Al Jolson Podcast: Recent Episodes
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A weekly podcast featuring Al Jolson, The World's Greatest Entertainer, sponsored by the International Al Jolson Society
Another unique item from the June 15, 1936, broadcast is this rendition of "Is It True What They Say About Dixie?" which included a rarely heard verse, and not Jolson's usual ending for the tune. There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Unlike other renditions of "Toot, Toot, Toosie," this one from a June 15, 1936, broadcast features sounds of Ruby tap dancng rather than Al whistling duing the bridge. One wonders it it's really Ruby's shoes or a sound man's device. There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Starting with some Jolson - Keeler banter, and punctuated by a Jolson remark, here is a greate performance of "A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody" by Al Jolson from June 15, 1936. There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Introduced by George Jessel on the June 11, 1937, "Hollywood Hotel" program, Al Jolson sang "My Blushin' Rosie," with an arrangement and lyrics more faithful to the original than the version heard in "The Jolson Story." There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Jolie and Georgie joined voices for a spirited rendition of the George M Cohan classic, "Give My Regards To Broadway," from the June 11, 1937, broadcast of "Hollywood Hotel." There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Appearing on Eddie Cantor's radio program on June 4, 1941, Al paid tribute to Eddie's wedding anniversary by singing "Ida" in tribute to Eddie's wife of 27 years. After the song, Eddie noted Al's generosity with his payment for the broadcast. There is more material in the complete program which, along with other Jolson radio shows, circulates on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 15 Jun 1936 Lux Radio Theatre broadcast of Burlesque, featuring Al Jolson and Ruby Keeler. This segment features Al Jolson singing three songs from the program, some comedy scripted between Jolson and Keeler, and even some of Ruby's tap dancing. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 11 Jun 1937 Hollywood Hotel, featuring Al Jolson and George Jessel. This segment features Jolson singing an earlier version of "Ma Blushin' Rosie," and Jolson and Jessel doing a duet of "Give My Regards To Broadway." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 Jun 1945 Milton Berle Show, featuring Al Jolson with biographical musical vignettes of his life. Having just recovered from the loss of much of a lung, Jolson's appearance between V-E Day and V-J Day was a poignant look at the World's Greatest Entertainer in a fragile time of his life. Listen to his words about racial and ethnic tolerance, so moving from a man often painted as a racist. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 02 Jun 1947 Lux Radio Theatre, which featured a radio version of the movie "The Jazz Singer," starring Al Jolson, Ludwig Donath, Tamara Shayne, and Gail Patrick. This edited clip features a smattering of dialog from the program, along with Al Jolson singing "Toot, Toot, Tootsie," "Keep Smiling At Trouble," and "I'm Sitting On Top Of The World. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 26 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Groucho Marx. This was Al Jolson's final broadcast as host of the Kraft Music Hall, and it happened to be his birthday as well. He sang the great Cole Porter song, "Why Can't You Behave?" from Kiss Me Kate. With Groucho he engaged in the usual comedy banter, which includes what may be the longest set up for a joke in radio history. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 19 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Dorothy Kirsten. Ms. Kirsten leads the segment with an operatic aria befitting her status with the Metropolitan Opera. Following that, she and Jolson banter about a bit with the subject of opera. Jolson and Kirsten end the segment with a great rendition of "People Will Say We're In Love." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 12 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Victor Moore. Jolson and Moore join in some typical radio comedy, and end the routine in a duet of "Pretty Baby." After that, you can hear Al Jolson solo in the great song from South Pacific, "Some Enchanted Evening." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 05 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Dennis Day. In this edited segment, Dennis Day shows his talent for dialect, and even a little Yiddish, as he paired with Al Jolson in a comdey routine, capped off with a duet of "By The Light Of The Silvery Moon." Al Jolson finished the segment with a rarely heard tribute to Mother's Day, "Remember Mother's Day." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 28 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Doris Day. In this edited segment, Al Jolson sings "You'll Always Be Beautiful" and "That Wonderful Girl Of Mine," Doris Day and Al Jolson do a great duet, and there is a comedy segment with Ken Carpenter and Oscar Levant featuring the usual assortment of blown lines and gags. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 21 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Jimmy Durante. In this edited segment, Jolson and Durante explore the possibility of a world tour, aided by the acting skills of Oscar Levant. They end the segment with a great version of "Real Piano Player." