Johnny Maestro, a singer for the Brooklyn Bridges, died yesterday at the age of 70. We’re too young to know who they were, but apparently the helped break barriers back when singing about interracial harmony and infidelity were still taboo.
Maestro, a native of the borough, reportedly picked the name for his smooth-tongued group when a manager commented they would be “harder to sell than the Brooklyn Bridge.”
After he got sick and began undergoing treatment for cancer, Maestro wrote a a poignant message to his fans, in Brooklyn and elsewhere:
I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for their thoughts, get well wishes and prayers while I am undergoing treatment for cancer.
I have been fortunate to be able to perform before the “best audiences”, our loyal fans, for over 7 decades dating back to the late1950’s. There have been no better times for myself and the Brooklyn Bridge then when we are performing, singing the music that brings back memories of times that we all cherish and hold dear to our hearts. I am very grateful for the opportunity that has allowed me to do something that “I love” and to be able to share our music with so many people.
I want everyone to know that when I read your messages, it brightens my day and gives me strength and determination to get back on stage. Your support is the best medicine.
Best Wishes…………………….Johnny Maestro
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