George Jessel and Al Jolson |
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.
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this week's program | ||
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. |
Updated 07 Nov 24 |