their music very much. The Four Seasons due to their criminal backgrounds in a way chose not to be in the limelight at all time but preferred a much lower profile which hurt their exposure. Imagine had The Beach Boys first come out with THREE NUMBER ONE ☝️ hit records in a row as The Four Seasons did, they would have been the greatest thing ever. While The Beach Boys were barely enjoy their success with their first number one ☝️ hit, the Four Seasons were on their Fourth number one ☝️ hit record. Prior to the Beatles arrival the Four Seasons were this county’s number one Band while still hitting the charts throughout the 1960’s and 70’s. I hope I don’t verbally get beat up for this comment regarding the Four Seasons, because I usually do, but I will always stand up for this American Band as others stand up for theirs. Take care and be well.
the 4 seasons were great, but, they weren't the Beatles. Come on!
I hope that Bob Gaudio and the Four Seasons get some recognition for the work they did on the "Genuine Imitation Life Gazzette." This album is usually not discussed in interviews, but it was a work of genius that was never given the repect by the music community when it was released, but today it is considered a "lost music masterpiece."
It is time for this great piece of work to be looked at once again!
You know your music,I couldn’t agree more with every thing you said.Way to go! It’s a Masterpiece.
I have a great story that goes with this!! In 1997, we had the honor of meeting Frankie Valli after his performance at the Friar Tuck Inn in Upstate NY. I have a photo of him signing our LP with my wife. I told him how much we love his work. While he was autographing, I said to him: "Frankie, we love the hits, but one of my favorite LPs is 'Genuine Life Gazette' (sic). 'Mrs. Stately's Garden' is my favorite." He looked at me, pulled the glasses down on his nose, smiled and just stared at me for 4 or 5 seconds. It was as if he was saying, "OMG, You really ARE a serious fan..."
Great interview. Bob Gaudio is such an incredible talent. Love so many of his songs which didn't even hit it big. Beautiful, melodic stuff (i.e., The Proud One, September Rain, To Give, etc.) I totally agree about RS. I was shocked not to see Nights in White Satin (I'm a big Moody Blues fan) or any Four Seasons or Frankie Valli singles- Can't Take My Eyes Off You at a minimum should have been on that list. Ridiculous.
What a stupendous talent!
Bob Gaudio is the 4 Seasons answer to Motown's Holland/Dozier/Holland .
Just pure , unmitigated ,
GENIUS .
I love you Bob for all these fantastic songs that I’ve loved all my life!!❤
although i was born in 1980, i grew up on franki valli and the four seasons, paul anka and the likes, and i absolutely love franki valli and the 4 seasons, thank you guys for some of the best memories i have with my dad whos passed away now
Excellent interview
I was 10 growing up in NYC when Cherry was a hit, & it's so amazing to fast forward & listen to Mr Gaudio reflect on some of that journey. I suppose after certain peaks & valleys & being able to maintain an incredible level of success, you really do understand a "gut feeling" syndrome you wouldn't know unless you were doing this for over 50 plus years. The Rolling Stone 500 exclusion comment was something is was unaware of. The magic & memories stapled to my heart that comes with The 4 Seasons is undeniable & forever. Btw, Jersey Boys eh? Bob, I thought you were from The Bronx ?? We love ya just the same. Long live The 4 Seasons !
he is from the bronx
Awe-some! This man is absolutely under rated. It took me seeing Jersey Boys before I realized his talent. I wish I was half the song writer he is/was. I think I will change my last name to Gaudio in his honor!... ha hah....
I also played clubs with Nick Massi in the 90'sbefore he passed away.Once again very down to earth and friendly and a great bass player.
Hello Al, you are one very fortunate individual to have met Gaudio in a previous message and then to have played with Nick Massi, absolutely incredible and in complete awe.
Great interview..wanted more
I saw them play by accident at the Steel Pier in the Summer of 1967. By that time, my musical tastes really took off. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the show. I grew up on the Four Seasons and always looked forward to the next hit. America had the Beach Boys and Four Seasons cranking out the hits for us before the Beatles became famous. Few groups had as many great songs as the Four Seasons did. Songs too like 'Just a Little Boy in Grown Up Clothes,' Marlena,' Big Man in Town,' etc. Great group.
Wow!!!! You mentioned some great songs by them that really are not brought up to often. Songs you mentioned are some of my favorites and were all chart hits, thank you.
"Marlena" is my top favorite record of all time. Always a perfect mood-lifter.
