Sandy Deanne

Sandy Deanne (born Louis Sandy Yaguda, January 30, 1943 ), also known as Sandy Yaguda, is an American vocalist who has been a member of Jay and the Americans since forming in 1960. Following the death of Howie Kane in 2023, he was the last founding member of Jay and the Americans still touring with the group until early 2024.

Early life Born Louis Sandy Yaguda in Brooklyn, New York City, he would later perform professionally as Sandy Deanne. His ambition to become a musician came along after seeing Elvis Presley on television and The Belmonts singing I Wonder Why. It was also his sisters singing and dancing lessons that grew his love for music: Jay and the Americans was formed by Deanne, alongside his boyhood friend Howie Kane, Jay Traynor, and Vance. In 2006, Jay Black filed for bankruptcy due to gambling debts, and sold the rights to the name "Jay and the Americans" to the other members as a way to pay it off, for $100,000. Sweeter Than Wine (2010), Keepin' the Music Alive (2011), and 45 RPM (2015).

In 2017, "Come a Little Bit Closer", a hit for Jay and the Americans in 1964, was featured in the soundtrack for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. The soundtrack album went gold in the U.S. and sold more than 2.5 million copies worldwide.

Following the death of Howie Kane in March 2023, Deanne is the last founding member of Jay and the Americans still touring with the group (Sanders joined in 1962).

Personal life Deanne currently lives in Long Beach, New York.