Paul Anka

Paul Anka, born Paul Albert Anka on July 30, 1941 in Ottawa, Ontario, is a Canadian‑American singer, songwriter, and actor whose career spans more than six decades. From a modest upbringing as the son of Lebanese‑Christian immigrants, he sang in the choir of St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral and formed a vocal trio at Fisher Park High School, laying the groundwork for a meteoric rise. At age 14 he recorded his first single “I Confess,” and a year later his self‑penned ballad “Diana” vaulted him to international fame, topping charts in both Canada and the United States and cementing his status as one of the era’s premier teen idols. Throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s he delivered a string of hit singles, wrote classics such as “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” for Buddy Holly, and crafted the English lyrics to “My Way,” which became Frank Sinatra’s signature anthem.

Beyond his early pop success, Anka proved a versatile artist, composing the theme for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, collaborating with legends like Michael Jackson on “Love Never Felt So Good,” and achieving a 1970s resurgence with the duet “(You’re) Having My Baby” alongside Odia Coates. His acting credits span from cameo roles in The Longest Day to guest appearances on contemporary television series such as Gilmore Girls and The Masked Singer. In addition to his musical legacy, he has been honored with an Officer of the Order of Canada, a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, and a namesake street in Ottawa. Today, Anka continues to tour, record, and influence new generations, underscoring a career that remains as dynamic as it is enduring.