Connie Francis, the beloved singer behind the 1962 hit “Pretty Little Baby,” passed away at age 87. Though her song was released over 60 years ago, it recently went viral on TikTok, bringing her back into the spotlight and introducing her voice to a new generation.
Friend Announces Passing with Heavy Heart
Ron Roberts, a close friend of Francis, shared the sad news on Facebook. “It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that I inform you of the passing of my dear friend Connie Francis last night,” he wrote. He added, “I know Connie would want her fans to be among the first to hear this news.”
Originally released in 1962, “Pretty Little Baby” found a new life on social media nearly six decades later. Influencers and celebrities alike used the song in their videos across multiple platforms. This unexpected revival pushed Francis back into public attention.
Grateful for Newfound Fans
In one of her final social media posts, Francis expressed joy and gratitude for her sudden surge in popularity. She said she was “thrilled and overwhelmed” by the response. She thanked several big names including Kylie Jenner, Timothée Chalamet, Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and others for featuring her song, contributing to over 17 billion plays.
Appreciating Success Before Passing
It’s heartwarming that Francis witnessed this renewed success. She embraced the love from a new generation and consistently thanked her new fans online. Her appreciation reflected a spirit grateful for the connection music can create across time.
Health Struggles and Hospital Stay
Recently, Connie Francis revealed health issues and shared updates from the hospital. Radio host Cousin Brucie mentioned she was in the ICU, which Francis later confirmed herself on Facebook. Despite her health battles, she remained engaged with fans until near the end.
Open About Past Misdiagnoses
In a 2011 interview with The Village Voice, Francis spoke candidly about her past. She revealed that she was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, ADHD, and attention-deficit disorder. Her openness helped shed light on the challenges she faced beyond the music industry.
Remembering Connie Francis
May Connie Francis rest in peace. Her music continues to inspire and connect people worldwide. Feel free to share this tribute with anyone interested in her life and legacy.