Hitmakers bring harmonies to MSU Riley Center

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Subtract their string of hits from the 1960s and it would have been a very dull decade indeed. “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Walk Like a Man” are just a drop in their bucket of trademark songs.

This veritable who’s who of harmonizing has come together for The Hit Men tour featuring the former stars of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. The Hit Men make their way to the MSU Riley Center in downtown Meridian on Friday, Aug. 2, for a 7:30 p.m. performance.

When you consider the chart-toppers of the 60s, 70s, and 80s, there is hardly one that was not connected to an individual touring with The Hit Men. Lee Shapiro was an arranger and keyboardist for the Four Seasons, and he’s also collaborated with many musical legends, including Barry Manilow and Paul Schaffer. Gerry Polci, who sang lead on the Four Seasons hit “December, 1963 (Oh What a Night),” has recorded music for numerous television shows and commercials. Figure in the staggering resumes of additional members Jimmy Ryan, Larry Gates, and Russ Velazquez, and the group’s reach is extended to include icons such as Carly Simon, Jim Croce, Tommy James & The Shondells, and Elton John, to name a few.

If you loved the music of the 60s, or if you enjoyed the hit play Jersey Boys, then this concert is a must-see for you.

Tickets are $28 and $22 at the MSU Riley Center box office, which is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets can be purchased online at www.msurileycenter.com or by calling the box office at 601-696-2200.