METAL MAN

Pat Boone’s decision to record heavy-metal material (Pop Eye, Feb. 18) is probably an idea that has been germinating ever since he appeared on an awards show with Cheap Trick (at the time of their “Ain’t That a Shame” cover). While it would be more interesting to hear Boone interpret hard-core punk, his choosing of metal instead at least makes him appear to not be “bandwagon hopping.”

But the normally conservative Boone should not be afraid of anyone confiscating his idea. It’s highly unlikely Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams or even Tony Bennett will soon follow suit. Boone originally made rock ‘n’ roll appear safe and tame, and may also have the same effect on heavy metal. It would be exciting to hear Boone do “Highway to Hell” but would make more sense for him to tackle “Livin’ on a Prayer” instead.

His own huge hits of “Moody River,” “Don’t Forbid Me” and “Speedy Gonzales” would be looked at as rock ‘n’ roll standards had they been performed by someone else. Perhaps this undertaking will give Boone a small bit of the rock credibility that has thus far eluded him.

FRANK BEESON

Los Angeles