FIRST OFF . . .

An all-star cast of old-time rock ‘n’ rollers will get together in New York on March 6 to record a benefit single aimed at establishing a fund for the construction of a rock ‘n’ roll retirement home planned for Clearwater, Fla., it was announced Thursday. The project is being spearheaded by Joey Dee (of “Peppermint Twist” fame) and his Starlight Starbright foundation. Among the artists set to record the song “For the Love of Rock ‘n’ Roll” are Charlie Thomas of the Drifters, Shirley Alston-Reeves of the Shirelles, Carl Gardner of the Coasters, Tommy James, Lou Christie and Gary (U.S.) Bonds. According to a project spokesman, Dee saw the need for a retirement facility for rock performers when, in 1984, Jackie Wilson died in a hospital charity ward after having been comatose since a 1975 heart attack on stage in New Jersey. An album of classic hits by some of the rock artists and an accompanying book are also in the works.