America's Polka King

“If you ever heard or saw Frank Yankovic perform, you have to read this book … Dolgan did a masterful job.” — Polka Times

The definitive biography of American music legend Frank Yankovic describes a life filled with triumphs, defeats, crises, and controversies.

An uninhibited original, Yankovic earned his international reputation. For half a century he wowed polka fans around the globe with hits such as “Just Because” and “The Blue Skirt Waltz.” He sold millions of records, won the first Polka Grammy, and found fame and fortune beyond his wildest dreams.

But behind the light-hearted sounds of the accordion stood a man obsessed. With a tumultuous touring schedule, a restless temper, disgruntled bandmates, and three failed marriages, Yankovic found himself struggling with dark emotions while playing the “happiest music on earth.”

Yankovic could be lovable, mean, generous, and petty, but always brave and audacious. Above all, he was an entertainer. There may never be another like him.

Includes a comprehensive discography.

Author Biography

Bob Dolgan wrote thousands of columns, articles, and feature stories about sports for The Plain Dealer over six decades. His writing has also appeared in the Sporting News, Baseball Digest, and Golf Digest. He was named one of the top 10 sports columnists in America by the Associated Press Sports Editors in 1985, and has won many other national, state, and local sportswriting awards. He wrote frequently about sports history for The Plain Dealer, including contributions to a nationally recognized 1997 series on black baseball players and a 2001 series on the 100th anniversary of the Cleveland Indians. In 1999 he was inducted into the Cleveland Journalism Hall of Fame. He is also author of The Polka King, with Frank Yankovic