It was very pleasing indeed to note the wonderful centenary celebrations taking place in Spokane in October marking Bing’s departure from that city to begin his incredible career. Mary Crosby and her family were there and played an important part. Well done to all concerned, your hard work is much appreciated.

Now 2026 is on the horizon and it’s an important year for us as it marks 100 years since Bing’s first commercial recording and 90 years since Club Crosby was formed. It will also be 90 years since Bing became the host of the Kraft Music Hall and 80 years since Philco Radio Time, launched as the first pre-recorded radio program, aired on the major USA radio networks.

In recognition of these significant milestones, a limited and numbered edition 2-CD set has been sponsored by the ICC to feature Bing’s enduring radio performances from 1930 to 1953. Only 500 of this set will be manufactured. John Mumm supplies details in Keeping Track and an insert with this magazine gives ordering options.


This issue of the magazine is, as usual, packed with a diverse collection of articles and I am sure that there will be something for everyone. One very sad item is the news that our major contributor, John Newton, has passed away. Michael Crampton has more on this.


A new vinyl EP with Bing and country singer Lainey Wilson had just been launched as we went to press and hopefully we will soon hear it popping up alongside the usual seasonal deluge of Bing’s Christmas recordings.


I wish you all the compliments of the season with every good wish for the New Year.



    Malcolm Macfarlane - Editor

 

    This 56-page glossy magazine continues to be essential reading for the serious Crosby supporter and order your copy of the magazine now by contacting Perry Huntoon (phone: (630) 357-5374).

 

    To see details of earlier issues, click here.


CONTENTS OF BING #201

Editorial
Secretary / Treasurer’s Report

The Private Collection of Kathryn and Bing
ICC Online Meetings
Bing Crosby Advocates
Bing Crosby 100th Anniversary Event
‘Dad Loved This Place’
Another showing of White Christmas
Tis the Season to be Jolly
African Safari
Bing’s Hayden Lake home

The Crosby Chanteuses
The Search Is Through
Trading Post
Books ‘n’ Bing

Press clippings

This Man Joe Lilley

75 Years of “Sam’s Song”

Celluloid Crosby

Economy Size Crosby

The Road Movies, Ranked Worst to Best

One Sweet Letter from You

Harmonizing with Bing - part one

Forgotten Verses Quiz

Hannibal Lecter and The Groaner
Ken Crossland’s Crosbyana

A Note from Australia
Bing on the Box
Once in a While

The Way We Were

Keeping Track