Jimmy Beaumont, the lead singer of the Skyliners, one of the most popular doo-wop groups of the 1950s and 1960s, passed away on October 7, 2023, at his home in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. He was 76 years old. The cause of death was not disclosed, but he had been suffering from heart problems, according to CBS Pittsburgh.
A Star is Born
Jimmy Beaumont was born on October 21, 1940, in the Knoxville neighborhood of Pittsburgh. He began singing at an early age and joined a local vocal group called the Crescents when he was 15. In 1958, he met Joe Rock, a songwriter and manager, who helped him form the Skyliners with Janet Vogel, Wally Lester, Jackie Taylor, and Joe Verscharen.
The Skyliners made their debut in 1959 with “Since I Don’t Have You”, a ballad co-written by Beaumont and Rock, and featuring Beaumont’s soaring falsetto and Vogel’s soprano. The song was a huge hit, reaching #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the R&B chart. It also became one of the most covered songs of all time, with versions by artists such as Art Garfunkel, Don McLean, Barbra Streisand, and Guns N’ Roses, among others.
The Skyliners’ Legacy
The Skyliners continued to record and perform throughout the 1960s and 1970s, scoring more hits such as “This I Swear”, “Pennies from Heaven”, and “It Happened Today”. They also appeared in movies and TV shows, such as American Graffiti and Happy Days. They were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002 and the Doo-Wop Hall of Fame in 2006.
Beaumont remained the leader and the main songwriter of the group, even as the lineup changed over the years. He also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles. He was still performing until recently, with a revamped version of the Skyliners. He told KDKA’s Dave Crawley in 2009 that he was grateful for the diverse and loyal fan base that supported him and his music for over 50 years.
A Sad Farewell
Jimmy Beaumont’s death was mourned by his family, friends, fans, and fellow musicians. A statement on the Skyliners’ official website said, “We are deeply saddened beyond words as we inform all our relatives, friends, and fans of the passing of James L. (Jimmy) Beaumont on October 7, 2023. The sorrow we feel at this time cannot adequately be expressed, but your thoughts and prayers are now needed for his entire family and all those who were near and dear to his heart.”
The statement also praised Beaumont’s contributions to the pop music industry and his unique, powerful, and melodic voice. It said, “One way or another, Jimmy Beaumont touched the world with music. How he touched our lives is his living legacy. Jimmy became part of us and this was his personal satisfaction. His affect on musical style is truly remarkable.”
Jimmy Beaumont will be remembered as one of the greatest singers and songwriters of the doo-wop era, and as the voice of the Skyliners. He left behind a rich and timeless musical legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
