1938-1939 Season with the John Scott Trotter Orchestra

The audience share for the season is 24.5, which puts the show in fourth place in the overall Hooper ratings for evening programs. Edgar Bergen’s show is again in top place with a rating of 35.1.

 

No.  116  20th October 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Johnny Mercer, Walter Connolly and Joan Bennett.

 

*I’ve Got A Pocketful Of Dreams

*I’ve Got A Pocketful Of Dreams (parody)                with Bob Burns

  Walter Connolly spot

*Silver On The Sage                                                     with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Bob Burns spot

*I Don’t Want To Play In Your Yard

  Hail, KMH                                                                  Ken Carpenter

*Oh! Bells Of KMH                                                      with The Paul Taylor Choristers          

*Laugh And Call It Love                                          

*What Have You Got That Gets Me                             with Joan Bennett

  The Lambeth Walk                                                      John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Small Fry                                                                      with Johnny Mercer

*Mutiny In The Nursery                                                with Johnny Mercer, Joan Bennett, Bob Burns, John Scott Trotter & Ken Carpenter

*Summer Souvenirs                                                       with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

“With the return of Bing Crosby, last Thursday, this choice radio dish again became complete but only for one instalment.  Crosby has taken twelve weeks out and Bob Burns stayed long enough for a reconciliation before ducking for a four week vacation.  The Kraft Music Hall remains one of the few air packages that abound in suavity and good taste as well as entertainment.  The combination of Crosby and Burns has a distinct and happy blend of personalities and there has been no let-down in the successful illusion of informality, camaraderie and surprise interpolation.  The banter continues to lean towards the refreshing side and is run off with a subdued leisureliness that makes it a welcome contrast to the over eager shows.  In guest formula, the show of last Thursday night, had but one difference - there was no representative from the concert field.  Instead of a masseur of the high C’s or an ivory digiteer, the program produced Johnny Mercer and a finely, diverting paraphrase of one of his latest tunes, “There’s (sic) Mutiny In The Nursery”.  Everybody in the cast but Walter Connolly participated and the upshot was as healthy a ‘plug’ as any film release would want.  The number is in Warner Brothers, “Going Places”.  Mercer and Crosby preceded this item with a banter of special material on the theme of “Small Fry” and a bit of lively minstrel crossfire that had Burns as interlocutor and a soft spot for the specimen of fine ‘needling’ that accompanied the routine.  The script’s gift for mixing bright badinage worked nicely in the case of the two screen guestees, Joan Bennett and Walter Connolly.  For the latter it finally got down to showing by example how the spoken word can be, by deft shading be given various meanings, while Miss Bennett devoted most of her conversation to answering the critics who couldn’t understand why her hair remained so firmly set in “The Texans”, despite her encounters with blizzards, dust storms, floods and whatnot.  She also joined Crosby in applying their tonsils to the lyrics and melody of a current pop number.  About the only element in this Thursday event that seems to show signs of sliding off key is the sustained gong-ringing gag.  It used to be funny.  Carroll Carroll, the show’s writer should be able to dig up a substitute before the current one becomes an irritant. 

(“Variety” 26th October 1938)

 

“Bing Crosby will return from his prolonged summer vacation just in time to lead his Music Hall ‘co-workers’ and guests into the newly completed Hollywood Radio City at 9 pm”

 (“New Orleans Times-Picayune” 20th October 1938)

 

Bob Burns appeared in this first programme of a new season with Bing but then missed the next four shows while vacationing in Honolulu.  There was some disagreement, in the press, at the time, as to his exact destination, which was probably due to someone’s confusion between “Hawaii” and “Havana”.  Confirmation can be obtained from a parodied version of the song, “Could Be” which survives from Programme No. 120 in which Bing and Johnny Mercer refer to his whereabouts and his imminent return.


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical comments: About an hour before air time our control room speaker developed a ringing sound which we could not get rid of. The new studio is very bright and glass, but we will probably have to experiment with set-up a little more although the comments on last night's show were very favorable. We have tried two types of straight so far but have always gone back to the split for greater intimacy. Entertainment: Good. Bing's timing was slightly off at the beginning of the evening spot, but he got it back completely in short order. Commercial: Okay and short! General remarks: The first week in a new studio, and the first week Bing was back proved slightly hectic. However, the show was really excellent."


No.  117  27th October 1938

 

With Ken Carpenter, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Irene Jessner, Ogden Nash, Ralph Bellamy and Henry Fonda.

 

*You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby

  Henry Fonda spot

*Small Fry                                                                    with Henry Fonda (trumpet)

*Don’t Let That Moon Get Away

  Ralph Bellamy spot

*Melody In F (Rubinstein)                                            Henry Fonda (trumpet), Ralph Bellamy & John Scott Trotter (pianos), Bing Crosby (drums), Ken Carpenter (vocal)

*Kentucky Babe                                              (a)         with The Paul Taylor Choristers

*Garden Of The Moon                                    (b)

  Ogden Nash spot

 

Medley:

*You Took The Words Right Out Of My Heart

*This Is My Night To Dream

*Gypsy In My Soul

 

  In Quelle Trine Morbide                                               Irene Jessner

  Vilia                                                                              Irene Jessner

  Dardanella                                                                    John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*When Mother Nature Sings Her Lullaby

 

Notes:

(a)                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”

(b)               Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”      

       Limited Edition Club JGB1003 - “Around The Hall - Volume Two”

       Interfusion CD D26291 “A Bing Crosby Cavalcade Of Song”

 

“Ogden Nash, whose unmetred lines have been a vogue for several years, made one of his rare radio appearances, last Thursday, with Bing Crosby on the Kraft program.  It was a click session, not only for Nash’s ingenious satiric verses and his ingratiating mike personality but also because of exceedingly able scripting and production.  Co-guests on the show, Fonda and Ralph Bellamy together with Crosby and Ken Carpenter, joined in the lyrical fooling.   If consistently presented so engagingly, Nash would be a natural in a regular spot on one of the programs.  After Fonda and Bellamy had each offered his individual bit of clowning, Fonda played the trumpet, Bellamy and John Scott Trotter on pianos, Crosby pounded the drums and Carpenter sang, in a comically, terrible edition of “Melody in F”

(“Variety” 2nd November 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical comments: Gradually getting used to new studio. Entertainment: Very good indeed."

 

No.  118  3rd November 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Dalies Frantz, Herb Polesie, Maureen O’Sullivan, Chester Morris and Claude Rains.

 

*Ya Got Me                                                                 (a)

  Claude Rains spot

*The Lambeth Walk                                                                 with Claude Rains (short excerpt)

*Mexicali Rose

  Maureen O’Sullivan spot

*Red Wing                                                                   (b)

  Herb Polesie spot

  The Dipsy Doodle                                                                   Herb Polesie

*The Dipsy Doodle                                                      (a)         with Herb Polesie

*My Reverie                                                                (a)

  Pastorale                                                                                  Dalies Frantz 

  Mouvements Perpetuels                                                          Dalies Frantz

  Bach Chorale                                                                           Dalies Frantz

  The Girl Friend Of The Whirling Dervish                               John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Summer Souvenirs                                                                   with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Notes:

(a)                 Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”

(b)                CP1 - “Bouncing With Bing”

                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”

 

Bing Crosby will play host to four old friends when Claude Rains, Maureen O’Sullivan, Dalies Frantz and Herb Polesie appear as his guests during the Music Hall broadcast at 9 pm.  All four will chat with their host and Frantz will play a group of piano solos”

(“New Orleans Times-Picayune” 3rd November 1938)


"The strange episode of Pancho Polesie, the famous “opera star” who appeared on Bing Crosby’s program a few weeks ago, has never been satisfactorily explained on the air. It has never been explained on the air at all, as far as that goes. Senor Polesie was given a colossal introduction, in which Bing explained that he was a Crosby discovery, making his debut in this country, and something pretty extra special in the line of opera stars. Senor Polesie then sang “The Dipsy Doodle” in a way it was never sung before, and, if everybody is lucky, will never be sung again. Bing never bothered to explain that Senor Pancho was really Herb Polesie, a Hollywood movie producer, because he supposed listeners would realize it was all a gag. Some people didn’t, though, and are still complaining bitterly that having a famous opera star sing “The Dipsy Doodle” was carrying informality a little too far. Bing pulled the same joke a year or so ago, when he gave Jerry Colonna (now on Bob Hope’s program) a similar buildup. The Colonna hoax was explained on the following week’s broadcast, however."