Bob also wrote the record watertown for frank sinatra.Great record
Let’s NOT FORGET the credit due to late 1965 replacement awesome bassist and background singer Joe Long (Joe LaBracio). He continued contributing to the major hits including “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, and Tell It To The Rain”, and much more!
RIP Joe Long
Very true ,Joe was on many hits ,was with the Seasons during the rebirth of the group in the 70s ,etc. Sadly ,he wasn't on the HOF list . I never really understood that. I was told that Frankie considered him an employee of the group. Not sure how true that is . As a fan ,I always considered him a Season.
This man has a brilliant talent. Love his songs. Respect.
What an incredible song writer. He's a true genius. Would love to see a movie made about him and all he's done.
How tall this group stood during the British Invasion
about 5'10" , something like that
derek sanderson probley today
love these guys/i grew up loving them//
I'm glad I saw this
FABULOUS interview-so well researched-really GREAT!!! I am meeting Bob tonight and after watching this i feel like i know him already!!! Thanks xxx
Wow, why and how did you get to meet him????
@@georgemusic4all4seasons He was in Australia promoting Jersey Boys and I got invited to go.
I had the almost unbelievable privilege of hosting Bob and Judy for the Blue Man Group show at the Venetian. Jersey Boys had recently opened at the Bellagio. The Four Seasons have always been my absolute top favorite performers, and I have to disagree with Bob, up above - they absolutely DID have a following who bought everything they did... me. They were so gracious to this old fanboy, and Judy took a photo of Bob and me. HOW I envy you, Jian - I would love to have 16 minutes to hang with Bob. Thank you for this!
What a good interview, and interviewer. It was a pleasure watching this. Thanks. And yes, I remember when that, Rolling Stone Magazine Top 500 List, came out and not a single 4 Seasons song was on it. Being a big Seasons fan, I thought that was messed up. Although, I do remember, they did a Top 5 Hidden Gems Albums, and selected, 'Genuine Imitation Life', as one of them. They said, in their comment, that they had no respect for their kind of music but thought the 4 Seasons' attempt at psychedelia, a la the Beatles, was admirable and worth listening to. I bought the CD based on this recommendation and found it to be very good, albeit, not your proto typical 4 Seasons music.
Agreed. Insightful interview with great questions. A true adult conversation. Well done.
The Genuine Imitation Life Gazette Album is a very good album and just about anyone who likes music should lend an ear to this album. It’s one of my favorite all time albums and more so because it showed how a Band can grow as they continue to produce commercial hits. I have the album on vinyl, cd, tape and streaming, I think that’s what it’s called and can listen to it anytime.
I always had the respect of the music of the 4 season too
Amen !!!
Talented, prestigious, a total gentleman
Quality man.
Yes!!!
the master
@rickcee The Seasons were all MASTER musicians who did their own recordings and played at their own concerts. Many of the Beach Boys recording were made with studio musicians. I heard both bands live and the Seasons win hands down as singers and musicians, not to take anything away from the Beach Boys using your logic.
Who is this smart, good-looking interviewer who knows how to present the facts? We all know about Bob Gaudio's genius.
His name is Jian Gomeshi. He is a great interviewer who unfortunately fell into disgrace and was fired from his job for some terrible decisions in his personal life, a la Weinstein. While I despise that part of his story, I always loved listening to him.
@@patticakes39 So sad. Hope he recovers. You know we really need to remember that even God forgives past repented mistakes. This nation has lately chosen to play God.
@@patticakes39 It was unfortunate the way things turned out with Jian. He obviously had some terrable character flaws to behave the way he did. He was an exceptional interviewer. Look up his interview with Brian Wilson. The best interview with Brian ever done, period. Brian was at ease like never before seen. Especially considering Brian was never comfortable being interviewed, and rarely consented to them.
That album, record is a collector's item, worth 6K.. if you can find it..
I absolutely agree that the Four Seasons never got their due, but just to play devil’s advocate here, I think a lot of it had to do with perception. Because they were known as “Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,” that automatically separated them from bands like the Beatles and the Stones, who were seen as more of a unit. Even growing up, I always thought of the Four Seasons as a glorified backing band for Frankie. Only later did I discover the significant contribution of the others, especially Bob.
Yes but at the time of the 4 seasons you had the Beach Boys.
The 4 Seasons were simply known as the 4 Seasons until 1970, the first phase of their hit making years.
