Senator Jeff Klein Hosts the Legendary Chubby Checker at Loreto Park

Music icon ‘twists' the night away with hundreds of Bronxites

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) hosted the ‘King of The Twist,’ Chubby Checker, at Loreto Park on Wednesday. The concert, part of Senator Klein’s widely-popular Summertime Symphonies Series, was attended by more than 600 community members.

“Hundreds of Bronxites came out to twist the night away with Chubby Checker and I couldn’t have been more delighted. A music icon, Chubby Checker, wowed concertgoers with an array of impressive dance moves and his legendary voice. I'm proud to be able to offer great concerts like this one that bring the community together for a night of summer fun," said Senator Klein.

In 1959, Chubby Checker rose to national prominence with his debut record, The Class. The following year, Chubby released his smash hit, “The Twist,” which quickly rose to number one on the Billboard pop chart. The popular dance that accompanies, “The Twist,” was made famous by Checker with his performance on American Bandstand in 1960.

Checker explains today, “Dancing in the world changed when I came on the scene. Before The Twist, dancing apart to the beat didn’t exist in the world of rock’n’roll. And now, it’s all that people do when they dance to rock music.”

This year, Chubby Checker celebrates the 55th anniversary of, “The Twist,” – touring the country and dancing the night away with countless fans.

“I loved seeing all my fans at Loreto Park in The Bronx this summer,” Checker said. “We lit the fire and burned it down. Thanks to everyone who came out – what a night it was.”

Senator Klein’s Summertime Symphonies Series concludes with FDR Drive at Owen F. Dolen Park on Friday, August 28 at 7:00 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your blankets or chairs. For more information, please call Senator Klein’s office at (718) 822-2049.