(Radio Mirror, February 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical comments: Okay. Best piano pick-up I have ever heard. Entertainment: Orchids with special mention of Polesie. General remarks: The stop-watch lost 15 minutes on the hour, so the Kraft (???) time will be slightly off. The time on the last commercial timing was taken from the clock, and is correct."

 

No.  119  10th November 1938

 

With Ken Carpenter, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Mafalda Favero, Gene Krupa, Brian Aherne and Ann Sheridan.

 

*I’ve Got A Pocketful Of Dreams

  Brian Aherne spot

*A Bicycle Built for Two (Daisy Bell) (parody)                         with Brian Aherne

*At Long Last Love                                                   (a)

  Ann Sheridan spot

*Hooray For Spinach                                                                  with Ann Sheridan

*Long, Long Ago                                                       (b)

  Wire Brush Stomp                                                                     Gene Krupa (drums)

*Honeysuckle Rose                                                                     Gene Krupa (drums), Bing Crosby (cymbal), Andy Secrest (trumpet), Perry Botkin (guitar), Jack Mayhew (saxophone), Slim Taft (bass) and John Scott Trotter (piano)

*Garden Of The Moon

  Mi Chiamano Mimi                                                                    Mafalda Favero

  The Last Rose Of Summer                                                        Mafalda Favero with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  The Glow-Worm                                                                       John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Darling Nellie Gray                                                                   with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Notes:

(a)            Spokane 12 - “Bing In The Thirties” 

            BCR-01 (CD) - “Bing Crosby - We’re Just Wild About Harry”

(b)        JSP Records CD JSP6705 - "Here's Bing Crosby!"

 

“Swing fans and opera enthusiasts will both have their innings when Bing Crosby presents Gene Krupa, master of the drums and Malfalda Fevero, brilliant young opera star, in company with Ann Sheridan and Brian Aherne of the movies during his Music Hall broadcast at 9 pm” 

(“New Orleans Times-Picayune” 10th November 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Swell!"

 

No.  120  17th November 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Marie Wilson, Rose Bampton, Roland Young & Johnny Mercer.

 

*The Lady On The Two Cent Stamp                       (a)

  Roland Young spot

*I Dreamt That I Dwelt In Marble Halls                 (b)           with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 *Laugh And Call It Love

  Voi Lo Sapete                                                                       Rose Bampton

*Goin' Home                                                                           with Rose Bampton and The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Marie Wilson spot

 

Medley:

*I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart

*Two Bouquets

*That Old Feeling

  The Parade Of The Wooden Soldiers                                  John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Small Fry                                                                             with Johnny Mercer & Rose Bampton

  Small Fry                                                                             Rose Bampton and John Scott Trotter

*Could Be                                                                              with Johnny Mercer, Marie Wilson & Ken Carpenter

*Swing Low, Sweet Chariot                                                  with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Notes:

(a)            Broadway Intermission BR114 - “Bing Crosby With Glenn Miller” (as “I’m In Love With the Lady In The Stamp Collection”)    

            Music International P6005 (CD) - “Cruisin’ Along” 

            Nostalgia LPF22015 - “Bing Crosby - 20 Golden Greats - Volume 2”        

            (Both above as “Lady In The Stamp Collection”)

(b)           Broadway Intermission BR114 - “Bing Crosby With Glenn Miller” (as “I Dreamed I Dwelt In Marble Hall”)           

            Music International P6005 (CD) - “Cruisin’ Along” 

            Double Play GRF016 (CD) - “Everything I Have Is Yours”

            Nostalgia LPF22015 - “Bing Crosby - 20 Golden Greats - Volume 2”        

            (Above three, as “I Dreamt I Dwelt In Marble Hall”

 

“Bing Crosby has assembled a galaxy of stars, including Roland Young, English actor; Rose Bampton, Metropolitan Opera singer; Johnny Mercer, songwriter and Marie Wilson, film actress for his Music Hall program at 9 pm over NBC-WSNB.  John Scott Trotter’s Orchestra and the Paul Taylor Chorus complete the cast”

(“New Orleans Times-Picayune” 17th November 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical: We had trouble with our cut-in announcements tonight on KFI, so everyone told us about it. I wonder how many times they are linked up by out of town stations and we are not told. Entertainment: Okay. General remarks: Good show."

 

No.  121  24th November 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, The Gonzaga University Quartet, Toscha Seidel, Andrea Leeds and Chester Morris.

 

*You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby

  Chester Morris spot

*At Long Last Love

  Bob Burns spot

*My Sweetheart’s The Man In The Moon

*My Reverie

  Andrea Leeds spot

*Mi Rancho Bonito                                                                   sung in Spanish with Andrea Leeds

  Minuet In G (Beethoven)                                                        Toscha Seidel (violin) 
  One Day When We Were Young (Strauss)                            
Toscha Seidel (violin)


  Fight On, Loyola                                                                     The Gonzaga University Quartet

  The Idaho Alma Mater                                                            The Gonzaga University Quartet

  Washington State Fight Song                                                   The Gonzaga University Quartet

*Bulldogs Of Gonzaga                                                               with The Gonzaga University Quartet

  Hail KMH                                                                                The Gonzaga University Quartet                                                                             

*Mexicali Rose                                                                          with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

“When Bing Crosby opens his Music Hall for a broadcast at 9 pm, he’ll find two faces new to the group for the past few weeks. One will be Chester Morris and the other will be Bob Burns, both of the silver screen” 

(“New Orleans Times-Picayune” 24th November 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Okay.  Commercial: Cut-in trouble. General remarks: Burns timing all shot. He just arrived back from vacation."

 

No.  122  1st December 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Joe Sullivan, David Niven and Edward Arnold.

 

*Ya Got Me

 Ya Got Me (parody)                                                                             with Bob Burns

  Edward Arnold spot

  Down Went McGinty To the Bottom Of The Sea                                Edward Arnold and Bob Burns (bazooka)

*Summer Souvenirs                                                                                with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Bob Burns spot

*(Back Home Again In) Indiana

*Who Blew Out The Flame                                       (a)

  David Niven spot

 

Medley:

*Don’t Be That Way                                                  (a)

*Once In A While                                                       (a)

*In The Shade Of The New Apple Tree                     (a)


  Just Strollin'                                                                                       Joe Sullivan (piano)

  Little Rock Getaway                                                                          Joe Sullivan (piano)

*Old Folks                                                                                           with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”


A character actor who can cook, a romantic lead and one of Hollywood’s hottest pianists are the guest artists in the Music Hall program tonight, when Bing Crosby and Bob Burns will present another of their informal receptions for cinema celebrities. These guests are, in order, Edward Arnold and David Niven of the screen and Joe Sullivan of the swing piano department. The program will also include music by John Scott Trotter’s orchestra, the Paul Taylor Chorus and of course the inimitable songs of Bing and the expert patter and bazooking by Bob.

(Democrat and Chronicle, (Rochester, NY), December 1, 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Okay. General remarks: Niven swell. Arnold best."


No.  123  8th December 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Charles Farrell, Florence George and Priscilla Lane.

