ARTISTPaul Anka

Paul Anka was born in Ottawa, Ontario, in 1941. He began performing as an impressionist at age 12 and was writing songs and entering singing contests by 14. His first single, "I Confess," appeared on the Riviera label. In 1957, his composition "Diana" became his first hit, reaching number two in the United States and the top of the singles chart in the United Kingdom. Further successful songs included "Lonely Boy," "Put Your Head on My Shoulder," and "Puppy Love."

As the teen-idol craze faded, Anka turned toward an adult audience and broadened his work. He wrote songs for other performers, including Tom Jones' "She's a Lady," and the English lyrics for Frank Sinatra's "My Way." He also composed the theme for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, used by the program from 1962 to 1992, and appeared in films and television programs. In 1974, he returned to number one in the United States with "(You're) Having My Baby," recorded with Odia Coates. Later albums include Duets (2013), Making Memories (2021), Sessions (2022), and Inspirations of Life and Love (2026).