John Lloyd Young, a name synonymous with Broadway brilliance and the unforgettable portrayal of Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys, continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances. This Tony® and Grammy Award-winning artist, celebrated for his role in both the original Broadway cast and Clint Eastwood’s Warner Bros. film adaptation of Jersey Boys, embodies the spirit of classic rock ‘n’ roll, Doo-Wop, and R&B. His show, John Lloyd Young: Broadway’s Jersey Boy, is not just a performance; it’s an authentic acoustic journey back to the heart of the ‘50s and ‘60s music scene.
Young’s vocal talent, once lauded by The New York Times for his “disciplined one-in-a-million high tenor shading into falsetto,” perfectly complements the timeless hits he performs. Fans can expect to hear iconic songs like “Sherry” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” alongside soulful renditions of “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me” and “In the Still of the Night.” His repertoire extends beyond these classics, embracing treasures from a diverse range of artists, including Roy Orbison, The Platters, The Righteous Brothers, Paul McCartney, Adele, Luther Vandross, Little Anthony, Elvis Presley, and Tom Jones. This broad spectrum of musical influence showcases Young’s versatility and deep appreciation for the era’s rich musical landscape, further explored in his critically acclaimed debut album My Turn.
John Lloyd Young in performance, Broadway's Jersey Boy known for his role as Frankie Valli
John Lloyd Young’s journey to stardom is marked by his groundbreaking role as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys. Originating the role on Broadway, he received unanimous praise from critics and audiences alike. This stellar performance earned him the prestigious Lead Actor Tony Award®, as well as Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and Theatre World Awards. Notably, he remains the only American actor to have secured all four leading-actor awards for a Broadway debut. His contribution to the Jersey Boys legacy extends to the double-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning original cast album, where he served as the lead vocalist. He also brought his portrayal of Frankie Valli to London’s West End, performing at the Piccadilly Theatre before Clint Eastwood personally selected him to reprise the role in the Jersey Boys film. This rare transition from Broadway to the big screen cemented John Lloyd Young’s place in entertainment history.
Accompanying John Lloyd Young are equally talented musicians who enhance the performance. Sean Harkness on guitar and Mark McLean on drums provide the rhythmic backbone and instrumental depth to the show. The musical direction is expertly handled by Ron Abel, ensuring a seamless and sonically rich experience.
Ron Abel, acclaimed music director known for collaborations with Broadway artists like John Lloyd Young
In conclusion, John Lloyd Young: Broadway’s Jersey Boy is more than just a concert; it’s a vibrant celebration of an era and a testament to the enduring power of classic music, delivered by a performer at the peak of his artistry. John Lloyd Young’s dedication to authenticity and his exceptional talent make this a must-experience for fans of Broadway and timeless musical hits.
