‘Earth Angel’ co-writer Gaynel Hodge to perform solo concert at Skye

Gaynel Hodge to Perform Solo at Skye Restaurant February 18th

Grammy-nominated Gaynel Hodge, co-writer of the platinum 1950s doo-wop hits “Earth Angel” and “Goodnight, My Love,” will perform a one-man concert, including narrative, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at Skye Restaurant, 16844 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Drive, Peoria, 623-334-0010, www.LiveAtSkye.com. Admission is $10 (also $40 for booths seating up to five people); discount to JiA members with password GAYNEL at www.liveatskye.com/gaynelhodge

Hodge, born in 1937 in Los Angeles, Calif., was involved in doo-wop, rhythm and blues and jazz from his earliest years. He began writing songs and playing piano professionally at age 13, starting with all-vocal groups on street corners in L.A.

By age 15, Gaynel was a regular session musician in recording studios throughout L.A. and had co-written the multi-platinum hit “Earth Angel” with Jesse Belvin and Curtis Williams. He then formed The Platters with his brother, Alex, and sang and played piano on their first 16 recordings.

He also performed with The Turks and The Hollywood Flames, and toured from 1969-1974 with The World Famous Ink Spots as pianist-vocalist and musical director. The Platters were inducted into the national Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Hodge was inducted into the United in Group Harmony Hall of Fame (1996, New York), Arizona Blues Hall of Fame (1999) and Arizona Songwriters Association Hall of Fame.

A Phoenix resident until 10 years ago, he tours several months of the year throughout Europe, the Middle East and the United States. In July 2007, he performed a live concert with Dr. John at the Paradiso in Amsterdam. When not touring, he performs weekly in Amsterdam and other venues throughout the Netherlands, where he and his wife, Ilona, reside.

Published on behalf of Gaynel Hodge
Gaynel Hodge tours several months of the year throughout Europe, the Middle East and the United States. When not touring he performs weekly in Amsterdam and other venues throughout the Netherlands. For more information, visit www.gaynelhodge.com/.

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