Bing Crosby: A Life from Beginning to End (Biographies of Musicians)

One highlight of the week is seeing the new titles of Hourly History. They usually come out on Thursdays and Fridays. This biography gives a concise overview of a wonderful entertainer. Bing Crosby became a beloved singer with his relaxed crooning. Besides selling millions of records, he also did well in movies, radio, and television. But there were problems in his personal life. His first wife died of cancer. Things didn't always go smoothly with his children. Yet many did enjoy his great talents, especially around Christmas. Not surprisingly, Hourly Histories can only tell part of the story. Only a few of his hit songs are mentioned. It's mentioned that he and frequent partner Bob Hope made a cameo in the Martin and Lewis movie Scared Stiff. That movie was a remake of one they did. (Martin and Lewis would cameo in Road to Bali.) Oh yeah, one of these men is called Jerry Louis. Crosby's love of golf and his involvement in horse racing got mentioned. But he was also a leading figure in the development of videotape. His company produced the TV series Hogan's Heroes and original Walking Tall movie. Still, this short book is a good introduction to Der Bingle. The bibliography is a good place to start.

This is an interesting glimpse into the life of 'Bing' Crosby.In spite of his success and fame he always seemed humble and comfortable in his public persona. Always liked him in 'High Society'.However, it seems like he was not such a good father to the children of his first marriage - with so much resulting sadness.…a satisfying biography….

I downloaded this book for free then read it because I learned Kathrine Grant married Cosby. Now I need her bio. Definitely worth reading. I only noticed one typo.

Harry Lillis 'Bing' Crosby Jr. (1903 – 1977) a prolific American singer and actor, the first multimedia star, and one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century worldwide. He was a leader in record sales, radio ratings, and motion picture grosses from 1926 to 1977. He made over 70 feature films and recorded more than 1,600 songs. Crosby influenced the development of the post World War II recording industry. After seeing a demonstration of a German broadcast quality reel-to-reel tape recorder brought to the United States by John T. Mullin, he invested $50,000 in the California electronics company Ampex to build copies. He then persuaded ABC to allow him to tape his shows. He became the first performer to prerecord their radio shows and master his commercial recordings onto magnetic tape. (Wiki)

it's good and clearly written. However, it's too short.

A great review of an artistic entertainer who sang the songs of our lives during the 1930s and on into the 1950s. I was born in 1948... And so I grew up in the 1960s watching him and Bob Hope on Saturday mornings in their movies, the "Road to Morocco" and the "Road to Rio" which were always entertaining.

I have never given Hourly History a 1-star rating before, but this one deserves it. I usually enjoy Hourly History and look forward to seeing their new titles every Friday. |But this one was a disappointment for several reasons:- How can Hourly History say that Bing was America's first pop star? They admitted earlier that wuth the advent of Elvis his music was considered 'old school' and passe. The title of first American pop star should go to either Elvis or Buddy Ho9lly. Bing should be way down on the list, if he is even on it.- Hourly History usually does a better job of proofreadpmg. Dean Martin's partners name was Jerryh LEWIS, not Louis.- Hourly History failed to mention the movie 'White4 Christmas' ir the disgraceful incident where Bing refused to replay a scene for the visiting King and Queen of Jordan, opting instead to play golf.This book was a huge disappointment; it seemed to soft-pedal Bing's life, and my respect for him has gpne down markedly. Hourly History cam do better!

This biography often reads like a Freshman Composition report. It is mostly accurate but the amateurish writing gets in the way.

A free eBook. Well worth ordering. Well done Amazon!

Enjoyed reading about Bing’s earlier life and his rise to stardom. Loved his crooner voice and especially White Christmas. Interesting how he got his name.

Always good to learn a little bit more.Any easy quick read with a cup of coffee.

Another great read. I did not know very much about Bing Crosby and find that crooning era truly fascinating. White Christmas.

I like that it was a short read and enjoyable read