DETROIT HOMETOWN VOCALIST
Gino Washington Rock Star, grew up on the east side of Detroit. He attended Pershing High School and later joined the Army. However, music was always his focus in life, and this attitude propelled him into national stardom.
THE MAKING OF GINO WASHINGTON ROCK STAR
In 1963 and 1964, this stardom produced two local hits: “Out of This World” and “Gino Is a Coward”. To his credit, Washington was the first artist signed to Ric-Tic Records. A “win-win” for both. It seemed the young rock star was on his way. But . . . Uncle Sam came knocking and in 1964 he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving in Japan and South Vietnam. When he returned, his music career stalled, but he gained national resurgence by hosting a variety television show in Detroit during the 1970s. Click on the link and check-out the variety television show.
THE GINO WASHINGTON SHOW
TV INTERVIEWS SPARKED MUSIC REBIRTH
The TV show gave Gino an opportunity to revive his own music. It was on the show that many family members heard his music for the first time, saw him dance and understand why he was dubbed the “Jumpin’ Gino.” His hit songs were revived and attracted audiences across America and the world. It should be noted that Gino was not the only Washington who chose entertainment as a career choice. Sister Shirley appeared in small roles on television. In fact, because of Gino’s success, music touched nieces and nephews. How does Gino relate to the Ferguson-Dotson clan? His mother was the niece of Robert Lee Ferguson. What is the rock star doing now?
THE LATEST ON GINO WASHINGTON
Well . . . it looks like Gino lands on TV again! Recently, he appeared with “crooner and heart-throb” Nephew Keith Washington on the popular TV show “Unsung.” It was a touching and heartfelt recounting of Keith’s life. Of course, Gino added to the moment. The episode will replay Wednesday at 9 PM on TV ONE. Grab a seat!