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 14 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Margaret Whiting. The daughter of songwriter Richard Whiting, Margaret joins Al in two duets along with a turn of her own in this edited portion of the broadcast. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson, singing two classic Jolson numbers and a contemporary song from "Kiss Me Kate." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Groucho Marx. Groucho tries valiantly to sell Al Jolson a baseball team, and the two conclude the segment with a duet of "That Little German Band." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 30 Mar 1943 Al Jolson Colgate program. Although only part of this show survives, the closing song was this one, dedicated to the American soldier. It is just as meaningful today as it was when performed, during the height of the Second World War. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 24 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with George Jessel. George Jessel joined Al Jolson and Oscar Levant in a series of jokes and personal recollections, capped by a recreation of an old time minstrel show. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 17 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Oscar Levant. Al Jolson sings "At Sundown," engages in some banter with Oscar Levant, and concludes with a song for St. Patrick's Day, "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 17 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans join Al Jolson and Oscar Levant in a fanciful look at a western movie. Rogers and Evans sing "San Anton." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Jimmy Durante. After a singinging entrance, Al and Jimmy's edited comedy routine features Al Jolson singing "I Was Born In Virginny" and "Mary Is A Grand Old Name," by George M. Cohan, and Al and Jimmy duet in an extended version of Durante's classic "A Song's Gotta Come From The Heart." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with guest star Phil Harris. Harris brought Frank Remley, played by Elliott Lewis, as a guitar player who was looking for a job. After the comedy, Jolson sang Irving Berlin's "Remember." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Oscar Levant and guest star Dorothy Kirsten. During this edited segment, Al Jolson opens with "Waiting For The Robert E. Lee," then along with comedy, Dorothy Kirsten sings a great song, they interact about love and Jolson's new mustache, and conclude the segment with a wonderful duet. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 24 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Oscar Levant and guest star The Andrews Sisters. During this segment, Al Jolson and The Andrews Sisters sing two songs, Way Down Yonder In New Orleans and Sonny Boy The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 17 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Oscar Levant and guest star Joan Davis. During this segment, Al and Joan do a comedy routine, and Jolson finishes with a song. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson, with guest star Peggy Lee. During this segment, Al and Peggy join voices to make some beautiful music. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson, who sang two songs along with a little story about George Jessel. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Dennis Day was the guest on this week's program, and this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Al Jolson and Dennis Day in song and comedy. Along with the jokes, enjoy Day with "A Little Bird Told Me That You Love Me," and Jolson singing "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson with guest star arthur Treacher. After some classic comedy between Al and Arthur, Al Jolson sings a heartfelt version of "Brother Can You Spare A Dime" rewritten for the March of Dimes, concluding with "Sonny Boy." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Arthur Treacher was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to Jolson giving a party, and Jolson's renditions of "Carolina In The Morning," and "I Got Lucky In The Rain," from a contemporary show. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 20 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson with guest star Victor Moore. Al and Victor engage in some comedy, age related and otherwise. Jolson concludes the segment with a stirring rendition of "Nearest Thing to Heaven." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 20 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Victor Moore was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, with some discussion about little Asa, Jr. After that, Jolie gave out with "If You Were The Only Girl In The World." Then, you heard it first in "The Jazz Singer," but here is a complete rendition of "Blue Skies." And after a little more schtick, "Someone Else May Be There While I'm Gone." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
From the Kraft Music Hall of 13 Jan 1949, here are Groucho Marx and Al Jolson in a great comdedy segment. The segment ends with Al Jolson singing a great Irving Belin tune. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Groucho Marx was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to Levant wanting to leave the show, and Jolson's renditions of "I'm Crying Just For You," and "She's A Latin From Manhattan," which has a Velveeta ending! The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
From the Kraft Music Hall of 06 Jan 1949, here are Larry Parks, who played Al Jolson in the two biopix of his life, and Al Jolson, exchanging comments and barbs. The segment ends with Al Jolson singing the hit song from "The Jolson Story," "Anniversary Song." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org..
