STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Ray Monte, a professional drummer, musician, and son of the legendary Italian-American singer Lou Monte, will take stage center in Lorenzo’s Restaurant, Bar & Cabaret at the Hilton Garden Inn Friday, Feb. 27, where he’ll celebrate the music and comedy of his famous dad.
The younger Monte, who recorded with his father during the 1970s and ’80s, continues to honor his father’s legacy through live performances with hits like “Dominick the Donkey,” “Lazy Mary,” “Angelina,” and “Darktown Strutters’ Ball,” in addition to other popular tunes recorded for RCA and Reprise Records during the 1950s and ’60s.
It’s no secret that Lou Monte — who was born Louis Scaglione — delighted generations with his timeless hits until his passing in 1989. His son considers himself privileged to be able to bring that tradition to life right on stage.
MORE ON RAY MONTE
A drummer who studied under Sonny Igoe, Henry Adler, and Gary Chester, Ray recorded with his father and played with artists like Bucky Pizzarelli, Randy Weston, and the Conan O’Brien Band.
He appeared in the Broadway show “Mob Hits” iin 2003, and performed at the 2000 Songwriters Hall of Fame Banquet.
Philanthropists Lois and Richard Nicotra, owners of the Hilton Garden Inn, are known for personally welcoming each guest to their restaurants and event venues.
“We believe in creating moments that matter,” says Lois Nicotra. “People may count ‘hotel restaurants’ as not worth the visit, but nearly 25 years in business shows that we are here to stay and for good reason. Our culinary team attracts visitors from across the tri-state area. From spring through fall, our seasonal offerings feature fresh salad greens, herbs, and tomatoes grown on our own Nicotra Grown Rooftop Farm, making every meal as memorable as the music.”
The evening will also mark Richard Nicotra’s birthday celebration, adding an extra layer of fun to the gathering.
“This show is personal for us,” said Richard Nicotra. “My grandmother and mother adored Lou Monte. Hosting his son on my birthday makes this night even more meaningful. We invite everyone to join us — uniti nella musica e nella cultura — united in music and culture, to support Italian artists and keep these traditions alive. We can’t complain that no one celebrates our culture unless we are willing to come out and support performers who keep Italian culture and music alive.”
HOW TO RESERVE
Reserve seats by phoning Lorenzo’s at 718 477-2400 extension 5.
Tickets are $100 for general seating and $125 for premium seating, with both tickets inclusive of a full three-course dinner. Tickets are limited, and cabaret events often sell out, so reservations are necessary.