 

*Lullaby In Rhythm                                                   (a)        with The Paul Taylor Choristers

*Lullaby In Rhythm (parody)                                                 with Bob Burns (bazooka

  Priscilla Lane spot

*Ride, Tenderfoot, Ride                                                         with Priscilla Lane & Bob Burns (Perry Botkin - guitar)

*My Reverie

  Bob Burns spot

*When You’re A Long, Long Way From Home       (a)         with The Paul Taylor Choristers

*Hurry Home                                                             (a)

  Charles Farrell spot
  My Honey's Lovin' Arms                                                     Charles Farrell (trumpet)

  One Fine Day                                                                       Florence George

  Carry Me Back To Old Virginny                                          Florence George with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Where Or When                                                                   John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Mexicali Rose                                                                      with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”


Other radio guests today include Priscilla Lane of the Lane sisters, Charles Farrell, once a movie idol and now playing in a new Shirley Temple picture, and Florence George, singer, all visiting Bing Crosby and Bob Burns on the Music Hall.

(The Miami Herald, December 8, 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: O.K. General remarks: John thinks our last commercial too late."

 

No.  124  15th December 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Jan Smeterlin, Jane Bryan and Leslie Howard.

 

*The Funny Old Hills                                                           (a)

 Leslie Howard spot

*Without You

  Without You                                                                                        Leslie Howard

*Who Blew Out The Flame?

  Bob Burns spot

  Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town                                                           Bob Burns (bazooka)

*I Cried For You                                                                   (a)

*I Have Eyes                                                                         (a)

  Jane Bryan spot

*The Sidewalks Of New York (parody)                                                 with Jane Bryan and Leslie Howard

  Nocturne in E-flat Major                                                                      Jan Smeterlin (piano)

  Grand Valse Brilliante in E-flat major                                                  Jan Smeterlin (piano)

*Old Folks                                                                              (a)            with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”

           

“Leslie Howard, who directed and starred in the screen adaptation of ‘Pygmalion’, in England, Jan Smeterlin, Polish concert pianist and Jane Bryan of the screen will be on the air with Bing Crosby at 7 pm over KFI. ‘Without You’- words and music by Leslie Howard will be introduced by Crosby, along with several songs from his new picture, ‘Paris Honeymoon’.  They are, ‘The Funny Old Hills’, ‘Joobalai’, ‘I Have Eyes’ and ‘You’re A Sweet Little Headache’”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 15th December 1938)


Leslie Howard had not worn make-up for many years, either on stage or in films, and this was just one more black mark in his mind against appearing in “Gone with the Wind”. Fortunately, he worked steadily on radio programs and was enchanted when he appeared on Bing Crosby’s show and Crosby sang a Howard composition called ‘Without You’, the music by Leslie and the words by Leslie and Doodie (his daughter). They were delighted with the song, and, must I say, so was I. It sounded marvellous, played by the orchestra and sung by Crosby. Crosby said, “Tell me, Leslie, how do Howard the actor and Howard the director get along with Howard the songwriter?”

(From A Quite Remarkable Father by Leslie Ruth Howard)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Credits.  Comments on Commercial: OK, but some complaints from Canada on changed name."


No.  125  22nd December 1938

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, The Kraft Choral Society, Benita Hume and Basil Rathbone.

 

*Adeste Fideles

  Basil Rathbone spot

  If This Were Fate                                                                               Basil Rathbone (poetry reading)

*Lullaby In Rhythm

  Bob Burns spot

*The Lonesome Road                                                 (a)

*You’re A Sweet Little Headache

  Benita Hume spot

  The Bowery (parody)                                                                         Benita Hume

  Gesu Bambino                                                                                    The Kraft Choral Society

  The Lord’s Prayer (Malotte)                                                               The Kraft Choral Society

  By Heck                                                                                              John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Hurry Home

  The Unforgotten                                                                                  Basil Rathbone (poetry reading)

*Silent Night

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 27 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 6”


The Kraft Choral Society makes one of its semi-annual appearances on the Bing Crosby – Bob Burns program at 10 o’clock tonight via NBC and WMBG, and Basil Rathbone and Benita Hume of the films will fill the guest spot. This is the Christmas program when Bing sings “Adeste Fidelis” and “Silent Night.” It will be the third successive year that he has sung these traditional melodies. Reservations for these numbers are placed with the network music department a year ahead to insure that they will be on the program. We might add that Crosby’s treatment of the carols is the best on the air – by vote by listeners and radio editors from coast to coast. The Choral Society, heard on this program each Easter and Christmas, is a mixed chorus of 80 employees of the sponsor.

(The Times Dispatch, (Richmond, Virginia), December 22, 1938)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical comments: O.K. Switches pretty good. Entertainment: O.K. Shouldn't have put "By Heck" in at all. General remarks: Choir spread 1:00 and wrapped the closing slightly."


 

No.  126  29th December 1938 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Marie Wilson, Preston Foster, Louis Prima and Jack Carson.

 

*The Funny Old Hills

*The Funny Old Hills (parody)                                                with Bob Burns

  Marie Wilson spot

*Jeepers Creepers                                                                     with Bob Burns & Marie Wilson

  Bob Burns spot

*My Melancholy Baby

*Between A Kiss And A Sigh                                   (a)

  Jack Carson spot

 

Medley:                                                                                    with Bob Burns, Jack Carson & Ken Carpenter

*Down By The Old Mill Stream (parody)

*Dear Old Girl (parody)                                                                     

*Sweet Adeline (parody)

*Let Me Call You Sweetheart (parody)

                                                                                                           

  Louis Prima spot

  Sing Sing Sing                                                                         Louis Prima (trumpet)

  Tiger Rag                                                                                Louis Prima (trumpet)

  The Doll Dance                                                                      John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*It’s A Lonely Trail                                                                  with The Paul Taylor Choristers,

*Auld Lang Syne                                                                      with cast

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


Melvyn Douglas, one of Hollywood’s most popular actors, and Marie Wilson, the screen’s newest “dumb” blond, will be included in Bing Crosby’s guest list at 9 p.m…

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram, December 29, 1938) (NOTE: It would appear that Mr. Douglas did not show up)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: A perfect ending, and a good one. Generally a swell show."

 

No.  127  5th January 1939

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Alice Ehlers, Preston Foster and Roland Young.

 

*You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby

*You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby (parody)                           with Bob Burns (bazooka)

  Roland Young spot

*I Have Eyes

  Bob Burns spot

*I’m Just Wild About Harry                                   (a)

*Have You Forgotten So Soon?                             (b)

  Preston Foster spot

*Put On Your Old Grey Bonnet (parody)                                        with Preston Foster and Bob Burns

  Marche A La Tourna                                                                      Alice Ehlers (harpsichord)

  The Cuckoo                                                                                    Alice Ehlers (harpsichord)

  Tambourine                                                                                     Alice Ehlers (harpsichord)

  Cotton Picker's Congregation                                                         John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Old Folks                                                                                        with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Notes:

(a)                Spokane 12 - “Bing In The Thirties” 

               BCR-01 (CD) - “Bing Crosby - We’re Just Wild About Harry”

(b)               Spokane 12 - “Bing In The Thirties” (as “Have You Forgotten”)


Roland Young, one of the Music Hall’s favorite alumni, drops around to the campus to visit Bing Crosby and Bob Burns, along with Preston Foster, of the sound stages, Alice Ehlers, one of the country’s best known virtuosos on one of its least known musical instruments – the harpsichord, during the “Music Hall” broadcast to be heard over WSB at 9 o’clock tonight.

(The Atlanta Constitution, January 5, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: Ehlers and harpsichord good. Young up to par. Foster fair. Station break good but should have been rehearsed."


 

No.  128  12th January 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Grete Stueckgold, Spring Byington and Wayne Morris.