Excerpt of the 06 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Larry Parks was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to the cast's expenses with the show broadcasting remotely from Palm Springs, and Jolson's renditions of "I Want A Girl Just Like The Girl That Married Dear Old Dad," "Don't Let It Get You Down," and "Ma Blushin' Rosie, Ma Posie Sweet." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 30 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Doris Day was the guest on this week's program, and this is a segment featuring Doris, Jolie, Oscar Levant and even Lou Bring. Enjoy Doris Day's hit number, "It's Magic," Jolie and Doris with a duet of "Melancholy Baby" and "My Blue Heaven" along with some classic comedy. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
This excerpt of the 23 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall includes a wonderful rendition of "White Christmas" by Al Jolson, and a selection of carols by the Kraft Choral Club. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 23 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. The Kraft Choral Club closed this Christmas program; this edited segment is from the middle of the program, and features "Mother MacCree," "She's My Daisy," and that great Jolson hit, "Waiting for the Robert E. Lee." The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 16 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Dinah Shore joined Al Jolson on the show, and this segment features Jolson singing "Dinah," followed by Shore singing "I'll Be Seeing You," and both of them in a duet with "Put Your Arms Around Me, Honey." Oscar Levant is in the mix, as well, making a great ten minute podcast. The complete broadcast circulates with other Jolson radio shows on the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 09 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson with his guest star, Dennis Day. Dennis Day starts off the segment imitating Jolson, and the comedy continues from there. Showing the versitility of Dennis Day, it concludes with one of Day's classic numbers. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 02 Dec 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Peggy Lee joined Al Jolson singing "People Will Say We're In Love" and "The Birth of the Blues," along with some wonderful banter. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 18 Nov 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Groucho Marx was the guest star on this program, but this segment is from the middle section of the broadcast, and features Al Jolson and Oscar Levant, in comedy and song. After a cheesy introduction by Levant, Al Jolson sang "Dirty Hands, Dirty Face," "I Wonder What's Become of Sally," and "Christmas Dreaming," a holiday song rarely heard today. There is much more in the complete show, including a comedy routine with Groucho. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 11 Nov 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. George Jessel was the guest star on this program, but this segment is from the middle section of the broadcast, and features Al Jolson and Oscar Levant, in comedy and song. Jolson's songs include "Mandy, "I'll Get By," and "I Only Have Eyes For You." There is much more in the complete show, including a skit with George Jessel. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 30 Sep 1948 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson with guest star Judy Garland. This edited excerpt includes a great rendition of "When The Red, Red, Robin Comes Bob, Bob, Bobbin' Along," a comdedy segment with Al Jolson , Judy Garland, and Oscar Levant, and a duet with Al Jolson and Judy Garland in "Pretty Baby." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 28 Sep 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson with guest star Ginger Rogers. This is the last segment of the program, with Al Jolson introducing Ginger Rogers, and having fun with her as she sings "No Strings" and "Isn't It A Lovely Day," with Jolie's help. After that, he notes the conclusion of this radio series, and sings "Sonny Boy." There are many other Jolson songs and stars in this one hour radio show, that is a delight to hear. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 21 Sep 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Among the songs in the show are these two excerpts, featuring songs from then popular films. From the movie "Page Miss Glory," he sang the title song. From the movie "Top Hat," he sang "Isn't It A Lovely Day." More of Al Jolson's singing, along with a slew of guest stars, is contained in the full radio program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 14 Sep 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson with guest star Fannie Brice. Al Jolson begins the segment with a medley of three songs: "Whispering," "My Melancholy Baby," and "Poor Butterfly."Jolson then introduces Fannie Brice, the original Funny Girl, singing her signature piece, "My Man." The segment concludes with Al Jolson singing a song introduced in his movie, "Mammy," although this time in dialect, "Yes, We Have No Bananas." More of Al Jolson, Fannie Brice, and others, is contained in the full radio program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 Sep 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Jolson took some time plugging a movie, starring his wife, Ruby Keeler, "Shipmates Forever." Among his performances in this hour long program, this podcast includes two songs from the movie, "I'd Like To Take Orders From You," and "I'd Rather Listen To Your Eyes." The segment concludes with Jolson singing sign off. More of Al Jolson, along with comedian Joe Penner and others, is contained in the full radio program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 31 Aug 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson with guest star George Jessel. Enjoy these segments of the program, featuring Al Jolson in an encore performance of "Coney Island" and introducing "Plain Old Me," along with part of George Jessel's routine, including his rendition of "Life Is A Song." More of both Jolson and Jessel are included in the complete, one hour, radio show. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 24 Aug 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Enjoy these segments of the program, featuring Al Jolson introducing the show, and singing two of the songs included in the show, "I Feel A Song Coming On," and "Isn't It A Lovely Day." More of Jolson's singing is in the full presentation of this radio show on the Jolson website, as always. