Bobby Rydell Returning to the Suncoast Showroom, 10/17-18

Bobby Rydell, all-American boy of the Baby Boom era, will perform his rock 'n' roll hits at the Suncoast Showroom Oct. 17 and 18.

With good looks, fame and talent, Robert Ridarelli - better known as Bobby Rydell - is considered an original American idol. Rydell launched his successful solo act in 1959 after a teenage gig as drummer for Rocco and the Saints, where he played with trumpet player Frankie Avalon. The hits flowed as Rydell rocked up the charts with "We Got Love," "Kissin' Time," "Wild One," "That Old Black Magic," "I'll Never Dance Again" and "Forget Him," among others. Rydell recorded 34 Top 40 hits, and is recognized by Billboard as one of the "Top Five Artists" of the early 1960s.

Aside from selling millions of records, Rydell enjoyed fame as a regular on 1960s television, appearing on "American Bandstand," "The Red Skelton Show" and "The Milton Berle Show." In 1963, Rydell was also featured in the classic film "Bye Bye Birdie" as Ann-Margret's boyfriend, Hugo Peabody.

Rydell began performing at a young age in Philadelphia doing impressions as a kindergartener. His interest in music developed thanks to the city's big band hotspots, which he attended with his father. A storybook career followed, and Rydell is now celebrated for his profound influence on popular music. His impact on the era is evidenced in the hit movie "Grease," where the producers chose Rydell High as the name of the school where the action takes place-a tribute to Rydell and the era in which the popular music was set.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are available from $29.95, plus tax and fees, and can be purchased at any Boyd Gaming box office, by calling 702.284.7777, or visiting www.suncoastcasino.com.