Senate Resolution No. 2389 BY: Senator BORRELLO HONORING Johnny Farina upon the occasion of being named Italian American of the Year, in conjunction with Italian American Day on May 20, 2024 WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among us all; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Johnny Farina upon the occasion of being named Italian American of the Year, in conjunction with Italian American Day on Monday, May 20, 2024; and WHEREAS, Part of the rock band Santo & Johnny, Johnny Farina has been touring Europe, the United States, Mexico, and Australia for over 50 years; the duo has recorded and released 35 albums and 50 singles in their career; and WHEREAS, Covered by more than 200 artists and featured in movies, TV programs and series, and commercials, Santo & Johnny earned a Gold Record for their song "Sleep Walk" in 1959; the composition has been recently credited with over four million BMI certified airplays since its release; "Sleep Walk" was recognized again in 1999 with a Grammy Award for the Best Pop Instrumental Performance, as recorded the year before by The Brian Setzer Orchestra; and WHEREAS, Seeing great success, Santo & Johnny had a TV show in Italy; they were also inducted into the Italian Music Hall of Fame for their instrumental version of "The Godfather Theme," which remained at the top of the Italian music charts for 26 weeks in 1973 and also earned a Gold Record; and WHEREAS, In 2002, Santo & Johnny were inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame in St. Louis, to recognize their outstanding work on the unique instrument over the years; and WHEREAS, Johnny Farina has been recognized for his work as a solo artist by publications such as The Daily News; and WHEREAS, As a testament to his artistic ability, Johnny Farina was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 for his work on "Sleep Walk" and to acknowledge the song's repeated use in full length feature films at the Long Island Film Festival; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Johnny Farina upon the occasion of being named Italian American of the Year, in conjunction with Italian American Day on May 20, 2024; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Johnny Farina.