In Honor of the Late, Great Nick Massi (September 19, 1927-December 24, 2000)
December 28th, 2015
Nick Massi with his fellow Four Seasons, Steve Allen Show, 1963
This year on Christmas Eve marked 15 years since Nick Massi, the talented bassist, bass singer and awesome vocal arranger for The Four Seasons passed away. As Frankie Valli states in the final scene in JERSEY BOYS, “And now he’s gone. God rest him. He died Christmas Eve, 2000. I mean, for a Catholic, is that style or what?”
In 2000, Frankie Valli praised Nick Massi’s musical genius. “He could do four-part modern harmonies that would amaze musicians who had studied for years,” Valli told the Star-Ledger. “And he did it all in his head without writing it down.”
Nick, you will never be forgotten!
Even though Christmas has passed, listen to the incredible vocal arrangements on The Four Seasons’ rendition of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and Nicky’s amazing bass vocals!
Mr. Massi was a real talent as you can hear in those early 4 Seasons classic recordings. His departure from the group was a loss but bringing on the talented Joe Long I believe was in their favor as he was a much younger performer like Mr. Gaudio who could keep the music fresh sounding.
Mr. Massi may you rest in peace.
Comment by George — December 30, 2015 @ 12:32 pm