Founding Mystics Singer Reveals Story Behind 'Hushabye'

Spending 16 weeks on Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #20, The Mystics' hit record "Hushabye" was a doo-wop sensation in 1959. The song would eventually go on to be covered by The Beach Boys on their 1964 album, "All Summer Long." Yet, the story behind the song, and the Mystics themselves, has never been shared - until now.

Written by founding Mystics member Al Contrera, "Hushabye: The Mystics, the Music, and the Mob" (published by Balboa Press) tells the true story of how five teenage friends from Brooklyn formed a street corner a cappella group in 1957 and became successful recording artists. Contrera reflects on their successes, disappointments and heartbreaks, as well as how the group helped certain celebrities launch careers in the music industry.

The story centers on the five Mystics - Al Contrera, Phil Cracolici, Albee Cracolici, Bob Ferrante and George Galfo - and is a tale of redemption. Contrera describes a group of misguided teenagers "heading in the wrong direction" who were ultimately saved by their friendship and shared passion for music.

Contrera hopes readers interested in 1950s and '60s will find the book particularly fascinating, as "Hushabye" offers insights into the music industry during the era. Beyond that, the story shares a timeless message. Says Contrera, "Readers should take away the fact that it is possible for anyone to succeed in anything as long as you work hard and do not be afraid to take a chance."

The book is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/Hushabye-Mystics-Music-Al-Contrera/dp/1982200294.

"Hushabye"
By Al Contrera
Hardcover | 6 x 9 in | 234 pages | ISBN 9781982200299
Softcover | 6 x 9 in | 234 pages | ISBN 9781982200275
E-Book | 234 pages | ISBN 9781982200282
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author
Al Contrera is an original member of the Mystics and continues to entertain audiences with the Classics, the Mystics and the Brooklyn Reunion. During his career as a mechanical engineer, he worked on projects from New York City to Cairo and is currently working in New York City. Contrera has two daughters, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and lives in New York City and New Jersey.

Balboa Press, a division of Hay House, Inc. - a leading provider in publishing products that specialize in self-help and the mind, body, and spirit genres. Through an alliance with indie book publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the self-publishing model. For more information, visit balboapress.com. To start publishing your book with Balboa Press, call 877-407-4847 today. For the latest, follow @balboapress on Twitter.

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