That's an "Old School" deal, calling the band by the name of the lead. I'm the Grandson of Bill Nettles, who wrote the Hadocal Boogie, He was always billed as "Bill Nettles, & the Dixie Blue Boys". Franki Valli was the same way. That's the way it was done back in the day.
Screw rolling stone magazine
Wasn't aware that Macca's Company has some of Bob's songs in publishing rights.
I dont know if you have already Bob, but you should write a book!
That is BS regarding rolling stone not acknowledging the 4 seasons contribution to pop or rock music. Before, during and after the Beatles the 4 Seasons are the only group in rock history to have a number one record, yes only group to accomplish this. Verify and please correct me if I am wrong. They have made some very great music and again the first group to write their own songs, play their own instruments and have their first three records hit the number one spot on the charts way before the Beatles. They were s band not just a singing group. They opened the doors!
I never knew the four seasons were ever the opening act for the doors, interesting
Rolling Stone should have recognized The Four Seasons with at least one record in that list of 500, I agree. But with all due respect, you are massively simplifying and cherry picking here. The Beatles were writing their own songs and playing their own instruments long before they were famous, long before 1962 (when the Four Seasons had their first hit). Buddy Holly wrote his own songs, and his band played their own instruments, in the late 1950s. The Four Searsons were innovative in their use of harmony and in Frankie Valli's voice. But to suggest that they were ground-breaking in those other ways simply isn't true. As for having a number one record before, during and after The Beatles, all I can say is "so what"? They had a long career, I get it. But what about all the output from The Beatles as solo artists for decades after The Beatles? And what does the number of years of being together have to do with their significant impact on music? I look at the sheer depth and volume of top 10 and number 1 records, the variety of musical styles in those hit records, the way 4 decades can go by and Paul McCartney can still fill arenas world-wide. The Beatles were clearly far more ground-breaking and significant to the evolution of rock and music in general.
The 4 Seasons are one of the greatest bands to come out of the rock and roll era!!!! Pretty awesome to have over 65 records hit the Billboard Charts!!!! Whiling charting before, during and after the Beatles. They opened the doors and were groundbreaking, just a bunch of talented individuals from the good old USA.
@@cowsongs I agree with your comments regarding the Beatles, I will not respond with a “so what”. The members of the Four Seasons were also playing their own instruments and writing their own material way before the year 1962. The Four Seasons were a ground breaking band while being fully contained and due to their backgrounds, chose to keep a low profile which definitely hurt their success and profile.
The Beatles were really a flash in the pan. The 4 seasons were still around during the Beatles, and then came CCR. Even as great as CCR was, 4 seasons vocal's were way better.
Dad VinnyCatalano rec prod. Gave Bobby his first coaching for working with The Beach Boys on Short Shorts. With The Angels as back up singers girl group for My BoyfriendsBack
Cool story
I'd like to know when (date) and where this interview with Bob Gaudio (on QTV) was recorded and broadcast here. Thank you.
you are correct. b. gaudio has written & produced for many stars. you need the proper people to work with you. the 4 Seasons were very successful in the 1960's. when the 70's came record cos. lost interest in them. motown signed them but never promoted them. however gaudio & f. valli worked hard to keep their act going. right now motown still has 40 + songs still in the vaults waiting to be released. enjoy.
Happy birthday Bob !
Still listening to the 4 Seasons.
I wear my heart on my sleeve as well. It’s an issue.
The NY World's Fair was 1964-65.
I remember that very well!
And singers, how can you match FV 31/2 octave voice..
Raymond Minutolo yep
I agree with your point. I just thought that I had a funny analogy.
Rolling Stone Magazine and All media which adore Beatles too much can go too hell!🔥👿👹🔥. Ever i watch their movie(SURPRISINGLY after i watch Straight Outta Compton) my mind become craze like HELL!!! all my friend and somebody are always talk about the mighty Beatles, NEVER talked about this group, NOT EVER ONCE and YEAH rather than Beatles music i prefer Frankie and "associate" and boy o' boy their music makes me sure that this world really are brainwashed by religion whose called MEDIA!
I'd cook his breakfast!
Me too!
My point is this: how can Rolling Stone determine what method to use to determine if a white guys plays the blues better than a black guy? Did they use something like the Richter Scale? My point is the comment in Rolling Stone, that compared Clapton to King, was unnecessary and irrelevant because there is no way you can measure who plays the blues better. I'm white, by the way.
Success in sports is measured in head to head competition with a score determining the winner.
