I was only 20 years old when, as a young songwriter, I had co-written a top ten song. As a result of that achievement I was invited to attend the 11th Annual Broadcast. Music Inc. Banquet & Dinner event. This special event was held on January 23rd, 1963.
At age 20, I was probably the youngest person in the room. It was held at the fancy Hotel Pierre in New York City.
Name artists such as, Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson, Brook Benton, Gene Pitney & Ray Charles were there. Big Name songwriters such as Neal Sedaka, Carole King, Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil were there too. Of course, Publishers, Don Kirshner, Berry Gordy Jr. & Bob Crewe along with the Four Seasons and the songwriter, Bob Gaudio were all there too.
As “Gary Weston”, I truly enjoyed this once-in-a-lifetime experience as I took in this incredible atmosphere sitting at a guest table in this gigantic ballroom. The word, “AWESOME” had not yet become commonplace description in our world, at that time.
I cannot remember any meal or any drink served then, but the people were the attraction for me. I remember that I sat next to Brook Benton. He and his singing partner, Dinah Washington were two of my mother’s favorite artists. Imagine, when I got home and told her I sat next to the man, himself how thrilled she would be?
I cannot even put into words, the evening which had proved to be the most memorable experience of my young life. I wasn’t even 21 yet, but I am sure I had (at least) a sip of wine or alcoholic drink! I was dizzy with elation. My head was “in the clouds”, for sure.
When my name was called, I was asked to stand, and those people around me smiled, I am sure, because of my 5’6″ height and obviously I never looked much older (then and now). I probably looked like I was 15 years old or less! If only my classmates could see me now! This evening, I couldn’t be any more proud of what I had achieved … MOSTLY OUT OF PURE LUCK!
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