Toscanini called Lanza’s voice the “voice of the century.” He was the first singer to earn gold records with million-sellers in both classical and popular categories. His MGM masterpiece, The Great Caruso, was one of the top grossing film of 1951. After losing his MGM contract, he slowly declined in a haze of alcohol and food binges, weight gains and losses. He left Hollywood and moved to Italy to rebuild his career and died of a heart attack at 38, leaving behind four children and a wife who died five months later of a drug overdose. Vintage fountain pen signature and inscription, “Hello John - The very best always from Mario Lanza, London,” on a light green 7 x 4.5 album page, dated March 1, 1958. In fine condition. R&R COA.
