Biography

Inductee: Gene Pitney (vocals, guitar; born February 17, 1940; died April 5, 2006) One of the unsung heroes of the rock and roll era, Gene Pitney crossed paths with a wide array of rock royalty – from Phil Spector and the Rolling Stones to Rick Nelson and Carole King – while amassing a sizable string of hits. Pitney arrived on the scene in the late Fifties as a gifted songwriter, capable musician and incredible singer. His dramatic tenor, given to piercing climaxes, was among the more remarkable voices of the age. He could deliver a rocker with panache, as evidenced ...