 

*I Must See Annie Tonight

*I Must See Annie Tonight (parody)                                                  with Bob Burns

  Wayne Morris spot

*Goodbye, Girls, I’m Through                                                           with Bob Burns & Wayne Morris

*The Funny Old Hills (parody)                                                          with Bob Burns (bazooka) & Wayne Morris (saxophone)

*Just A Kid Named Joe

  Bob Burns spot

*The Pal That I Loved (Stole The Girl That I Loved)                        with The Paul Taylor Choristers

*Between A Kiss And A Sigh

  Zueignung                                                                                         Grete Stueckgold

  Humoresque                                                                                     Grete Stueckgold (comb)

  My Rosary                                                                                        Grete Stueckgold with The Paul Taylor Choristers                       

  Spring Byington spot

*Sweet Sue                                                                                         with Spring Byington & Wayne Morris (saxophone)

  Canadian Capers                                                                              John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*It’s A Lonely Trail                                                                            with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

“Grete Stueckgold, noted singer, Spring Byington, character actress and Wayne Morris, recent bridegroom, will be on the air with Bing Crosby and Bob Burns at 7 over KFI.  Miss Byington is the mother in ‘The Jones Family’ series”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 12th January 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Swell."


No.  129  19th January 1939           

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Emanuel Feuermann, Colonel Stoopnagle (F. Chase Taylor) and Anita Louise.

 

*Jeepers Creepers

  Colonel Stoopnagle spot

  Java Jive (I Love Coffee, I Love Tea)                                             F. Chase Taylor (organ)

*I Have Eyes

  Bob Burns spot

*I Used To Love You (But It’s All Over Now)        

*They Say

*Believe Me, If All Those Endearing Young Charms                         with Anita Louise (harp) & The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Apres Un Reve                                                                                  Emanuel Feuermann (cello)

  Zapateado                                                                                          Emanuel Feuermann (cello)
  Begin The Beguine                                                                            John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*When You’re A Long, Long Way From Home                                 with The Paul Taylor Choristers



Bing Crosby and Bob Burns will team up to confuse Colonel Lemuel Q. Stoopnagle when that old hand at confusing turns up as a guest of the “Music Hall” program to be heard over WSB at 9 o’clock tonight. Other guests to be heard on the full hour show include Anita Louise, motion picture leading lady, and Emanuel Feuermann, distinguished cellist.

(The Atlanta Constitution, January 19, 1939)

 

No.  130  26th January 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Cote Vandermark, Frances Mercer, Mayo Methot and Humphrey Bogart.

 

*This Can’t Be Love

*This Can’t Be Love (parody)                                                             with Bob Burns (vocal}

  Humphrey Bogart spot

  The Bold Fisherman                                                                           Humphrey Bogart

  More Than You Know                                                                        Mayo Methot

*I Up’s To Her And She Up’s To Me                                                   with Humphrey Bogart & Maya Methot (only a few words from Crosby & Methot)

*The Umbrella Man

 *The Umbrella Man (parody)

  Bob Burns spot

  Heaven On Earth                                                                                Bob Burns (guitar & vocal)

*Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me                (a)

*Hurry Home

  Frances Mercer spot

  They Say                                                                                              Frances Mercer

*I Must See Annie Tonight (parody)

*Have You Forgotten So Soon?(parody)                                               with Frances Mercer

  Non La Sospiri La Nostra Casetta                                                        Cote Vandermark

  Liebesbotschaft                                                                                                      Cote Vandermark

  Dardanella                                                                                            John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Old Folks                                                                                               with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 14 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume Two”“

 

Cole (sic) Vandermark, Netherlands concert and opera singer, will visit the Music Hall, KFI at 7 pm, to sing a group of arias and Dutch lieder.  Other guests will be Frances Mercer, young RKO actress, who will offer, ‘Have You Forgotten’ and Humphrey Bogart, motion picture badman.  Bob Burns is down on the program for a guitar solo (with words and music by Robin Burns) and the songs, ‘This Can’t Be Love’ and ‘The Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gave (sic) To Me’ will be among Bing Crosby’s vocals”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 26th January 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Technical comments: O.K. We gave NBC the network at 7:59:40 but the chimes didn't work, which is no fault of ours."

 

No.  131  2nd February 1939

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Miriam Hopkins, Harry Carey and "Master Stan" (Stanley Schilling, 6-year old sousaphone player). 

 

*Jeepers Creepers

  Miriam Hopkins spot

*Thanks For Ev’rything                                                          (a)

  Bob Burns spot

*When It’s Apple Blossom Time In Normandy

  Doin' The KMH Blues                                                                             Ken Carpenter

*Deep In A Dream                                                                  (a)

  Harry Carey spot

  Stanley Schilling spot

  Dewdrops                                                                                                 Stanley Schilling (sousaphone)

  Alexander's Ragtime Band                                                                       Stanley Schilling (sousaphone) & Bob Burns (bazooka)

  Hot Lips                                                                                                    Stanley Schilling (sousaphone)

  The Parade Of The Wooden Soldiers                                                       John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*It’s A Lonely Trail                                                                                    with The Paul Taylor Choristers

 

Note:

(a)               Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


Miriam Hopkins, the dramatic actress with a gift for comedy, and Harry Carey, an old time star of Western pictures who progressed to character parts, will be guest stars with Bing Crosby on tonight’s “Music Hall” program…John Scott Trotter will do an Hawaiian medley as his feature of the evening.

(Democrat and Chronicle, (Rochester, New York), February 2, 1939)


No.  132  9th February 1939  

 

With Bob Burns, The Paul Taylor Choristers, Kathryn Meisle, Elizabeth Patterson and Jeffrey Lynn.

 

*This Can’t Be Love

*This Can’t Be Love (parody)                                                with Bob Burns

  Jeffrey Lynn spot

*When My Baby Smiles At Me                                              with Bob Burns (bazooka) & Jeffrey Lynn (violin)

*You’re A Sweet Little Headache

  Bob Burns spot

*Together                                                        (a)                    with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  There's A Brief Pause                                                            Ken Carpenter

*Just A Kid Named Joe

  Elizabeth Patterson spot

  Oh! Love Thy Help                                                                Kathryn Meisle

  Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair                                        Kathryn Meisle with The Paul Taylor Choristers

  Caravan                                                                                  John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*The Umbrella Man

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


Elizabeth Patterson, character actress, Jeffrey Lynn, motion picture star, and Katherine Meisle, Metropolitan Opera star, will be subjected to one of Bing Crosby’s quizzes during the “Music Hall” program over WHAM at 10 o’clock tonight. The current musical favorite – “Umbrella Man” – will be featured by Bing as one of his song selections.

(Democrat and Chronicle, (Rochester, New York), February 9, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: "Good. Patterson is the sort of spot we need more of. Comments on Commercial: O.K but a couple of strange words in the middle one."

 

No.  133  16th February 1939

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, Gregor Piatigorsky, Florence Rice and Nigel Bruce.

 

*The Funny Old Hills

*The Funny Old Hills (parody)                                                          with Bob Burns

  Nigel Bruce spot

*Deep In A Dream

  Bob Burns spot

*Missouri Waltz                                                (a)

*I Cried For You

  Florence Rice spot

  Minuet By Valencians                                                                     Gregor Piatigorsky (cello)

  Romance (Debussy)                                                                        Gregor Piatigorsky (cello)

  Hora Staccato                                                                                  Gregor Piatigorsky (cello)

  Night And Day                                                                                John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*It’s A Lonely Trail

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


Florence Rice, film star daughter of the famous sports writer, Grantland Rice, will join Gregor Piatigorsky, noted concert ‘cellist, and Nigel Bruce, American-born English actor, as guests of Bing Crosby during the “Music Hall” broadcast over WHAM tonight at ten o’clock.

(Democrat and Chronicle, (Rochester, New York), February 16, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: Didn't seem to miss the choir."

 

No.  134  23rd February 1939  

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Ellen Drew and Henry Fonda.

