Fred Buscaglione

The Profile

Born in 1921 in Turin, Fred Buscaglione was a double bassist and singer who, with lyricist Leo Chiosso, created a comic gangster-crooner persona in 1950s Italy. He had a major hit with "Che bambola" (1956) and led bands such as the Asternovas. He died in a car crash on February 3, 1960.

Born 1921 (Turin). Double bassist and vocalist. Collaborated closely with lyricist Leo Chiosso. "Che bambola" (1956) sold widely (review cites 980,000 copies). Associated band: the Asternovas. Died February 3, 1960 in a car crash (pink Ford Thunderbird mentioned in reviews).

Fred Buscaglione was an Italian double bassist-turned-singer who built a comedic gangster-crooner persona in the 1950s. He worked with lyricist Leo Chiosso and had a major hit with "Che bambola". His music mixed swing, jazz and theatrical sound effects. He died in a car crash on February 3, 1960, cutting short plans to evolve his style.