| It’s as if Ol’ Blue Eyes was singing to you, himself. Jimmy Carnelli’s voice is as classic as the songs he performs. Originally from Long Island, New York, Jimmy, with his Italian charm, headed west in 1979 and graced Los Angeles with his musical talent and song. “I came to L.A. in hopes I could get in the industry and meet some important people, but it wasn’t as easy as I thought,” stated Jimmy. “The business here is very close knit.” Regardless, Jimmy made his way through the music scene, performing with many of the greats as a vocalist, drummer and percussionist. These included performances with artists like John Fogerty, Mike Pinera, Chuck Negron and even the Los Angeles Raiders Big Band, to name a few. In 1996, Jimmy had an amazing opportunity to work with the legendary pianist Roger Williams as his drummer. “Roger was an amazing musician and considered one of the popular pianists in American history.” In 1996, he approached Roger and together they formed a band. For 15 years, this band traveled everywhere, performing in well over 50 symphonies, recording three PBS specials and was also featured on Roger’s live recording of Pop Goes the Ivories which was released in 2000. “Roger passed away last year,” stated Jimmy. “It was a tough loss, and he is greatly missed.” Not only is Jimmy a percussionist, but put him behind a mic and you’d think you were listening to Frank Sinatra himself. The professional vocalist reunited with his band and recently and performed at Circle of Hope, Inc. Vine 2 Wine Classic last August. Jimmy Carnelli and Friends headlined the popular event and guests enjoyed an evening of great music, with Jimmy singing the classics that everyone loves. “Currently, Jimmy is getting ready to go into the studio and do an album,” states Manager Ray Tippet. “We are in the process of song selections and licensing agreements, and once we hone in on the details, we’ll get rolling and be recording with an album out hopefully mid year. We want to get Jimmy back on the road as a solo artist.” There have been many people who have been instrumental in Jimmy’s success-from his mother, Mary, who has been his greatest fan, to late father, Sal, who made him the man he is today, and his brother Steve, who is a very well known studio guitarist. “My brother came to me when I was a child and asked me if I really wanted to play drums. When I told him I did, he sold a guitar of his to buy me my first set of drums.” Jimmy continues, “My girlfriend, Christina has also been my greatest support system in building my business and helping me keep sane, along with my children Tiffany and Shelby. I am also very grateful for my teachers, Donald Bothwell, Peter Erskine, Murray Spivack. If it wasn’t for these men, I would have never learned to play. I am also so grateful for my manager, Ray. He has been so supportive throughout this journey.” Jimmy will be performing at the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital’s Sweetheart Gala on Saturday, February 9, honoring Linda and Moe Hafizi. Come dance with Jimmy Carnelli and his orchestra, and see what his music is all about. A Santa Clarita resident, Jimmy has a full entertainment company that can provide a wide variety of music and entertainment, playing classics from the Great American Songbook and more. Visit his website at www.carnellientertainment.com or call 661-252-9566.
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