 

*Could Be                                               (a)

*Could Be (parody)                                                                           with Bob Burns

  Henry Fonda spot

*Pennies From Heaven                                                                      Bing Crosby (cymbal), Henry Fonda (trumpet), Bob Burns (bazooka) & John Scott Trotter (piano)

*I Have Eyes

  Bob Burns spot

*If I Had My Way                                                                             with The Music Maids

*Hurry Home

  Ellen Drew spot

*Please

  Hawaiian War Chant (Ta-Hu-Wa-Hu-Wai)                                     The Music Maids

*Let That Be A Lesson To You          (b)                                           with The Music Maids

  Carioca                                                                                              John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*The Umbrella Man                            (c)                                           with The Music Maids


Notes:

(a)              Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”

(b)             CP1 - “Bouncing With Bing”

             Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”

            (Shewn on both of the above issues as, “Teacher, Teacher”)

(c)             Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”      

            Limited Edition Club JGB1003 - “Around The Hall - Volume Two”

            Sepia CD 1224 "Bing Crosby in the Hall"

 

“Bing Crosby and his cohorts were in fine fettle (Thursday 23rd), on Kraft’s WEAF Music Hall.  The hour turned up Henry Fonda who first found himself between Bob Burns and Crosby and a comical sequence based on Fonda’s, Missouri experiences while making the film, ‘Jesse James’.  The segment, of course, dragged in Burns’ Arkansas locale.  Second place involved Ellen Drew, featured in a recent Crosby film and pictured Fonda as a bashful hill-billy lover (accent and all), seeking advice from Cupid, assisting Miss Drew.  Fonda also toted in his trumpet for a dual session with Burns’ bazooka.  It sounded like Tin Pan Alley in a full off-key blast and was good for more laughs.”

(“Variety” 1st March 1939)

 

“There are more laughs and less tension and routine at a Music Hall rehearsal than any I walk in upon.  Everyone had an especially good time on Thursday when Henry ‘Hank’ Fonda with a trumpet, Bob Burns with his bazooka, Bing Crosby with a cymbal and drum stick and John Scott Trotter at an old upright piano were rehearsing ‘Pennies From Heaven’.  ‘Hank’, (pardon the familiarity) wanted to know if he was getting too good and Bob asked if the instruments were balanced.  To that query, Bing replied, ‘There’s a better chance of balancing the National Budget than balancing this’.  Hank then wanted to know if they would get any pennies.  ‘If you get any for this they’ll have to come from Heaven’, was Bob’s answer.  When Bob was playing his bazooka solo, Jim Bealle of the agency responsible for the show remarked, ‘He has his soul in his eyes when he blows that instrument’.  He certainly was looking off into space.  Once, in a number with others, Robert Brewster, the producer, said, ‘That was not enough bazooka’.  The Arkansas spinner of tales looked surprised and declared, ‘Well, that’s the first time I ever heard that’.  Bob was very proud of some of the pictures taken at the NBC studios, last week, of himself and his daughter, Barbara Ann and some with Bing.  Gentleman Ken Carpenter and others had the highest praise for the little miss who, though only 10 months old, talks and takes a great interest in every-thing.  Bing looked down at Frances Scully of the NBC publicity department who was sitting with me in the front row and said, ‘New dress?’  She, ‘Yes, it’s Spring’.  He, ‘It’s February!’.  She, ‘It’s Spring, just the same’.

What were certain well-known men wearing?  The best groomed were Bob Burns and Ken Carpenter who wore business suits.  Henry Fonda looked as though he had just come in from the tennis court.  He wore a soft open-necked shirt, a somewhat worn sports jacket, cream coloured trousers and tennis shoes.  His hair was rather long in the back.  He was a little stoop-shouldered and had the forlorn expression of a cocker spaniel.  Whether he was tired or if it was just a pose for the occasion, I don’t know but it wasn’t from lack of sense of humour.  Bing Crosby, as usual, wore his shirt outside his trousers.  This one was ‘tame’.   None of those Hawaiian or Bermudan purchases.  It was plain, dark blue and the pocket was stuffed with pencils and paper.  His trousers were dark blue, his shoes brown.  Bing’s gray felt hat was old.  Frances said that when the cast made fun of it, he added a pheasant feather.  Genial, big-around (he has a Southern cook) John Scott Trotter, worked with his coat off so, his shirt was quite wrinkled from the exercise he had rehearsing the orchestra.  His gray trousers were held up by a brown belt.”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 27th February 1939)

 

(Needless to say, that the above was written by a lady and it does paint a vivid picture for us of a KMH rehearsal – Compiler)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General Remarks: Music Maids O.K."

 

No.  135  2nd March 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Rose Bampton, Joseph Calleia and Joan Bennett.

 

*Penny Serenade                                                        (a)         with The Music Maids

*Penny Serenade (parody)                                                       with Bob Burns

  Joan Bennett spot

*Would You Like To Take A Walk? (parody)                        with Joan Bennett

*You’re A Sweet Little Headache

  Bob Burns spot

*Yaaka Hula Hickey Dula                                           (a)        with The Music Maids

  Underneath The Moon Of KMH                                            Ken Carpenter

*I Get Along Without You Very Well                         (a)

  Joseph Calleia spot

  Adelai (Calleia/Abbott)                                                           Joseph Calleia

  Connais Tu Le Pays                                                                 Rose Bampton

*Wildflower (parody)                                                                with Rose Bampton & Bob Burns (bazooka)

  In The Silence Of The Night                                                    Rose Bampton

*Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair                             (a)         with The Music Maids

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”

            Sepia CD 1224 "Bing Crosby in the Hall"

 

“Joan Bennett, Joseph Calleia and the Music Maids will be on the air with Bing Crosby and Bob Burns at 7 pm over KFI.  Calleia, who was a singer before he became a screen character actor will sing, ‘Adelai’ which he wrote in collaboration with George Abbott in 1920”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 2nd March 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Bampton green, otherwise a very good show."

 

No.  136  9th March 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Lloyd Nolan, Frances Langford and William Frawley.

 

*Could Be

*Could Be (parody)                                                               with Bob Burns

  Lloyd Nolan spot

*Little Sir Echo                                                          (a)        with The Music Maids

  Bob Burns spot

*I Cried For You

*S’Posin                                                                    (a)        with The Music Maids

  Our Love                                                                              Frances Langford

*Gypsy Love Song                                                                 with Frances Langford

  William Frawley spot

*Don't Forget                                                                          with Frances Langford & William Frawley

*Deep In A Dream

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


Bing Crosby still mcing radio’s most informally entertaining variety hour, is host to William Frawley and Frances Langford.  

(The Vancouver Sun, March 9, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: Langford swell."

 

No.  137  16th March 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, The Matty Malneck Orchestra, Robert Coote and Pat O’Brien.

 

*Sing A Song Of Sunbeams                                       (a)

*Sing A Song Of Sunbeams (parody)           

  Pat O’Brien spot

*Dear Old Donegal                                                                   with Pat O'Brien

*East Side Of Heaven                                                (a)

  Bob Burns spot

*Believe Me If All Those Endearing Young Charms                with The Music Maids

*Penny Serenade                                                                       with The Music Maids

  Robert Coote spot

  Liebestraum                                                                            The Matty Malneck Orchestra

  Humoresques                                                                          The Matty Malneck Orchestra

*Hang Your Heart On A Hickory Limb                                    with The Matty Malneck Orchestra & The Music Maids

  Begin The Beguine                                                                  John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*You’re The Only Star In My Blue Heaven                              with The Music Maids

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”


In honor of that old Irish custom, St. Patrick’s Day, Bing Crosby has lined up Pat O’Brien as his special guest on the Music Hall tonight at 9 o’clock over KTBS. Another feature of the broadcast will be the appearance of Mattie Malneck and his orchestra in addition to the regulars – Bob Burns, the Music Maids, and John Scott Trotter and his band.

(The Times, (Shreveport, Louisiana), March 16, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: Malneck has a very good outfit. O'Brien did the usual good job. We must use Coote again. He is good."

 

No.  138  23rd March 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Jed Prouty, Florence George and Ralph Bellamy.

