Gene Rockwell - Rosie (1970)

With his group, The Falcons, Gene first hit the scene – and the charts – in the ‘60s with his first single “Crazy Love”.

Back in the 60’s, his hit records were right up there with those of Elvis and The Beatles, played by every radio station, top of every hit parade and essential for every party.

His next release, “Heart”, was the biggest selling single in South Africa music history. Released in 1965, it sold more than a quarter of a million copies at the time of its release. Since then “Heart” has been re-released several times and included on countless compilations. It is no exaggeration to say that Gene Rockwell’s “Heart” has sold more than two million units taking all these releases into account.

Other hits confirmed Gene’s stature as a star on the South African music scene in 1976 he was awarded the international Shure Golden Microphone award for his contribution to the SA recording industry, joining such other honorees as Neil Diamond and Linda Ronstadt.

Two years later his single “Rosie” rocketed up the charts and was also released in Germany, Holland, Belgium, Canada and Australia.

Signing to BMG Records (Africa) as a producer and an artist, Gene made 1997 his year. Since signing to BMG he produced a “50’s and 60’s Medley” album, an “On the Road Tour” album, as well as new releases for Sally Vaughn, Billy Forrest and Morne Saayman. His own two albums – “Looking Back” and “Guitar Hits” – were released to coincide with the Legends On The Road tour.

At the end of 1997 Gene was diagnosed with cancer. Coming to terms with the disease, he made a promise to himself and to his many fans out there – e would continue his recording career and still do as many shows as possible.
Gene sadly passed away on 3 July 1998.