Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons may be an old band, but they are still relevant. You have probably heard their songs at weddings or in your grandparents car, but their music is still as catchy today as it was in the mid-60’s. Since their music remains timeless, Clint Eastwood decided to direct a film titled, Jersey Boys, about their rise to fame, which hits theaters on June 20th. Much different from a musical movie – which some people love to hate – Jersey Boys will tell the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, while obviously incorporating their music.We are so amped for June 20th, that we couldn’t help but remember all the other musical memoirs that have come out in the past. Inspired by the upcoming film Jersey Boys, this week’s dinner and a movie is all about the not-so-muscial musicals!
El Cantante + Sofrito Verde (via The Latin Kitchen)
Image via DivaReview
El Cantante is a film that celebrates the Latin flavor of singer Hector Lavoe, who brought salsa into the spotlight of American culture in the mid 70’s. He was born and raised in Puerto Rico, but came to America where his music infected people. This movie remembers Lavoe for all of his success, but also brings his personal problems to light. Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez play Lavoe and his wife Puchi so well, making it almost impossible to tear your eyes from the screen. A spicy movie deserves a spicy recipe. Try this traditional Puerto Rican Sofrito Verde with some chips to get your evening of musical education started!
Walk the Line + Tennessee Honey Cocktails (via The Gourmet Connection)
Image via Free Movie Posters
Just another couple that makes the music seem insignificant: Johnny Cash and June Carter, played by Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon. Johnny Cash is an American country music legend, but he would be nothing without his other half June Carter. This movie highlights Cash’s rise, subsequent fall, and turbulent relationship with Carter, while resurrecting the music that the American south once (and still does) loved. For Walk the Line we recommend trying a Tennessee Honey Tea. The website above has three different recipes for it, so whip that drink up to your liking! Only the stiffest drinks for Mr. Johnny Cash!
Dream Girls + Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Kielbasa (via Fake Ginger)
Image via History in the Movies
Oh Motown… we can just never get enough. Much like Jersey Boys, Motown music never seems to be forgotten. Although Dream Girls is not a film about any historical singing group, it is largely based off the success of The Supremes. This film remembers a time when Detroit was turning out new music groups like it was its job, making Motown Records one of the most talked about pieces of pop culture. When researching traditional dishes from Detroit, kielbasa came up as a must-have. Try this recipe for sweet and sour kielbasa while you have your ears serenaded by the lovely Dream Girls.
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