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Pop singer reinvents career to satisfy musical creativity

Alfie Zappacosta has an American Music Award and two Juno Awards but little is known of the singer and songwriter.
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Alfie Zappacosta performs at Diners Rendezvous July 8.

Alfie Zappacosta has an American Music Award and two Juno Awards but little is known of the singer and songwriter.

Considered one of the best vocal talents in Canada, Zappacosta is known for hit singles such as Nothing Can Stand in Your Way, Passion, We Should Be Lovers and for his contribution of Overload to the Dirty Dancing soundtrack.

Zappacosta continues to write compelling lyrics and melodies, as he is also an accomplished guitarist, premier vocalist and actor.

In 1995, Zappacosta left his pop stardom behind to pursue a more intimate style of writing and performing.

The roots of his new sound started when he began playing solo before crowds at a Toronto club. Playing only guitar, he explored new harmonies and melodies, later combining rootsy elements such as harmonica and accordion, which eventually manifested itself in a contemporary jazz sound.

“The difficult part was finding an audience that was willing to sit and listen to my songs,” Zappacosta said. “I had to believe that a legitimate artist was allowed to grow and could be appreciated and accepted for producing music that was heartfelt and not what the industry felt was appropriate for the times.”

Zappacosta is charismatic and charming, elegant and tasteful in his stage persona and vocal delivery. He delivers a powerful yet playful performance and draws upon his extensive theatrical experience in his concerts.

Zappacosta performs at the Diners Rendezvous July 8, beginning at 8 p.m. Opening the show is Dan Oig.

Tickets $22 and available at the restaurant. Please call 250-740-1133.