IT WAS 100 years ago today that Francis Albert Sinatra was born in Hoboken, New Jersey to Italian immigrants.

The singer and actor went on to become one of the most beloved entertainers of the 20th century.

Sinatra lived a long and exciting life, known for his high-profile romances, friendships with the celebrity and political elite of the day and rumours links to the mob.

Despite a titillating public persona, he has endured for his incredible grasp of music and for having one of the 20th century’s most recognisable voices. Remarkably, Sinatra’s recording were always done live with his band.

He passed away on 14 May 1998 following a heart attack the previous year. He made no public appearances in the final year of his life.

Here are some of the moments that helped create the legacy he has today… 

Frank Sinatra performs for Broadway singer Vivian Blaine in 1943 AP / Press Association Images AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

AP / Press Association Images AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

Actress Ava Gardner straightens husband Frank Sinatra's tie before they leave the Washington Hotel, Mayfair, London, for the Midnight Matinee at the London Coliseum. PA Archive / Press Association Images PA Archive / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

Grace Kelly working with Frank Sinatra on High Society in 1956, shortly before her wedding to Prince Rainier III of Monaco AP / Press Association Images AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

Sinatra meeting Queen Elizabeth II in 1958 PA Archive / Press Association Images PA Archive / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

Sinatra with his son Frank Jr in 1963 AP Photo AP Photo

Sinatra with his bride Mia Farrow shortly after they were marred in 1966 AP Photo AP Photo

Sinatra singing a version of New York, New York in 1990 AP / Press Association Images AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

AP Photo / Eric Risberg AP Photo / Eric Risberg / Eric Risberg

Andrew Parsons / PA Andrew Parsons / PA / PA

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