Paul Anka Biography

At Fisher Park High School, Anka was part of a vocal trio called the Bobby Soxers. He began composing songs, and taking piano and guitar lessons. Anka auditioned for local television shows at fifteen with no success so, in 1956, he went to Los Angeles.

His uncle became interested in Paul's music and arranged for the industry contacts he needed. An appointment was made with Modern Records. Paul recorded a couple songs for Modern, but they did poorly. Disappointed, Anka returned to Canada.

However, vacationing in New York, he met the director of artists and repertoire for ABC-Paramount, and a contract was signed shortly after.

Within a month, ABC-Paramount was ready to record Anka's 'Diana'. He signed for a tour, by the beginning of which 'Diana' was top of the charts.

His next single, 'You Are My Destiny' reached the Top Ten in early 1958. Anka then released singles every few months. However, they didn't do nearly as well as his previous records.

Anka was chosen to play a role in the low budget movie, 'Girl's Town'. In the movie he sang 'Lonely Boy', which became one of his biggest hits. As a result, Anka was now in demand around the world.

Now 18, Anka changed his image to appeal to the adult customers of the supper clubs. In 1960, he became the youngest performer to headline the Copacabana, but his popularity began fading with teenagers.

In 1962, he switched record labels and signed with RCA Victor. During the five years after 1963, Anka failed to place a single on the charts. In 1974, Anka signed with United Artist, and his first release, '(You're) Having My Baby', went to Number One.

Anka was credited with writing twelve songs that became gold records, most of which he recorded. However, Anka wrote a number of songs for others, including 'My Way', Frank Sinatra's signature song.

Today Paul Anka is a multi-millionaire, thanks to his profitable back catalogue. He became a US citizen in 1990.