 

*Honolulu                                                                   (a)

*Honolulu (parody)                                                                with Bob Burns (vocal)         

  Ralph Bellamy spot

*Little Sir Echo                                                                      with The Music Maids

  Bob Burns spot

*Sweet Genevieve                                                      (c)        with The Music Maids

*I Get Along Without You Very Well                       (b)

  Jed Prouty spot

  Sweet Adeline                                                                       Jed Prouty

*Sweet Adeline                                                                       with Jed Prouty & Bob Burns  
  Les Filles De Cadix                                                               Florence George

*Lover, Come Back To Me                                                     with Florence George

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane)                with The Music Maids

 

Notes:

(a)            Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7” (Date for “Sweet Genevieve” shewn as 30.3.39)

            Sepia CD 1224 "Bing Crosby in the Hall"

(b)        Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”

             Sepia CD 1224 "Bing Crosby in the Hall"

(c)        Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7” (Date shewn as 30.3.39)


A more than casual chat with Bing Crosby and Bob Burns is in store for Ralph Bellamy, of the movies, and Florence George, soprano, when they appear on the Music Hall tonight. In addition to Bing and Bob, the regular company of K. M. H. includes the Music Maids and John Scott Trotter’s orchestra.

Having shown up several times on the hour that's heard over WMAQ at 9 o'clock, Ralph Bellamy now may be called an alumnus of the Hall. Bellamy's latest motion picture is “Trade Winds” in which he plays a conscientious but none-too-bright detective. He first discovered his flair for comedy roles in a visit with Bing some time back.

Florence George is not only good-looking but also possesses a soprano voice of operatic quality. In addition to her singing she will submit to what Bing likes to call a “pear-shaped” (i.e. streamlined) interview with Bob Burns stepping “mikeward” from time to time to add a little heckling.

Bing Crosby will sing “Sly Old Gentleman" from his new picture, “East Side of Heaven,” for the first time over the air. His other numbers include, “Honolulu,” “"Genevieve, Sweet Genevieve,” and “Little Sir Echo.” The Music Maids, a choral group, will harmonize with Bing in two of his musical numbers.

(Belvedere Daily Republican, March 23, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "A slow audience but it probably sounded O.K. in the homes."


No.  139  30th March 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Alice Marble, Rudolph Ganz and Chester Morris.

 

*Hang Your Heart On A Hickory Limb                     (a)        with The Music Maids

  Chester Morris spot

*I Cried For You

  Bob Burns spot

*I Want A Girl, Just Like The Girl

                        (That Married Dear Old Dad)            (a)        with The Music Maids

*I Have Eyes

  I See Your Face Before Me                                                 Alice Marble

  Nocturne in F-sharp Major                                                  Rudolph Ganz (piano)

  St. Louis Blues                                                                    Rudolph Ganz (piano)

  Little Sphinx                                                                        Rudolph Ganz (piano)

  Waltz In A-flat                                                                     Rudolph Ganz (piano)

  Limehouse Blues                                                                  John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*You’re The Only Star In My Blue Heaven               (b)       with The Music Maids

 

Note:

(a)             Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”

             Sepia CD 1373 "Bing Crosby - Kraft Music Hall Time"

(b)            Chord 7” LP (Untitled and unnumbered)     

            Lamton 250 - “Sweethearts Of Song - Live 1940’s”

            Spokane 28 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 7”

            Sepia CD 1224 "Bing Crosby in the Hall"

 
“Visitors to the Music Hall, KFI at 7, will be Alice Marble, tennis champion and singer, Rudolf Ganz, noted pianist and Chester Morris, actor” 

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 30th March 1938)

 

No.  140  6th April 1939

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, The Kraft Choral Society, Alan Mowbray and Rosemary Lane.

 

*Sing A Song Of Sunbeams

*Sing A Song Of Sunbeams (parody)                                              with Bob Burns (bazooka)

  Rosemary Lane spot

*Easter Parade                                                                                 with Rosemary Lane

*We’ve Come A Long Way Together

  Bob Burns spot

  Put On Your Old Gray Bonnet                                                        Bob Burns (bazooka)

*What Can I Say Dear, After I Say I’m Sorry?          (b)                  with The Music Maids

*I Surrender Dear

  Alan Mowbray spot

*'Neath The Spreading Chestnut Tree                                              with Alan Mowbray, Bob Burns & Rosemary Lane

  The Easter Dawn                                                                            The Kraft Choral Society

  Allelujah                                                                                         The Kraft Choral Society

  Carioca                                                                                            John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Little Sir Echo                                                         (a)                   with The Music Maids

 

Notes:

(a)             Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”

(b)        JSP Records CD JSP6705 - "Here's Bing Crosby!"


Easter music will highlight Bing Crosby’s “Music Hall” at ten. The Music Hall Choral Society, eighty mixed voices, will feature hymns and other music associated with the Easter season. Guests of the evening will be Rosemary Lane and Alan Mowbray of the movie lots.

(Democrat and Chronicle, April 6, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "This show received an orchid."


No.  141  13th April 1939   

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Vitya Vronsky & Victor Babin, Leo McCarey and John Wayne.

 

*Hang Your Heart On A Hickory Limb                                         with The Music Maids

  Leo McCarey spot

  Lankershim                                                                                   Leo McCarey

*Wishing (Will Make It So)                                                            with The Music Maids (Leo McCarey on piano)

*I’m Building A Sailboat Of Dreams                         (a)       

  Bob Burns spot

*It Must Be True                                                       (b)                 with The Music Maids

*I Get Along Without You Very Well

  John Wayne spot

  The Dance Of The Buffoons                                                          Vitya Vronsky & Victor Babin (pianos)

  Por Remercier La Pluie Au Matin                                                  Vitya Vronsky & Victor Babin (pianos)

  Brazilierre                                                                                       Vitya Vronsky & Victor Babin (pianos)

  By Heck                                                                                          John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane)   (c)                  with The Music Maids

 

Notes:

(a)               Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”      

               Spokane 12 - “Bing In The Thirties” 

               BCR-01 (CD) - “Bing Crosby - We’re Just Wild About Harry”

(b)               Spokane 14 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume Two”

(c)                Spokane 12 - “Bing In The Thirties”


John Wayne, motion picture star, Leo McCarey, director, and the piano duo of Vronsky and Babbin will join Bing Crosby during the broadcast of the NBC-WBMG Music Hall at 10 o’clock tonight. With interruptions by Bob Burns, Bing will talk over movie topics with Wayne, star of many Western films and McCarey, Academy Award winner. Vronsky and Babbin will be heard in a group of piano duets.

(Richmond Times Dispatch, April 13, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "General remarks: Mr. McCarey started off very nervous but pulled himself together. Wayne pretty good."


 

No.  142  20th April 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Irene Hervey and Jackie Cooper.

 

*Honolulu                                                                  (a)         with The Music Maids

*Honolulu (parody)                                                                 with Bob Burns

  Jackie Cooper spot

*Down By The Old Millstream                                                with Jackie Cooper

  China Boy                                                                              Jackie Cooper (drums)

*East Side Of Heaven

  Bob Burns spot

*(In A Bungalow) Where The Red, Red Roses Grow (b)         with The Music Maids

*And The Angels Sing

  Irene Hervey spot

  Red Wing                                                                                 The Music Maids

*(Gotta Get Some) Shuteye (parody)                          (c)          with The Music Maids

  Dancing Tambourine                                                               John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*You’re The Only Star In My Blue Heaven                (a)         with The Music Maids


Notes:

(a)              Spokane 21 - “Bing And The Music Maids”

(b)              Spokane 21 - “Bing And The Music Maids” 

             Broadway Intermission BR114 - “Bing Crosby With Glenn Miller”

             Nostalgia LPF22015 - “Bing Crosby - 20 Golden Greats - Volume 2”

(c)        Spokane 21 - “Bing And The Music Maids” (as “I’ve Got A Lot Of Dreaming To Do”)


The man that said music hath charm must have heard the “Bing Crosby Music Hall” program. John Scott Trotter leads the orchestra and does a masterful job. He has something on the ball and the country really likes it. Highspots of tonight’s program will be the appearance of Hollywood juveniles. Irene Hervey and Jackie Cooper will face the “mike” along with Bing Crosby, Bob Burns and the Music Maids. If you don’t believe music hath charm, listen to WHAM tonight at ten o’clock.