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 17 Aug 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Enjoy these segments of the program, featuring Al Jolson introducing and singing two great songs, "Hello 'Tucky" and "When I Leave The World Behind." More of Jolson is in the full presentation of this radio show on the Jolson website, as always. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Aug 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Although the audio quality of this clip is sub-par, enjoy Al Jolson with jokes and patter, along with two great songs. More of Jolson, another song and more patter, is in the full presentation of this radio show on the Jolson website, as always. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Aug 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson with guest star George Jessel. The segment begins with Al Jolson's promo for George Jessel, followed by his singing "The Rose In Her Hair." Jessel then takes center stage with a routine capped by "It's Easy To Remember." Not to be outdone, Al Jolson completes the excerpt with the song, "Mighty Lak A Rose." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 Jul 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. The segment begins with Al Jolson theme song introduction, then follows with two songs from the program, "You Little Mischief Maker" and "His Majesty, The Baby," with comments about both songs. Within the full program, available on the Jolson website, Jolson sings another song, and engages in comedy bits with guests, as well. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 20 Jul 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Al Jolson begins this excerpt of a one hour show with a contrived radio joke, and gives some background about the songs as he sings "Coney Island," "Banks of the Wabash," "My Gal Sal," and "Rose In Her Hair." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 Jul 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Al Jolson begins with another joke about his father, then sings three unique songs in this podcast, which is only a small part of the one hour radio broadcast. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 Jul 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson. Al Jolson sings three unique songs in this podcast, which is only a small part of the one hour radio broadcast. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 29 Jun 1935 Shell Chateau starring Al Jolson with guest star Slapsie Maxie Rosenbloom. Al Jolson begins the segment with a comedy routine, and follows with two great songs, and a segment interviewing the famous boxer, which concludes with Rosenbloom singing a song in his unique style. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Jun 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Dorothy Kirsten, but this segment is an edited excerpt with the first and last songs of this, the last broadcast of the 1948 season of the program. After a topical reference to Gen. MacArthur, Jolson went back to near the beginning of his career, singing "Alexander's Ragtime Band." He then closed the program with a new song he had penned in tribute to the new Jewish state, "Israel." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Jun 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Ezio Pinza, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment from the middle of the program. It begins with a recognition of Jolson's receiving an award for service to humanity. His songs include "At Sundown," and "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," part of his service to posterity. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 May 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Dorothy Kirsten, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment from the middle of the program. It begins with a "Happy Birthday" to Al Jolson on his 62nd birthday, a full chorus of "April Showers," and a tribute to George Gershwin. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 20 May 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Henry Morgan, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment from the middle of the program. This segment could be called "You Made Me Love You," as that is the first song. What follows is an assortment of songs keyed to love and relationships that only Jolson could get away with. Many of these are unique to this broadcast. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 May 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Dorothy Kirsten, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment from the middle of the program. Enjoy a great musical baseball bit, and Jolson singing a song he really should have recorded. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 May 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Groucho Marx, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment which preceeded Groucho's entrance. Jolson shines in this segment, with "Let Me Sing And I'm Happy," and a song rarely heard today, but so relevant, "Remember Mother's Day." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 29 Apr 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. The guest star this week was Victor Moore, but this segment is an edited excerpt of the Jolson - Levant segment which preceeded Moore's entrance. Enjoy the banter, and Al Jolson singing "Nature Boy," "Give My Regards To Broadway," and "I Only Have Eyes For You"; then come over to the Jolson website to hear more. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 22 Apr 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. This is an edited sample of some of the material from the show, including Levant's piano, Jolson's singing, and guest star Dorothy Kirsten. It will give you some idea of how much fun these three were having during the broadcast, and make you want to pop over to the Jolson website to hear more. