Crooner Frankie Laine dies at 93

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- Frankie Laine, whose booming voice found a home in songs as "I Believe" and "Mule Train," died Tuesday in Mercy Hospital in San Diego at the age of 93.

Laine entered the hospital over the weekend for hip replacement surgery, but suffered complications from the operation, the Los Angeles Times said.

In all, Laine sold more than 100 million records, enjoying popularity not only in the United states, but in Britain and Australia as well.

As his popularity peaked after the rise of rock 'n' roll, Laine's voice could be heard introducing the the TV western, "Rawhide" in the 1960s. He also sang commercial jingles -- notably for Campbell Soup's Manhandler soups -- and the theme to Mel Brooks' "Blazing Saddles."

Laine considered the blues and jazz as his roots, the Times said. Even though he started in jazz, Laine was sidetracked by arranger Mitch Miller, who fashioned him into the popular artist as he is remembered.

Laine is survived by his wife, two stepdaughters and two grandchildren.