The Best Frank Sinatra Biographies and Why 'Sinatra and Me' Stands Out

Frank Sinatra, the iconic crooner and legend of American music, has captured the imagination of many with his rich, complex life and career. Various biographies have been written about him, each adding unique insights into his life and legacy. However, one stands out as a standout choice for those seeking a profound understanding of the diva.

Why Sinatra and Me by Tony O’Oppidano is the Best Sinatra Biography

For my opinion, Sinatra and Me: In The Wee Small Hours by Tony O’Oppidano is the best Frank Sinatra biography. This book provides a remarkably intimate and detailed look at Frank's life, primarily through the eyes of his closest friend, Tony O’Oppidano. O’Oppidano, who spent hours a day with Sinatra, offers a perspective that is both authentic and candid. Unlike traditional biographies, this work is akin to an autobiography, allowing readers to delve deeply into Sinatra’s personal and professional world.

Comprehensive and Well-Researched Biographies

There are several notable biographies of Frank Sinatra, each offering valuable insights into his life and career:

1. The Two-Volume Biography by Jeremy Kaplan

Kaplan’s two-volume biography is comprehensive and well-researched, covering Sinatra's life from his early days to his later years. This detailed narrative delves into Sinatra’s complex personality, his relationships, and his intricate involvement in the music industry. It provides a thorough look at the man behind the microphone, making it an indispensable resource for Sinatra enthusiasts.

2. The Biography by Thomas Connery

This biography provides a detailed account of Sinatra’s life, including his rise to fame, personal struggles, and connections to organized crime. It includes extensive interviews and research, making it a well-rounded and factual account of Sandy’s journey.

3. The Biography by Kip Shipman

Focused on Sinatra’s cultural impact and legacy, this biography explores how he became an icon in American music and film. Shipman’s work offers a deep dive into the cultural significance of Frank Sinatra, providing readers with a broader understanding of his influence beyond the stage.

4. Frank Sinatra: My Father's Daughter by Tina Sinatra

While not a traditional biography, Tina Sinatra’s personal account My Father's Daughter provides a poignant perspective of her father’s life and career, offering a family viewpoint that is both intimate and insightful. This book is a valuable addition to any collection seeking a more personal understanding of Frank.

Personal Recommendations and Additional Resources

While many books and documentaries about Frank Sinatra are highly regarded, some stand out for their unique perspectives. The Voice: Frank Sinatra, 1915-1955 is considered the definitive biography, covering Sinatra's rise to fame. It is eminently readable and very entertaining, providing a comprehensive look at his early career and first great comeback, including his Academy Award-winning performance in From Here to Eternity.

Additionally, the four-hour HBO documentary called ‘All or Nothing at All’ is highly recommended. This documentary, while not strictly a biography, offers a rich historical context of Sinatra’s life and is simply excellent. Another personal recommendation is Pete Hamill’s Why Sinatra Matters, which, though harder to find, provides profound insights into the enduring legacy of Frank Sinatra.

I'm Looking Forward to the Second Volume

Lastly, I'm eagerly awaiting Jeremy Kaplan's second volume of his comprehensive biography, as the first volume was terrific. It is certain to provide even more depth and insight into the life of Frank Sinatra.