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 15 Apr 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Charles Boyer was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear his segment. This segment is includes Jolson's singing "All Alone" and "Dirty Hands, Dirty Face," some great and memorable Jolson - Levant banter, and even a political joke that still plays! The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 08 Apr 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Vera Vague was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear her segment. This segment is a great mix of Jolson and Levant, piano and voice, that you just have to listen to! The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 01 Apr 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. This edited segment of the program includes Jolson and Levant having fun with songs old and new, as well as Jimmy Durante's entrance and opening song, and a duet with Jolie. It's just a great sample of an even better radio program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 25 Mar 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Clifton Webb was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear his segment. This segment is just a free wheeling segment with Jolson and Levant perfoming all across their comfort zones. You just have to hear it! The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 18 Mar 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Edward G. Robinson was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear his segment. This segment includes Irish Eyes, an Indian Love ballad, and Frederic Chopin, among others, with Jolson and Levant in very fine form, indeed. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 11 Mar 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Edward Everett Horton was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear his segment, which includes one of his unique comedy ditties; this excerpt is plucked from the middle of the show, and features Jolson and Levant singing some very old songs, in their very typical way. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 04 Mar 1948 broadcast of the Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson. While Cary Grant was the guest on this week's show, you will have to listen to the full show on the Jolson site to hear his segment; this excerpt is plucked from the middle of the show, and features Jolson and Levant singing some very old songs, in their very typical way. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 May 1942 Command Performance with Al Jolson. This edited segment includes Marlene Dietrich's opening and interaction with Al Jolson, and Jolson singing "California, Here I Come." There is more from both of them, and others, in the 30 minute program posted to the International Al Jolson website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 22 May 1950 Lux Radio Theatre presentation of Jolson Sings Again. This edited clip includes William Demarest introducing Al Jolson as he entertained the troops. The radio adaptation includes all the main characters of the movie, with Al Jolson playing himself, in a one hour version of the second Jolson film biography. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 18 May 1947 Jack Benny Program with Al Jolson. After Jack Benny's introduction, Al's entrance is marked by one of those ovations that never seems to end, illustrating his popularity at the time. Enjoy an portion of the comedy dialog between Benny and Jolson, and Jolson capped the segment by singing "April Showers" and "You Made Me Love You." There's much more, as always, in the complete program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 May 1947 Bing Crosby Program with Al Jolson. Irving Berlin appeared on this show along with Bing and Al, and all the music is his, of course. Here is a little clip with Bing and Al singing "All By Myself" and "Alexander's Ragtime Band." This live duet is a bit different than the released Decca version, but you can see the similarity. There's much more, of course, in the complete program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 May 1950 Bing Crosby Program with Al Jolson. This would be Al's last appearance on Bing's radio show, and the complete show is a great one. In this podcast clip, you will hear Bing introduce Al, with Jolie's opening number being "Give My Regards To Broadway," followed by Bing and Al in duet for "My Blushin' Rosie" and "Avalon." There's much more, as always, in the complete program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 08 Apr 1947 Bob Hope Program with guest star Al Jolson. This clip from the 30 minute show includes Jolie's introduction and ovation, "California, Here I Come," and comedy between Jolson and Hope. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 Apr 1947 Lux Radio Theatre production of "Alexander's Ragtime Band," with Al Jolson. Although not in the movie upon which this one hour radio drama is based, Al Jolson lent his particular talents with Irving Berlin's music to this adaptation, playing himself. Within this excerpt you will hear Jolson sing "Alexander's Ragtime Band," "Lazy," and "A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody." There's more, of course, in the complete program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 02 Apr 1947 Bing Crosby Program with Al Jolson and John Charles Thomas. This excerpt is the last segment of the show, which was structured as an old time minstrel show. Enjoy a rare radio rendition of Al Jolson singing "My Mammy," and Jolson, Crosby, and Thomas with "Alabamy Bound." There's much more, of course, in the complete program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 02 Apr 1945 Lux Radio Theatre broadcast of Swanee River. This radio adaptation of the movie biography of songwriter Stephen Foster featured Al Jolson as E.P. Christie, and Dennis Morgan as Stephen Foster. Included in this podcast are two songs from the hour broadcast, "Oh, Susannah!" and "April Showers." The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 04 Mar 1949 Jimmy Durante program with guest star Al Jolson. In this edited excerpt from the end of the show, Durante and Alan Young plan to bring Jolson into their music publishing business. There is plenty of business, with snippets of songs by both Durante and Jolson, ending with the wonderful "Real Piano Player." The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 29 Mar 1950 Burns and Allen program with guest star Al Jolson. There is no reason to delve into the plot of this program, as the madcap comedy of Burns and Allen would not resurface until "Laugh In" decades later, but suffice it to say that this edited clip of the show includes George and Gracie, along with Al Jolson and "Easter Parade." And it is only a taste of the complete delicacy offered this week. