Al Jolson Home Page|His Works|Radio|11 Nov 48 KMH with George Jessel

Al Jolson's experience with radio began in the dawn of the medium, and continued until the birth of television, and his death. He started the Kraft Music Hall, along with programs for Lifebuoy Soap, Colgate Tooth Powder, and Chevrolet, and died while waiting to go on to Bing Crosby's Chesterfield program. On this page, I will be featuring full length radio programs for your enjoyment.

This program is from the Thursday night Kraft Music Hall series starring Al Jolson, which ran from October 2, 1947, through May 26, 1949.

George Jessel and Al Jolson
George Jessel and Al Jolson

This program was originally broadcast on Thursday, November 11, 1948. Al Jolson's friend, and foil, for many years, George Jessel, joined the Music Hall this week.

Al Jolson opened the program talking about his little boy, Asa Jr., and then sang a song not recorded before, "Bright Eyes." It was a bouncy number, well suited to Jolson's style.

Oscar Levant then helped Jolie evaluate just what it took to be a success on the radio. After that, Levant returned to last week's composer, to play Rachmaninoff's Piano Varations.

Surprise! Ken Carpenter's opening commercial is not for cheese, but for savings bond. This because of the date, November 11th, the anniversary of the end of World War I. With Levant noodling on the piano, Jolson eased into a nice rendition of "Mandy" next. After a few comments about weddings, Jolson sang an old song, "I'll Get By." Closing this section, a full rendition of "I Only Have Eyes For You."

Ken Carpenter then announced the availability of real Kraft cheese wheels available locally. Yummy! The Toastmaster General of the United States, George Jessel, came on, making his own introduction in his own style - even getting in a plug for his new picture. Jolie and Jessel compared notes on their speaking engagements, along with some comments on their loves and lives. Yes, they even mentioned The Jazz Singer! And Jessel did Jolson as only Jessel could!

After another plug for real cheese, Al Jolson dug down deep for the old World War I song, "Roses of Picardy."

You see, while today we call November 11th Veteran's Day, in 1948 it was still referred to as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of the first World War. To help observe that solemn day, the program concluded with a message from the national commander of the American Legion, Perry Brown. May we never forget those who served, and died, so that we can remain free.



Listen to this radio program and watch a Video Podcast with an excerpt of the show illustrated with photos of the stars.

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     This is an 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." As always, photos add to the presentation.


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This listing and material Copyright © 1995-2024 Marc I. Leavey, M.D. Baltimore, Maryland
Updated 07 Nov 24