David Brigati

David Brigati, an American singer whose soulful voice graced early rock and roll hits and later contributed significantly to the sound of The Rascals, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 85. Brigati, often affectionately known as "the fifth Rascal," left an indelible mark on the music industry through his versatile vocal talents and collaborative spirit. Born and raised in Garfield, New Jersey, Brigati's musical journey began in the vibrant doo-wop scene of the late 1950s.

Brigati first gained recognition as the lead singer of The Hi-Fives, a doo-wop group that recorded several songs on the Decca label in 1958. Their regional hit, "Dorothy," showcased Brigati's early vocal prowess and established his presence in the New York City and Philadelphia music circuits. His talent soon caught the attention of Joseph DiNicola, professionally known as Joey Dee, leading Brigati to join Joey Dee and the Starliters in late 1958 or 1959.

As a lead singer for Joey Dee and the Starliters, Brigati played a pivotal role in the group's rise to international fame. In 1960, the Starliters became the house band for New York City's iconic Peppermint Lounge, a hub of the burgeoning twist dance craze. Brigati co-led the vocals on the band's signature hit, "Peppermint Twist," which soared to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1962, solidifying his place in rock and roll history.

After departing the Starliters in 1964, Brigati's brother, Eddie Brigati, stepped in as his replacement and went on to co-found The Young Rascals. Despite not being an official member, David Brigati remained deeply connected to the group, providing uncredited but essential background vocals and arranging harmonies for many of The Rascals' recordings throughout the 1960s and 1970s. His contributions were particularly notable on albums like "Freedom Suite" and he sang lead on the title track of their 1968 album, "Once Upon a Dream."

Brigati's musical collaborations extended beyond The Rascals. In 1976, he lent his background vocals to the Average White Band's "Soul Searching" album. That same year, he teamed up with his brother Eddie to release their own album, "Lost in the Wilderness," under the name "Brigati," which included a disco rendition of The Rascals' hit "Groovin'."

His enduring legacy was celebrated when he performed with the four original members of The Rascals at their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1997. He also participated in a Rascals reunion show at the Tribeca Grill in New York City in 2010. In 2024, Brigati was honored at a tribute concert in Hackensack, New Jersey, a testament to his lasting impact on music and his community. David Brigati's distinctive voice and musicality will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.