Kay Kyser

Known for

Acting

Born

Jun 18, 1905

Died

Jul 23, 1985

From

Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USA

James Kern Kyser (June 18, 1905 – July 23, 1985), known as Kay Kyser, was a popular radio personality and bandleader in the 1930's and 40's. Kyser's most popular show was Kay Kyser's Kollege of Musical Knowledge, which combined popular music with a quiz show format. It aired on Mutual Radio in 1938 and then moved to NBC Radio from 1939 to 1949. Kyser led the band as “The Ol’ Perfessor,” spouting signature catch phrases like, “That’s right—you’re wrong,” “Evenin’ folks, how y’all?” and “C'mon, chillun! Le's dance!” Kyser was also known for having his singers sing the song titles, a device copied by Sammy Kaye and Blue Barron. When the song began, one of the band's lead singers (usually Harry Babbitt) sang the title phrase, and then the first verse or two of the song was performed instrumentally before the lyrics resumed.

Images

Credits

You'll Find Out

19405.6out of 10

Thousands Cheer

19436.4out of 10

Stage Door Canteen

19436.3out of 10

The Movie Orgy

19686.8out of 10

The Mike Douglas Show

19615.8out of 10

My Favorite Spy

19425.7out of 10

Playmates

19415.7out of 10

Africa Squeaks

19405.8out of 10

Around the World

19436.8out of 10

That's Right – You're Wrong

19396.2out of 10

Swing Fever

19436.0out of 10

Carolina Blues

19445.8out of 10

Show-Business at War

19437.0out of 10

If I Forget You

19406.2out of 10

Invisible Opponent

19336.5out of 10

Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 2

19417.0out of 10

Showbiz Goes to War

198210.0out of 10

Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 1

19417.0out of 10