[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 71 (Monday, May 23, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E920]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO JOHN PAUL ``BUCKY'' PIZZARELLI

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 23, 2011

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the 
life of a truly outstanding individual, Mr. John Paul ``Bucky'' 
Pizzarelli, who is recognized as an exceptional and influential jazz 
guitarist. Bucky Pizzarelli hails from my hometown of Paterson, New 
Jersey, where he was honored by his admirers at Paterson Day on 
Saturday, May 21st, 2011.
  Bucky was born and raised in Paterson, where he learned to play 
guitar and banjo at a young age. He truly has music in his blood, as he 
learned his craft from his uncles, who were musicians. His first 
professional engagement came at the ripe age of 17, when he joined 
Vaughn Monroe's Dance Band. He honed his skills with Monroe's ensemble 
for several years, although his career was briefly interrupted when he 
was called to serve his country in Europe during the Second World War 
as a member of the U.S. Army.
  In 1952, Bucky became a staff musician for NBC, eventually joining 
the house band for famed television host Johnny Carson. He has played 
alongside major acts such as Dion and the Belmonts, Benny Goodman, and 
his close friend and fellow guitar great Les Paul.
  Bucky is no stranger to Washington, DC. He visited the White House 
several times, performing for President Ronald Reagan, fellow musician 
President Bill Clinton, and former First Lady Pat Nixon.
  In addition to his professional successes, Bucky is a committed 
family man. His sons, John and Martin, his daughter, Mary, and his 
daughter-in-law, Jessica, have all carried on the Pizzarelli legacy as 
musicians. Bucky has collaborated with them on many of their 
recordings.
  Later, Bucky returned to serve his hometown of Paterson as a member 
of the music faculty at William Paterson University, passing on his 
talents to the next generation of New Jersey musicians. His tireless 
energy and enthusiasm for his art should serve as an example for all 
Americans.
  Today, Bucky resides with his wife, Ruth, in Saddle River, New 
Jersey, not too far from his roots in Paterson. A true renaissance man, 
he continues to be an avid painter in addition to his musical talents.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to learning about and recognizing 
individuals like Bucky Pizzarelli.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Bucky's family and 
friends, all the musicians and fans of his music whose lives he has 
touched, and me in recognizing Mr. John Paul ``Bucky'' Pizzarelli.

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