I'm going back a little further than usual here. Bing Crosby was the major singing sensation of the early 1930's and, of course, beyond. He was a huge star in all mediums of that time, and, according to his biographer, jazz critic Gary Giddings, the most admired man in post-WWII America.
Most everybody knows about "White Christmas" and his singing with the Andrews Sisters and the "Road" movies, tv specials, et al. But I got to listening to some of his earlier recordings a while back. I was struck by how much "zing" Bing could put into a song. Here's some fun scat-jazz singing by the guy Swing-Era bandleader Artie Shaw called "the first hip white guy."
Note: the song was originated by Sophie Tucker, hence her pics on part of the video.
Wow Bing Crosby was actualy young once. Thanks for sharing this vid. Bing is definately one of my favs. With out bing and Bob there would be no such a thing as a road movie. pata cake pata cake.. cheers Rod
ReplyDeleteBing changed popular music...he was the original "crooner."
ReplyDeleteNot my cup of tea. It was an interesting listen
ReplyDeleteRod--I used to get a kick of the Road movies, too--they might not click with audiences today, but they were pure fun. the "patty-cake/double punch " routine was only one of their nifty running jokes.
ReplyDeleteFrank--Bing was as big as Elvis in his day, no question. His iconic status has not survived, but he was still, as you said, a popular music breakout performer.
Fred--Crosby isn't for all tastes, including at least one of his own children. But that's another story.