Paul Anka: Music Man

What differentiated the early Paul Anka from his teen-idol contemporaries was his ability to write hit songs. “Diana,” “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” “You Are My Destiny,” and the Buddy Holly-covered “It Doesn't Matter Anymore,” not only sprung from Anka's lips, but from his pen as well. His biggest hit, “My Way,” would become a signature song first for Frank Sinatra, and then just about every crooner since, including, uh, Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols. This look at the career of the Canadian-born singer-songwriter begins with a recent visit to his hometown of Ottawa and features interviews with friends and associates, including Dick Clark, Burt Bacharach, Phil Everly, Frankie Avalon, and of course Donnie Osmond, who had a big hit in the early '70s with Anka's “Puppy Love.” Recounting his early success (his first hit record came at age 16), the program also documents how Anka persevered after the age of the teen idol ended with the British Invasion led by the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. The picture of Anka that emerges is that of a talented entertainer (he's shown working his band hard while rehearsing for an upcoming performance) and consummate businessman who has been able to stay active in a very fickle business for nearly fifty years. Recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)