Harry Lillis Crosby (Bing)

Harry Lillis Crosby (Bing) born 3rd May 1903 in Tacoma, Washington. Moved to Spokane as a child. Studied law at Gonzaga High School but got involved with local amateur dramatics and also began singing and playing drums with a local band, The Musicaladers where he met Al Rinker. They formed a double act and decided to turn professional, heading for Los Angeles where Rinker’s sister, Mildred Bailey, helped get them work in Vaudeville. Signed by Paul Whiteman in 1927 to appear with his orchestra. Appeared with Whiteman in film ‘The King of Jazz’ (1930) and made first record as a solo artist (My Kinda Love). Left Whiteman in 1930 and joined Gus  Aarnheim’s Band in Los Angeles. Shortly afterwards Bing appeared in a series of Mack Sennett comedy short films. Signed for radio, quickly became hugely popular. First major hit record with ‘Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams’. First major film ‘The Big Broadcast’ (1932). Many more over 30 year plus period, mostly musicals or comedies.
Outstanding, “Holiday Inn (in which he introduced ‘White Christmas’), Going My Way’, (Academy Award for his acting). The “Road to” series of wacky comedies co-starred with Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour. “High Society” with Cole Porter songs and starring with Louis Armstrong and long time friendly rival Frank Sinatra. Semi-retired but returned to live performing at London Palladium in 1976 to celebrate 50th Anniversary in show business. Several such shows followed before his sudden death on holiday in Spain on 14th October 1977, just four days after his last triumphant sell out (4,500 people) concert in Brighton.
(texts adapted from liner notes by Chris Ellis)