Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals groovin’ into Newton

NEWTON — The Newton Theatre welcomes Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals on Friday, Aug. 28 at 8 p.m.

Legendary singer songwriter, Felix Cavaliere, has a 50-year career that includes the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriter Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and Grammy Hall of Fame.

The classically trained pianist, born in Pelham, N.Y., idolized Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, and Sam Cook. Felix Cavaliere pioneered a fresh, rock and roll sound. He left Syracuse University to form the "Escorts," and become a backup musician for Joe Dee and the Starliters and later Sandy Scott, who knew that his legendary next stop would be the beginning of a hall of fame career.

Early in 1965, Cavaliere formed the "Young Rascals" with Dino Danelli, Eddie Brigati, and Gene Cornish. That October, they caught the attention of promoter/manager Sid Bernstein with their high-energy set at Long Island’s elite club, Barge. Signed to Atlantic Records, and now called "The Rascals," the hit "Good Lovin’" struck No. 1 in February 1966. They followed suit with a string of hits like "I’ve Been Lonely Too Long," "Groovin’" (No. 1 in 1967), "How Can I Be Sure," "A Girl Like You," "A Beautiful Morning," and "People Got to Be Free" (No. 1 in 1968).

By the early 70s, "The Rascals" experimented with more jazz-influenced sounds, and moved to Columbia Records. They disbanded in 1972. Felix Cavaliere’s solo career thrived during this decade. He released his self-titled debut album with Todd Rundgren producing.

His follow-up albums were "Destiny," "Castles in the Air" (with #2 Top 40 hit Only a Heart Sees), and "Dreams in Motion." In 2008 he collaborated with Stax guitar legend, Steve Crooper, on the Grammy-nominated "Nudge it Up a Notch" and again in 2010 with "Midnight Flyer."

Felix Cavaliere calls Nashville home base, where he is constantly collaborating and writing new material. He’s also finishing his memoir and touring with Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals.

Tickets for Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals range from $39 to $64. Purchase tickets by visiting www.thenewtontheatre.com or contact the box office at 973-383-3700.

The historic Newton Theatre, located at 234 Spring Street in Newton.