(Democrat and Chronicle, April 20, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Credits, especially Cooper."

 

No.  143  27th April 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Kathryn Meisle, J. Carrol Naish and Roland Young.

 

*Class Will Tell                                                            (a)        with The Music Maids

*Class Will Tell (parody)                                             (a)         with Bob Burns

  Roland Young spot

*We’ve Come A Long Way Together                         (a)         with The Music Maids

  Bob Burns spot

*Mickey                                                                       (a)         with The Music Maids

*Our Love                                                                    (a)         with The Music Maids

  J. Carrol Naish spot

  Little Town In The Ould County Down                                  J. Carrol Naish

  None But The Lonely Heart                                                    Kathryn Meisle

  Do Do Dodo                                                                            Kathryn Meisle                                                                   

  Minuet In Jazz                                                                         John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane)                  with The Music Maids

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”

             Sepia CD 1373 "Bing Crosby - Kraft Music Hall Time"


Who is the masked marvel? That is the question that bothers everyone on the “Music Hall” program these days. To end the marvel’s era of mysterious workings, Bing Crosby will tonight escort the aforementioned unknown quantity to the edge of the Music Hall stage and do a de-masking act that will make swell listening. Other guests will be Roland Young and Kathryn Meisle. Roland is of course from the movie lots and Miss Meisle is from the Metropolitan Opera Company. (NOTE:  The Masked Marvel was a well-known wrestler.)

(Democrat and Chronicle, April 27, 1939)


ON THE AIR TONIGHT: The Kraft Music Hall, on NBC's Red network from 10:00 to 11:00 o'clock, Eastern Daylight Time — the most informal and easy-going show on the air.

Bing Crosby, star of the Kraft Music Hall, is Hollywood's most casual celebrity, and takes radio very much in his stride. Wearing slacks, a short-sleeved sport shirt (lately it's been of the Hawaiian variety), an old hat with a pheasant band, and comfortable zipper boots, and puffing his pipe, Bing shows up at the studio around noon on broadcast days. He usually has a racing form under his arm. After some kidding with John Scott Trotter, his heavyweight bandleader, and the orchestra boys, he plants himself on a high stool at the mike and rehearses — still puffing the pipe. He always has time to talk to the song-pluggers he allows into the rehearsal, which is another of the many reasons he's such a popular guy with everybody.

Bob Burns arrives about 2:45 and there's more visiting and kidding. Bob may talk like a hillbilly, but he doesn't look like one. He's better dressed than Bing — his clothes, though conservative, are very smartly tailored, and his ties, shirts and accessories all harmonize in color. He's also one of the few radio stars whose scripts are never checked before broadcasting by the network — Amos & Andy and Lum and Abner are the only others.

Harry Lillis Crosby, Sr., Bing's dad, and his two brothers, Everett and Larry, who manage his business affairs, are also always on hand at rehearsal and broadcast.

Everybody takes the rehearsal casually except the producers, Ted Hediger of NBC and Bob Brewster of the J. Walter Thompson advertising agency. It's due to their expert direction that the completed product runs off so smoothly. The Bing has his own favorite NBC engineer, Murdo Mackenzie, who knows the crooner's tone qualities to a T. Carroll Carroll is the young writer responsible for the snappy dialogue — he also thought up Ken Carpenter's weekly bell-ringing routine.

People who take their opera stars seriously sometimes object to Bing's off-hand way of talking to them when they guest-star on his show — but the opera stars themselves usually love it; it makes them feel at home and breaks down the nervous tension they work under.

Bing's program comes from the same Studio B that Jack Benny uses. It seats only 320 people, and is filled every time it's used. Visitors often remark on its pleasant and tasteful color scheme, robin's-egg blue and deep red — but to the Bing it's just black and white. He's color blind.

(Radio Mirror, 27th April, 1939)

 

No.  144  4th May 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Gladys Swarthout, Lola Lane and Bruce Cabot.


*Delightful Delirium                                                   (a)          with The Music Maids

*Delightful Delirium (parody)                                    (a)          with Bob Burns (vocal & bazooka)

  Stormy Weather                                                                       Lola Lane

*I Promise You (Harford/Ritter)                                 (b)

  Bob Burns spot

*Tuck Me To Sleep In My Old ‘Tucky Home            (a)         with The Music Maids

*East Side Of Heaven

  Bruce Cabot spot

  Romance De Solita                                                                Gladys Swarthout

  When I Have Sung My Songs                                                Gladys Swarthout

  The Continental                                                                      John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Little Sir Echo                                                                        with The Music Maids

 

Notes:

(a)              Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8” 

(b)         Spokane 14 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume Two”


Bing Crosby and his cast will pause tonight during the “Music Hall” program to honor the memory of one of America’s foremost songwriters. “Tuck Me to Sleep in My Old Kentucky Home” rated the largest seller of all time in the ranks of sheet music. Last week, Joe Young, co-author of song, died. Tonight Bing Crosby will dedicate his “Memory Song” to Joe and sing Joe’s greatest hit “Tuck Me to Sleep.” Guests of the program will be Lola Lane, Bruce Cabot and Mischa Levitsky.

(Democrat and Chronicle, May 4, 1939)

 

No.  145  11th May 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Wendy Barrie, Toscha Seidel and Louis Hayward.

 

*Hang Your Heart On A Hickory Limb

*Hang Your Heart On A Hickory Limb (parody)                   with Bob Burns

  Louis Hayward spot

*And The Angels Sing

  Bob Burns spot

*Bye, Bye Blackbird

*Our Love

  Wendy Barrie spot

  Canzonetta                                                                            Toscha Seidel (violin)

  Valse Bluette                                                                         Toscha Seidel (violin)

  Shadrack                                                                               John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair

 

“Bing Crosby will introduce his new vocal ‘find’, Pat Friday, UCLA co-ed, during his broadcast over KFI at 6 pm.  Bob Burns’ weekly story is never read by Bing Crosby or anyone else on the show until the broadcast itself.  Following the afternoon rehearsal, Bob retires to a dressing room near the studio and makes a few notes on the back of an envelope.  These are key words in his story but it is never written out” 

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 11th May 1939)

(Miss Friday’s scheduled appearance was postponed for two weeks due to illness)

 

No.  146  18th May 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Aldo Solito De Solis, Patricia Ellis and Basil Rathbone.

 

*Delightful Delirium                                                  (a)         with The Music Maids

  Patricia Ellis spot

  I'll Be A Fool Again                                                               Patricia Ellis

*Wishing (Will Make It So)                                       (b)         with The Music Maids

  Basil Rathbone spot

*When You Were Sweet Sixteen                               (c)

*If I Didn’t Care                                                        (d)

  Bob Burns spot

  Three Little Fishes                                                                 Bob Burns

  La Danse D'Olaf                                                                    Aldo Solito De Solis (piano)

  Etude In C-Sharp Minor                                                        Aldo Solito De Solis (piano)

  Stumblin'                                                                                John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me                                                          with The Music Maids

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8 (N.B. Although “Wishing (Will Make It So)” is shewn on both sleeve and label, of this issue, the song is not included)

(b)        JSP Records CD JSP6705 - "Here's Bing Crosby!"

(c)        JSP Records CD JSP6705 - "Here's Bing Crosby!"

(d)        JSP Records CD JSP6705 - "Here's Bing Crosby!"


