Actor
Kay Kyser
Born June 18, 1905 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USADied July 23, 198510 films
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!”
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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.
Filmography
10 films as actor- 1943Around the WorldKay Kyser
- 1943Swing FeverLowell Blackford
- 1943Thousands CheerKay Kyser
- 1943Stage Door CanteenKay Kyser
- 1942My Favorite SpyKay Kyser
- 1941PlaymatesKay Kyser
- 1940If I Forget YouOrchestra
- 1940Africa SqueaksCake Icer (voice)
- 1939That's Right – You're WrongKay Kyser
- 1933Invisible OpponentSir Thomas