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 Mar 1947 Eddie Cantor program with guest star Al Jolson. Here is Al Jolson singing two songs not elsewhere recorded, both associated with Eddie Cantor. Although Jolson introduced "If You Knew Susie," it was Cantor who popularized it, and "Ida, Sweet As Apple Cider" was sung by Eddie as a tribute to his wife. Here's Jolie doing both, along with comments from Cantor. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 05 Mar 1947 Bing Crosby program with guest star Al Jolson. This is a little clip from the show, with Bing and Al singing Jolson's classic "Who Paid The Rent For Mrs. Rip Van Winkle When Rip Van Winkle Went Away?" Of course, they do it better than I could describe! There is lots more in the complete half hour program. The complete broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 01 Nov 1938 Lifebuoy Program starring Al Jolson with guest Gov. Al Smith. This is the closing segment of the program, with Al Jolson going over old times with the former Governor of New York, Al Smith. Al Jolson concluded the segment with a rendition of "Avalon." This is, of course, just a sampling of the material in the half-hour radio show. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 18 Oct 1938 Lifebuoy Program starring Al Jolson. This is a sample of the material in the half hour show, which also stars Martha Raye and Parkyakarkus, with guest stars Marie Wilson and Charles Butterworth. Al Jolson's songs, "Confidentially," and "When Day Is Done," are included for your enjoyment. Within the program itself, on the Al Jolson Website, Jolson and Raye duet in "Sweet Georgia Brown," and several comic sketches are featured. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 01 Oct 1936 Sears program Then and Now guest starring Al Jolson. Along with other stars of the day, Al Jolson appeared on this programs celebrating Sears 50th anniversary, and sang excerpts of his hits in a biographical fashion. He also puts part of The Singing Fool on the radio, complete with "Sonny Boy." There's more on the whole show, but this podcast can give you a taste. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 Oct 1946 Barry Gray Show with Guest Star Al Jolson. Al Jolson appeared on the late night talk show just after the opening of The Jolson Story, and for almost 90 minutes told stories of his life, joked, and sang. This podcast contains three of the songs from that evening, Ma Blushin' Rosie, April Showers, and Swanee, and there is much more in the whole program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 26 Oct 1949 Steve Allen show with guest star Al Jolson. Al Jolson's candid, unscripted, appearance during this 45 minute broadcast is only hinted by the sample included in this podcast. Listen to him joke and interact with a very young Steve Allen, whose career was just starting, and thrill the audience with a performance of "California, Here I Come," with a long ovation in response. There is much more in the complete broadcast of this show, which will be on the Jolson website through the end of next month. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 01 Oct 1946 tribute broadcast to Al Jolson. This star-studded program originated from both New York and California, and included George Jessel, Eddie Cantor, Dinah Shore, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Perry Como, and others, in an hour long tribute to the World's Greatest Entertainer upon the release of The Jolson Story. This podcast includes songs by Eddie Cantor, Dinah Shore, and Frank Sinatra, along with the ending of the program by Mr. Jolson. If there is any doubt about how those in the business felt about Al Jolson, this should get rid of them for all time. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 16 Sep 1950 Al Jolson performance at the Itazuke Air Force Base in Japan. This excerpt includes three songs from the half-hour transcription, which includes Jolson joking and singing for his favorite audience, soldiers at the front. "Swanee," "April Showers," and "The Anniversary Song" are the three songs heard here, there is quite a bit more in the original program. This is likely the last transcribed performance of Al Jolson; he died about one month after this show. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 16 Sep 1933 broadcast from Belmont Park with Al Jolson. Having wrapped one movie, starting another, and headlining on the radio, Al Jolson took time to go to Belmont Park in New York, and appear on the radio to joke and call a race at the track. This is just a race and a little humor, there is much more in the 30 minute program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 16 Sep 1933 broadcast from Belmont Park with Al Jolson. Having wrapped one movie, starting another, and headlining on the radio, Al Jolson took time to go to Belmont Park in New York, and appear on the radio to joke and call a race at the track. This is just a race and a little humor, there is much more in the 30 minute program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September 8, 1937, Memorial Concert to George Gershwin with George Jessel and Al Jolson. This brief excerpt of the two hour program includes Jessel's eulogy of Gershwin, and Jolson's performance of Gershwin's first, and greatest, hit, "Swanee," which he sang without whistling. An edited version of this long show is currently online, along with other Jolson radio shows, at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September 8, 1937, Memorial Concert to George Gershwin with George Jessel and Al Jolson. This brief excerpt of the two hour program includes Jessel's eulogy of Gershwin, and Jolson's performance of Gershwin's first, and greatest, hit, "Swanee," which he sang without whistling. An edited version of this long show is currently online, along with other Jolson radio shows, at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September 7, 1937, Lifebuoy Program starring Al Jolson with guest George Jessel. This clip from the existing 16 minute transcription of the broadcast features Al Jolson and George Jessel having fun with "Toot, Toot, Tootsie." There's more, of course, in the existing segment, which is currently on the Jolson website. The broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September 7, 1937, Lifebuoy Program starring Al Jolson with guest George Jessel. This clip from the existing 16 minute transcription of the broadcast features Al Jolson and George Jessel having fun with "Toot, Toot, Tootsie." There's more, of course, in the existing segment, which is currently on the Jolson website. The broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September, 1949, polio drive program in Baltimore featuring Al Jolson. In this edited segment, Jolson recalled his boyhood in Charm City, and sang "April Showers," accompanied by Harry Akst. