In Loving Memory of Tommy Mara
Tommy Mara peacefully departed on January 16, 2021 leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and a profound passion for entertainment.
Tommy's journey was a tapestry of diverse experiences, from his early days in New York to the warmth of Florida, where he built a life with his beloved wife, Victoria.
A man of many talents and professions, Tommy donned various hats throughout his life – house painter, truck driver, restaurant owner, dinner theater proprietor, and catering hall owner. However, the hat he treasured most was that of an entertainer. The stage was his second home, and his joy in singing resonated with audiences worldwide during his time as the lead singer of The Crests.
Tommy's warm spirit and generosity touched everyone he encountered. He never met a stranger and was always willing to offer a helping hand. To know him was to experience a blessing.
Tommy will be dearly missed by friends and fans across the globe.
While the physical presence of Tommy Mara may be gone, his spirit and music will live on forever in the hearts of those who were touched by his extraordinary life.
APRIL 10, 1955 – JANUARY 16, 2021
THE CRESTS
Featuring The Voice Of
​
TOMMY MARA
A star was born on April 10, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York. Music has always been a part of Tommy Mara's life. As a young child, he sang his heart out while his grandmother played the piano. As a teenager, he played the drums and sang in a local rock band. Even then, his vocal ability and stage presence turned heads. Tommy Mara's brilliant musical career encompasses several genres of music, many incredible on-stage experiences, and definitely has made his place on the oldies circuit.
Tommy Mara's career does not just encompass oldies music. He has lent his vocal genius to several bands throughout the years. After moving to Florida, he joined a Southern Rock group, playing the drums and singing. From there he moved onto another rock group that specialized in original music. Perhaps Tommy's farthest stretch musically was when he joined a country band. Knowing very little about country music, he still left a great impression on the people he touched. His next big step was to the Top 40 scene. He wowed himself and the audience with his vocal ability. At this point Tommy joined forces with local oldies act, The Saints. After several shows the group became known as “Tommy and The Saints”. The Tampa Bay oldies circuit hasn't been the same since then!
Tommy has proudly worked with a veritable who’s who of the oldies world. He puts every ounce of energy that he has into every show and accepts nothing less then perfection from himself and those around him. His dedication to his craft has earned him the respect of so many in the business. Tommy has been referred to as the Pavarotti of Doo Wop, and is now known as “The Meatloaf of Doo Wop”.
His career highlight was when the Dream Team of Rock and Roll sang background for him. These people, who he idolized since he was a child, and the experience still leaves him speechless.
Tommy Mara has a very loyal group of fans. People are drawn to his passion for the music he sings. He brings tears to the eyes of strangers. He has a reputation for being a powerful singer and for having an incredible stage presence. And truly, his voice is a force to be reckoned with.
There are many vocalists that Tommy credits as having influenced his music. He admires Pavarotti for his power, Steve Perry of Journey for his vocal range, Frank Sinatra for his smooth voice and ability to touch an audience, Johnny Maestro for his beautiful voice and stage presence, and Joey Dee for his high energy.