I don't even understand the question of including The Four Seasons with groups like The Beatles, The Doors, The Rolling Stones, The Who or Led Zeppelin! They simply do not belong lumped in with that group anymore than a group like The Beach Boys do! It doesn't matter how many hits they had. What matters is the years, the era in which those hits were produced. I don't think any group alive or dead can compete with The Four Seasons when it comes to the number of solid top 40 hits in that tight a time frame. Besides, you're talking two or possibly three completely different genres when you talk about early R&B, Do-Wop, early Rock 'N Roll, Bubble Gum/Soft Rock, Black & White Soul and then, the more cutting and sharper edge of Rock 'N Roll which began with The Beatles, albeit their first offerings were rather on the cutesy Bubble Gummy side! Had The Four Seasons 'morphed" into a cutting edge and edgy group like the Beatles, then....perhaps...BUT they didn't! Only The Beatles bridged that gap. No...it's not "All Rock 'N Roll to me" nor should it be for anyone, really. You've got to separate the eras to some degree and if you did then The Four Seasons would belong in the era that came just after virtually all black R&B turned into Rockabilly, the Elvis phenomenon and Do-Wop and just before or in tandem with the early Beatles. The Beatles, again, changed Rock 'N Roll forever with the Sgt. Pepper, Revolver and White albums. Once you go there you've got to factor in the drug scene within the music and the music, itself, was rife with it. Sure, some will argue drugs were always a part of music, but, what happened to music in 1967-68 was not your average grass and munchies accompaniment! We're talking grass cut and laced with all kinds of bad-ass stuff and it came through in the music of the times! When The Four Seasons signed with Motown you could have heard the lamentations of a funeral dirge dancing on its grave. It wasn't until they left Motown that they once again enjoyed success. In the Disco era, Frankie Valli again emerged as a current factor with "Swearin' to God" and The Four Seasons again recorded to success.
***** Hey Brainless...you don't understand a word I wrote in my comments so don't even pretend you comprehend it. You're not from this country and you have no clue as to the different types of music that began the excursion into Rock N' Roll music. You're just dumb enough to lump Julio Iglesias in with Tito Puente! OMG..what an imbécil. Go eat some of your nice heart smart cuchifritos and STFU. Come back when you know what the hell you're talking about...like in about 25 years.
***** Burritos are not Cuchifritos! Cuchifritos are usually bits of pork that are fried. So, you're Cuban...whoopie for you and so what! I don't much care where you're from and this isn't about your English writing skills which are absent to begin with! This is about you calling someone an IDIOT when YOU don't understand what was written or the first thing about the evolution of American Music! Now...after you made that altogether rude and insulting remark, I don't give a damn about you or whatever you have to say either. I also don't give a hoot if you have a good day or a bad one. Go get an education...on some rudimentary level...even if it is only to learn some fundamental manners! Being Cuban, I know you were taught more than what you exhibited here, unless that too has changed! You need to learn how to speak to people you do not know, have never met and cannot comprehend because of a language gap! Had you understood what was written and disagreed with it, that's one thing, but what you did was completely uncalled for and downright ignorant!
The four seasons were better than the Beatles. The early beatles was great but the latter edgy stuff you call it was just image and nothing else. There music was not better or even close to the level of their earlier stuff or the Four Seasons.
The Four Seasons produced simpler and better music. There Harmonies were something that the Beatles could not do and could only attempt in studio with lots of takes editing and background effects.
I love the Beatles music but let's not pretend they were as good as the Four Seasons or even the Beach Boys. Led Zeppelin had a great guitarist and produced some good music but were not on the same level as The Four Seasons.
Everybody recognizes The Four Seasons because they made better songs while very few but the fans would recognize Led Zeplin.
B
I have that issue of the 500 greatest songs of all time by the RS magazine. Songs like Downtown, Eve Of Destruction, Games People Play, Shaft, Nights in White Satin just to name a few, are not on the list. Rolling Stone magazine sucks donkey *****.
Rolling Stone did not pick guitarist Les Paul in its top 50 guitar players of all time and once claimed that Eric Clapton plays the blues better than B. B. King. If I remember correctly Black people invented the blues.
Black people certainly did invent the blues, but what does that mean? White people invented basketball.
One dislike! Lol
Sorry about that
Bob is right, no reason why no Four Seasons tunes reached their top 500, considering all the crap tunes that made it.. Rolling Stone should be ashamed.
Rolling Stone hasn't been a out music since the 1970's...if ever.
He is the author of the song "Beggin"
Amen!!!