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the September, 1949, polio drive program in Baltimore featuring Al Jolson. In this edited segment, Jolson recalled his boyhood in Charm City, and sang "April Showers," accompanied by Harry Akst. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the August, 1942, Contact program starring Al Jolson. This program, broadcast in support of the military during World War II, featured Al Jolson as Honorary Soldier of the Week. This excerpt includes some topical humor, along with his popular "California, Here I Come." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the August, 1942, Contact program starring Al Jolson. This program, broadcast in support of the military during World War II, featured Al Jolson as Honorary Soldier of the Week. This excerpt includes some topical humor, along with his popular "California, Here I Come." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 Aug 1941 Treasury Hour Program, featuring Al Jolson. Having just closed his last Broadway show, Al Jolson joined in this effort to sell Defense Bonds before World War II erupted. Here is an edited version of his closing segment, which suggests the plot of his life story, The Jolson Story, to be made five years later. The complete one hour broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 13 Aug 1941 Treasury Hour Program, featuring Al Jolson. Having just closed his last Broadway show, Al Jolson joined in this effort to sell Defense Bonds before World War II erupted. Here is an edited version of his closing segment, which suggests the plot of his life story, The Jolson Story, to be made five years later. The complete one hour broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 08 Jun 1948 broadcast of The Eddie Cantor Pabst Blue Ribbon Program with guest star Al Jolson. Al Jolson took note of the 34th anniversary of Eddie and Ida Cantor being wed, and sang a song to them as only he could. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Aug 1938 Tribute to Irving Berlin featuring Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor and Irving Berlin. This one hour radio program was both a tribute to Berlin, and a plug for the new movie Alexander's Ragtime Band. Along with the many other stars in the show, enjoy three great stars singing great Berlin tunes. The complete one hour broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 08 Jun 1948 broadcast of The Eddie Cantor Pabst Blue Ribbon Program with guest star Al Jolson. Al Jolson took note of the 34th anniversary of Eddie and Ida Cantor being wed, and sang a song to them as only he could. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Aug 1938 Tribute to Irving Berlin featuring Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor and Irving Berlin. This one hour radio program was both a tribute to Berlin, and a plug for the new movie Alexander's Ragtime Band. Along with the many other stars in the show, enjoy three great stars singing great Berlin tunes. The complete one hour broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 23 Jul 1944 broadcast of Your All Time Hit Parade, starring Tommy Dorsey with guest star Al Jolson. Recovering from illness contracted while entertaining the troops in World War II, Al Jolson appeared on just this program during the summer of 1944. Singing two songs, one of which, April Showers, is featured in the podcast, he continued the work he started to maintain the morale of our fighting men and women. Harry von Zell is also featured on this broadcast. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 16 Jul 1940 broadcast from Arlington Park with Al Jolson. Appearing in Chicago promoting his last Broadway show then in preview, Al Jolson took time to call a race at the track. This is just the race, there is much more in the ten minute program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 12 Jul 1937 Tribute to George Gershwin, featuring Al Jolson. This was one of two numbers performed by Al Jolson on a radio tribute broadcast the evening following George Gershwin's death. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the June, 1935, Go Into Your Dance radio promotion starring Al Jolson with Ruby Keeler. This is a brief clip from a ten minute radio promotion for the Jolson - Keeler flick which was then premiering all over the country. Enjoy Jolson singing "Mammy, I'll Sing About You," then listen to the rest of the show on the website, and then watch the movie! The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 04 Jun 1941 Eddie Cantor Program with guest star Al Jolson. Jolie did not sing a lot of songs during this great show, but this tribute to Eddie Cantor's wife is a singular gem. Enjoy it, and all of the material from the show in the full program. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 15 Jun 1936 Lux Radio Theatre broadcast of Burlesque, featuring Al Jolson and Ruby Keeler. This segment features Al Jolson singing three songs from the program, some comedy scripted between Jolson and Keeler, and even some of Ruby's tap dancing. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 11 Jun 1937 Hollywood Hotel, featuring Al Jolson and George Jessel. This segment features Jolson singing an earlier version of "Ma Blushin' Rosie," and Jolson and Jessel doing a duet of "Give My Regards To Broadway." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 Jun 1945 Milton Berle Show, featuring Al Jolson with biographical musical vignettes of his life. Having just recovered from the loss of much of a lung, Jolson's appearance between V-E Day and V-J Day was a poignant look at the World's Greatest Entertainer in a fragile time of his life. Listen to his words about racial and ethnic tolerance, so moving from a man often painted as a racist. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 02 Jun 1947 Lux Radio Theatre, which featured a radio version of the movie "The Jazz Singer," starring Al Jolson, Ludwig Donath, Tamara Shayne, and Gail Patrick. This edited clip features a smattering of dialog from the program, along with Al Jolson singing "Toot, Toot, Tootsie," "Keep Smiling At Trouble," and "I'm Sitting On Top Of The World." