Fun Trivia : Orlando, Tony

Structure Sub-topic of: Music L-P Quizzes Interesting Questions, Facts and Information There are a total of 10 general entries. Special Topics 'Knock Three Times' 'Tie A Yellow Ribbon' ('Round The Ole' Oak Tree)'

Interesting Questions, Facts, and Information

Orlando, Tony

Where was Tony Orlando born?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


New York City, NY. Tony Orlando was born Michael Anthony Orlando Cassivitis on April 3, 1944 in New York City, New York. According to Tony, the name Michael was given to him in honor of his paternal grandfather. Orlando was added in honor of his uncle: his mother's brother.



Tony had a younger half-sister, Rhonda, who was born with a devastating illness. Which one?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


cerebral palsy. Rhonda was a source of joy and inspiration for Tony. He speaks lovingly about her sweet, beautiful personality and her ability to give unconditional love. Because of her illness, Rhonda was unable to care for herself. Therefore, Tony and other family members shared the responsibility of caring for her. Sadly, Rhonda passed away at the age of 21.



Tony was given his first 'big break' by a music industry giant for whom he auditioned. Who was it?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


Don Kirshner. Eventually, Tony would work for or with all four men, but it was Don Kirshner who gave him his 'big break'. Kirshner hired Tony to write songs and to sing demo recordings for himself and for other artists. He earned fifty dollars per week. However, since Tony was only sixteen years old at the time, his mom had to sign his contract!



Tony mentions having gotten a fan letter from a fellow recording artist who loved the record, "Halfway to Paradise". Who wrote it?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


Elvis Presley. Tony recalls walking into Don Kirshner's office one day and being given a 'fan letter' which congratulated him on making a great record. The author was Elvis Presley. Tony remembers that his initial reaction was to go looking for the songwriters, Carole King and Gerry Goffin, so that they could share in the joy of the moment.



Tony candidly discusses his addiction to cocaine. He recalls voluntarily admitting himself to a rehabilitation facility. While he was there, a bully took a prized possession from Tony: a ring given to him by his father. Another facility resident who identified himself as a famous celebrity intervened for Tony and retrieved the ring for him. What was the supposed celebrity identity of this resident?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


Shaun Cassidy. In a hilarious chapter, Tony recounts the story of his stay in the rehabilitation facility. His encounter with 'Shaun Cassidy' is a touching but funny story. Having committed himself, Tony was only required to stay in the facility for 72 hours. However, he certainly gives the impression that it was a rough 72 hours!



Tony had the opportunity to star in the play, "Barnum". Part of the preparation for the part involved learning to walk a tightrope. Despite his many tries, Tony failed to make it across the rope without falling. A young man who was watching nearby offered to demonstrate how to cross successfully and gave Tony valuable advice. What was the advice?

Tony Orlando: "Halfway to Paradise"


Reach high. As the young man demonstrated, when Tony learned to 'reach high', holding his hands straight up into the air, he was able to make it across without falling. Initially, however, it did take Tony three tries to make it all the way across!