Franco Corso was singing for a guy named Trump a few months ago. But Sunday night instead of The Donald — Corso was belting out tunes for The Jerry.
Jerry Vicenti is already president — of the Italian Paisans Club. He booked Corso for the group’s sold out show Sunday at SeaBreeze Regional Recreation Center, before about 330 members.
“This is amazing because it’s our 10th sellout show in a row,” Vicenti said. “We have loyal members and they love to be entertained.” Singer Safia Hudson was the opening act.
“We all see the news and we all know the world is really a mess,” Vicenti said. “Tonight, we’re here to have some fun.”
Corso, who performed with a four-piece band, earned at least half a dozen standing ovations with his crossover blend of opera and pop songs. Back on Valentine’s Day, Corso found himself performing for Donald and Mrs. Trump at Trump’s Palm Beach’s Mar-a-Lago Club
“He likes music, he’s a good audience,” Corso said. He added that Trump’s favorite song that night was “Nessun Dorma.”
“It was fun singing for him,” Corso said. “I hope he books me again.”
Watch video of last night’s performance here:
Corso had the Paisans rocking with a tarantella beat during a boisterous version of the old Italian party song, “Che La Luna.” There was more fun with a sparkling version of “Volare.”
Later, he wandered out in the audience to a table in the rear and sat down at next to Barbara Iannielli. Corso serenaded her with “The Godfather” theme, “Speak Softly Love.”
“It was wonderful having him sing next to me,” Iannielli said. “I felt like I was in Italy again. He has a beautiful voice.”
After another song, Corso tossed out one of his tee-shirts to the crowd and it was caught by Rosemary Rovegno. “I’ve seen him before and I love his voice,” she said. “Now I’m going to wear his shirt.”
During a glossy and romantic “Al-Di-La,” Corso invited some special couples on stage to dance, including Ray and Stasia Owczarzak, celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary.
“We’re the token Polish couple,” Ray cracked. “We here all the time with the Paisans club, and it’s fun to be here with our friends on our anniversary,” Stasia said. Frank and Eleanor Perrotto took also took a whirl around the stage as they celebrated their 50th anniversary.
Also up there was Jerry Vicenti and his wife, Annette. “I think Jerry has found his calling,” she said with a grin about the dancing man. “We’re not having an anniversary; we’re having fun,” Jerry said.
Corso, who travels to his hometown of Sanremo, Italy on Monday to make a music video, showed his serious side. “I know it’s Father’s Day, but this one is for all the mothers,” Corso said and then sang the old Connie Francis’ heart-tugging standard, “Mama.” He brought more power to a reverent arrangement of “The Lord’s Prayer,” that earned a standing ovation.
“My inspiration is classical music,” said Corso, who now lives in Palm Beach. “I enjoy singing all kinds of music and interacting with an audience in a personal way.”
Safia Hudson also combined Broadway, pop and, at times, classical music. The Orlando singer admitted it has been a difficult and tragic week “for any performer from Orlando. But when you go out on stage, you put a smile on your face and try to make people happy.”
She did just that with an entertaining and lively set. It included such numbers as, “All That Jazz,” “Orange Colored Sky” “It Had to Be You” and “Time To Say Goodbye.”
Hudson, wearing a bright red dress and red rose in her hair, displayed an impressive vocal range and engaging personality. “It’s exciting to perform in The Villages,” she said. “I hope I can come back again.”
