“Singing Linebacker” John Papadakis Returns to Catalina Jazz Club September 21 Tribute to Tony Bennett Standing Ovation By Eclectic Culture Expert Stephanie Mardesich
“Singing Linebacker” John Papadakis (Palos Verdes Peninsula resident) didn’t leave his heart in San Francisco when he paid tribute to the late great crooner Tony Bennett – it was open to all in the “heart” of Hollywood at the Catalina Jazz Club – and the audience left with a piece of it after a fabulous concert September 21.
It’s the third time he has performed at the prestigious venue to enthusiastic SRO crowd, of fans, friends, family, and former USC Trojan football teammates; and some celebrities including actor Elliott Gould and restaurant writer/critic Merrill Schindler.
The CJC has enjoyable night club ambiance, good wine list, well poured drinks and the cuisine is quite good. Great sightlines from every table.
He opened with undoubtedly Bennett’s most popular homage I Left My Heart In San Francisco, segue to poignant rendition of many of Bennett’s best know hits including Fly Me To The Moon, The Good Life ,The Boulevard of Broken Dreams, When Joanna Loved Me; and also regaled with some of his original songs.
John shared stories about Bennett, and personal anecdotes – e.g. he named his daughter Joanna for the song - with pathos and humor. The seven member band, under expert direction of accomplished Lou Forestieri at the piano, was outstanding and soulful, with the alto saxophone played by a lovely lady.
John’s post restaurateur career (for nearly four decades he was proprietor/host of renowned Papadakis Taverna in San Pedro, that was “beacon” of the harbor town that’s also the Port of Los Angeles) has been flourishing with several “albums” (CDs) including memorable ballads of 1940-60s, and original songs he’s composed. Link below for the music.
With his romantic repertoire, terrific back up band, and charming stories reflecting his Greek heritage, robust family, amazing career as premier restaurateur (Papadakis Taverna, San Pedro, CA – port of Los Angeles,), and of course stellar athlete of the USC Trojan football field, it’s a totally entertaining experience that “leaves ‘em wanting more.”
The big question is when and where next concert event will take place. Many have expressed desire that it might “Michael’s Tuscany Room” in historic downtown San Pedro. That’s for John to reveal, and let’s hope it’s soon as he continues to entertain with love and joy that uplifts one’s spirits like “flying to the moon” through the music and songs he shares.
Here’s a link to hear John’s vocals, with e-dress to contact him directly: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7_9wJfR44irq_khHShL5DA
INSTAGRAM- @thesinginglinebacker
Photo credit Taso Papadakis
Stephanie Mardesich, a native of San Pedro from a family who arrived in the harbor area over 100 years ago. An alumna of U.S.C. School of Cinematic Arts; founder-director of the LA Harbor International Film Festival; credited journalist and public relations consultant, she launched "Cinema Stephanie" film critique blogette in 2017. More recently, she created "Eclectic Culture" lifestyle stories and reviews blog. She is also co-producer with Jack Baric (S.P. native and R.P.V. resident) of the oral history project Stories of Los Angeles Harbor Area: For Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (SOLAHA) - Volume II debuted in March 2020
