NAMES IN THE NEWS : Singer Stallone Big on Big Bands

Singer Frank Stallone says he considers himself a keeper of a the big beat flame in an era of overproduced technopop.

If not performed “the music will die, it’s real important to keep it alive,” he said.

Stallone, brother of actor Sylvester Stallone, said he is drawing from the classic works of Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Bobby Darren and Frank Sinatra during his current engagement at Trump Castle Casino Resort.

He said he decided four years ago to move away from rock ‘n’ roll and B-grade movies toward the big band sound and better film roles.

Stallone just landed a part in “Hudson Hawk,” starring Bruce Willis and Isabella Rosellini.

“After all the hoopla from “Stayin’ Alive’ everything went sour,” Stallone said, referring to the “Saturday Night Fever” sequel that inspired little fever.