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 26 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Groucho Marx. This was Al Jolson's final broadcast as host of the Kraft Music Hall, and it happened to be his birthday as well. He sang the great Cole Porter song, "Why Can't You Behave?" from Kiss Me Kate. With Groucho he engaged in the usual comedy banter, which includes what may be the longest set up for a joke in radio history. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 19 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Dorothy Kirsten. Ms. Kirsten leads the segment with an operatic aria befitting her status with the Metropolitan Opera. Following that, she and Jolson banter about a bit with the subject of opera. Jolson and Kirsten end the segment with a great rendition of "People Will Say We're In Love." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 12 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Victor Moore. Jolson and Moore join in some typical radio comedy, and end the routine in a duet of "Pretty Baby." After that, you can hear Al Jolson solo in the great song from South Pacific, "Some Enchanted Evening." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 05 May 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Dennis Day. In this edited segment, Dennis Day shows his talent for dialect, and even a little Yiddish, as he paired with Al Jolson in a comdey routine, capped off with a duet of "By The Light Of The Silvery Moon." Al Jolson finished the segment with a rarely heard tribute to Mother's Day, "Remember Mother's Day." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 28 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Doris Day. In this edited segment, Al Jolson sings "You'll Always Be Beautiful" and "That Wonderful Girl Of Mine," Doris Day and Al Jolson do a great duet, and there is a comedy segment with Ken Carpenter and Oscar Levant featuring the usual assortment of blown lines and gags. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 21 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Jimmy Durante. In this edited segment, Jolson and Durante explore the possibility of a world tour, aided by the acting skills of Oscar Levant. They end the segment with a great version of "Real Piano Player." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 14 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Margaret Whiting. The daughter of songwriter Richard Whiting, Margaret joins Al in two duets along with a turn of her own in this edited portion of the broadcast. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 07 Apr 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Groucho Marx. Groucho tries valiantly to sell Al Jolson a baseball team, and the two conclude the segment with a duet of "That Little German Band." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 30 Mar 1943 Al Jolson Colgate program. Although only part of this show survives, the closing song was this one, dedicated to the American soldier. It is just as meaningful today as it was when performed, during the height of the Second World War. The extant broadcast recording, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 24 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with George Jessel. George Jessel joined Al Jolson and Oscar Levant in a series of jokes and personal recollections, capped by a recreation of an old time minstrel show. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 17 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans join Al Jolson and Oscar Levant in a fanciful look at a western movie. Rogers and Evans sing "San Anton." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 10 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Jimmy Durante. After a singinging entrance, Al and Jimmy's edited comedy routine features Al Jolson singing "I Was Born In Virginny" and "Mary Is A Grand Old Name," by George M. Cohan, and Al and Jimmy duet in an extended version of Durante's classic "A Song's Gotta Come From The Heart." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Mar 1949 Kraft Music Hall, starring Al Jolson with Oscar Levant and guest star Phil Harris. Harris brought Frank Remley, played by Elliott Lewis, as a guitar player who was looking for a job. After the comedy, Jolson sang Irving Berlin's "Remember." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 03 Feb 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Dennis Day was the guest on this week's program, and this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Al Jolson and Dennis Day in song and comedy. Along with the jokes, enjoy Day with "A Little Bird Told Me That You Love Me," and Jolson singing "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 27 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Arthur Treacher was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to Jolson giving a party, and Jolson's renditions of "Carolina In The Morning," and "I Got Lucky In The Rain," from a contemporary show. The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 20 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Victor Moore was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, with some discussion about little Asa, Jr. After that, Jolie gave out with "If You Were The Only Girl In The World." Then, you heard it first in
Excerpt of the 13 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Groucho Marx was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to Levant wanting to leave the show, and Jolson's renditions of "I'm Crying Just For You," and "She's A Latin From Manhattan," which has a Velveeta ending! The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.
Excerpt of the 06 Jan 1949 Kraft Music Hall starring Al Jolson. Larry Parks was the guest on this week's program, but this podcast is from the middle part of the show, and features Jolson, Oscar Levant, Ken Carpenter, and Lou Bring. Enjoy the scripted comedy, which refers to the cast's expenses with the show broadcasting remotely from Palm Springs, and Jolson's renditions of "I Want A Girl Just Like The Girl That Married Dear Old Dad," "Don't Let It Get You Down," and "Ma Blushin' Rosie, Ma Posie Sweet." The complete broadcast, along with other Jolson radio shows, is available at the Official Al Jolson Website at www.jolson.org.