Don McGuire, the last surviving member of the Hilltoppers, died Friday (September 7, 2018) at his Hazard, Kentucky home at the age of 87, after what was described as a 'short illness'... The group, named after the school team of Western Kentucky State College, where they were students, were inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in 2013... The quartet's two biggest hits* were "Marianne" {#3 in 1957} and "P.S. I Love You" {#4 in 1953}... May he R.I.P. * "Trying" reached #7 and was their first of nine Top 10 records...
I had the honor to meet Jimmy Sacca. I told him I loved his music and he asked did I have the records and I fibbed and said yes every one. That night I went on line and got the best of the Hilltoppers. He was a sweet sweet fella with a beautiful voice.
I well remember The Hilltoppers as a kid back in the 1950's, Jimmy Sacca's vocals were outstanding - he had his own distinctive style and phrasing. "Only You" was a favourite of my parents. I think The Platters had the bigger hit but we preferred the Hilltoppers. This is a great live video. Back in those days, vocal groups playing live could get a sound close to their records because there wasn't a lot of production, overdubbing, etc. like there is now.
@@ЕленаМальцева-и7з You're welcome Elena! The original Hilltoppers records were released in the U.S. on the Dot label, but here in the U.K. it was London. We had "Only You" on a 78 r.p.m. record. Now of course you can get them all on CD!
I always liked mostly rock and roll growing up,but can always remember the Hilltoppers and still do. That's why I'm listening to this. I have this 45 in the record collection I gave to my son.
jimmy sacca was one of the most charismatic and talented crooners of the 1950s--wish he had continued his career since the whole world would still be talking about him. So handsome, so one-of-a-kind.
This is wonderful! Always one of my favorite songs since I first delved into the music of my parents' generation when I was about 12; how nice to see the live performance on the "really big shoe" hosted by Ed himself. Thanks for putting it on the Tube for everyone to enjoy.
Wish to continue I sing Doo-Wop music, Bill Haley and the comets "rock around the clock" came out in 1954, The hilltoppers "Trying came out in 1952. I believe in my heart that the Hilltoppers are one of the founding fathers of rock and roll music. They were ahead of their time. Elvis didn't come out till 1956 and I love Elvis Presley. Thank you Hilltoppers for "Trying"and rock and roll music. The music you invented, you were innovators. Humanity owes you a debt of gratitude. Respectfully: Henry Pope
Just posted a comment on PJDooWop about this 1952 gem. Now to see them preform it live just added to thrill of finding a record that I had never heard. Thank you!
That's Billy Vaughn standing next to Ed Sullivan. A big career at Dot Records was ahead for him, arranging dozens of hit records for the label, as well as hundreds of recordings under his own name including "Sail Along Silv'ry Moon" and "Raunchy"
Brad Sacca : Your grandfather was a major figure in pop music of the 50's. A great voice, and I collected all the group's records. I especially liked "The Kentuckian Song"
Brad, how fantastic to have a legendary musical star as your grandfather! I always wondered what happened to him after the group disbanded? he would have made a great solo artist on his own? his voice was out-of-this world. very emotional and beautiful. would love to hear more about him.
I remember his singing to this day,just like some of you have. I can also remember reading somewhere years ago that he was one of the greatest singers of all time and I personally would have to agree.
Hi Amadeus...How interesting! Was he your Uncle or your great Uncle? Your uncle passed many years ago but is never forgotten. The Hilltoppers are one of my FAVORITE 1950s groups! That harmony under the lead of Jimmy Sacca was absolutely INCREDIBLE!
Amadeus Phoenix Fascinating! Does your aunt still ever listen to these old "Hilltoppers" songs anymore? They are so one of my ((VERY FAVE)) groups from the 50s....I still look for and collect "Hilltoppers" 78s although they were also put out on 45s...But I like the feel and sound of the old Dot label 78s. Regards to you and to your aunt...Please send her my blessings and let her know that 2014 still remembers her husband and his incredible sound with the "Hiilltoppers"!
I will definitely do that! Thank you. My family still enjoys the solid gold tracks they put out, they have stood the test of time. It is refreshing to hear from a true fan like yourself! Enjoy your day.
You should be very proud. He sang with the best group ever. Love their sound - the greatest. I was also a class of 1954 kid - in the deep south - Roll Tide!