Among the most loyal Kraft Music Hall alumni is Basil Rathbone who’ll join Patricia Ellis in paying Bing Crosby a visit today. Aided and abetted by Bob Bums, the Music Maids, and John Scott Trotter’s orchestra, Bing will heard over the NBC-WFBC network at 10 p.m. Rathbone hasn't been in the K.M.H. precincts since his annual Christmas call which has become a tradition. He’ll exchange banter with Bing and Bob who’ll attempt to get him to employ his masterful delivery on a poem.
    Suddenly discovering she possessed an attractive singing voice, Patricia Ellis has been warbling in vaudeville and night-clubs throughout the country. She'll try a song duet with master crooner Crosby.
    Still undaunted in his efforts to have “Friday on Thursday” Bing hopes the young U. C. L. A. coed, Pat Friday, will be recovered from her laryngitis in time to go on this week’s show. It kept her from making a scheduled appearance last Thursday.

(The Greenville News, (South Carolina).  May 18, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "A good show."


No.  147  25th May 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Pat Friday, Beverly Roberts and Freddie Bartholomew.

 

*The Lady’s In Love With You

*The Lady’s In Love With You (parody)                              with Bob Burns

  Beverly Roberts spot

  American Medley                                                                Beverly Roberts

*And The Angels Sing

  Freddie Bartholomew spot

*That Old Gang Of Mine

*I Cried For You

  Bob Burns spot

  Begin The Beguine                                                               Pat Friday

  Sing A Song Of Sunbeams                                                    Pat Friday

*Sing A Song Of Sunbeams (parody)                                     with Pat Friday

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane)


Freddie Bartholomew will be one of a trio of youthful guests on Bing Crosby’s NBC-WMBG Music Hall broadcast at 9 o’clock tonight. Beverly Roberts, young film star, will chat with Crosby and Bob Burns during the broadcast and Pat Friday, U.C.L.A coed, will keep a date that was twice postponed because of illness.
(Richmond Times-Dispatch, May 25, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Entertainment: Good. General remarks: Friday was terrific even if she did blow the ending of 'Sunbeams'."

 

No.  148  1st June 1939 

 

With Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Mary Brodel, Dr. Walter Damrosch and Walter Huston.

 

*Whistling In The Wildwood                                                     with The Music Maids

*Whistling In The Wildwood (parody)                                       with Bob Burns

  Walter Huston spot

  September Song                                                                        Walter Huston

*If I Didn’t Care

  Bob Burns spot

*Nobody

  Hail  KMH                                                                                 Ken Carpenter

  Themes From Beethoven's Fifth                                                Dr. Walter Damrosch (piano)

*East Side Of Heaven

  Mary Brodel spot

  The Ugly Duckling                                                                     Mary Brodel

  The Wedding Of The Painted Doll                                            John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me                                                              with The Music Maids


Bob Burns hopes to get Walter Damrosch to pass on the merits of his musical invention, the bazooka, on Bing Crosby’s Music Hall tonight.  Mr. Damrosch will probably “pass” the buck to Walter Huston, another guest. Bing Crosby’s new singing discovery, Pat Friday, 17-year old coed at the University of California, had offers from two movie companies within a few hours after her debut last Thursday night. Pat declined both offers with a view to finishing her schooling by January 1941.

(Pittsburgh-Post Gazette, June 1, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Had fight, Baer-Nova, against us for 50 minutes."

 

No.  149  8th June 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Linda Ware, Bert Lahr and Lucille Ball.

 

*Snug As A Bug In A Rug                                        (a)         with The Music Maids

*Snug As A Bug In A Rug (parody)                                       with Bob Burns

  Bert Lahr spot

*Three Shif'less Skonks                                                          with Bert Lahr & Bob Burns

*I’m Building A Sailboat Of Dreams

  Bob Burns spot

*Oh! By Jingo                                                           (a)          with The Music Maids

*Wishing (Will Make It So)

  Lucille Ball spot

  The Waltz Of The Flowers                                                    Linda Ware

*School Days (few lines)                                                         with Linda Ware

  The Darktown Strutters' Ball                                                 Linda Ware

  Stumblin'                                                                                John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*If I Had My Way                                                                   with The Music Maids                                                     

 

Note:

(a)        Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”


Lucille Ball, who doesn’t mind playing “beautiful but dumb” parts on the screen, will take such a role on Bing Crosby’s “Music Hall” program tonight at ten o’clock. Miss Ball will attempt to outwit Bing and Bob in an interview. Bert Lahr will also appear on the program.

(Democrat and Chronicle, June 8, 1939)

 

No.  150  15th June 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, The Music Maids, Pat Friday, Donald Meek and Walter Connolly.

 

*Whistling In The Wildwood                                                    with The Music Maids

*Whistling In The Wildwood/By A Waterfall (Parody)           with Bob Burns (bazooka & vocal)

  Walter Connolly spot

*And The Angels Sing

  Bob Burns spot

*Show Me The Way To Go Home

  Bells Of KMH                                                                         Ken Carpenter

*Stairway To The Stars

  Donald Meek spot

*Comin' Thro' The Rye                                                             with Donald Meek

  Night And Day                                                                        Pat Friday

  The Lady's In Love With You                                                Pat Friday

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane)

*That Sly Old Gentleman (From Featherbed Lane) (parody)


A pair of the cinema’s’ finest character actors, Walter Connolly and Donald Meek, with Pat Friday, U.C.L.A coed, drop around to K.M.H. to say goodbye to the departing Bing Crosby who begins his summer vacation immediately following the broadcast over KTBS tonight at 8 o’clock. Separate interviews will be dreamed up by Bing and Bob to pump facts out of Walter Connolly and Donald Meek. The heavy Mr. Connolly is never at loss for words while the light Mr. Meek takes “timid soul” roles on the screen. Bing’s singing discovery, Pat Friday, is brought back to the program by popular demand to sing two songs.

(The Shreveport Times, June 15, 1939)


Robert J. Brewster, J. Walter Thompson Program Director, commented: "Pat Friday excellent. Connolly and Meek got laughs, show had pace. Imagine.

 

NOTE:           

Bing did not appear in the four consecutive programmes dated 22nd June, 29th June, 6th July and 13th July.  (As usual, Bob Burns was ‘in the chair’, during Bing’s lay-off and guests included, Jack Oakie, Harry Carey, Edward Arnold, Kay Francis, Melvyn Douglas, Hedda Hopper, Brian Donlevy and Donald Crisp.  Pat Friday stayed as the songstress and although explanations have not been uncovered, we have the unusual ‘gimmick’ of Bing guesting on his ‘own’ programme to promote the songs from "The Star Maker" [No. 151].)

 

No.  151  20th July 1939 

 

With Ken Carpenter, Bob Burns, The Music Maids, Pat Friday, Jane Bryan and Robert Coote.

 

*Go Fly A Kite                                                            (a)

*Go Fly A Kite (parody)                                                          with Bob Burns          

  Jane Bryan spot
*Hullabaloo Belay                                                                    with Jane Bryan & Bob Burns

*An Apple For The Teacher                                        (a)         with The Music Maids

*Comes Love (parody)                                                             with Pat Friday

  Bob Burns spot

  An Apple For The Teacher (parody)                                       Ken Carpenter

*Still The Bluebird Sings                                             (a)

  Robert Coote spot

*In My Merry Oldsmobile

  I've Got You Under My Skin                                                  Pat Friday

  Canadian Capers                                                                     John Scott Trotter Orchestra

*A Man And His Dream

 

Note:

(a)                Spokane 29 - “Bing In The Thirties - Volume 8”

 

“Bing Crosby will make a guest appearance on his own program over KFI at 6 pm.  He will sing, ‘A Man And His Dream’, ‘Go Fly A Kite’, ‘An Apple For The Teacher’, ‘In My Merry Oldsmobile’ and ‘Still The Bluebird Sings’”

(“Hollywood Citizen News” 20th July 1939)

 

Go to 1939-40 season

 

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