Al Jolson Command Performance 13 May 1942

|His Works|Radio|13 May 42 Command Performance

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. Here is another full length radio program for your enjoyment.

Al Jolson singing to the people

At the beginning of the Second World War, Al Jolson set off to entertain troops all over the world. From his initiative, the USO was born, and countless servicemen and women were able to enjoy live talent coming to them at the front. And Jolson started it all.

In 1942, Jolson was touring for the USO, and stopped in Cleveland for this broadcast. Hosted by Marlene Dietrich, it includes some patter scripted for the soldiers, and gets about as suggestive as you could get on 1942 radio. Included in the program are Kenny Baker, Mitzi Green, and other celebrities of the day.

Appearing at the end of this 30 minute program, Al Jolson had some scripted comedy with Marlene Dietrich, and sang three of his most popular songs to his favorite audience. I will let you experience the show without telegraphing you any of the material. Suffice it to say that Jolson's songs reminisce about where he may have come from, and where he would like to be going.

About two weeks after this broadcast, Al Jolson travelled to Alaska, for a two week stint up north. After that, and with determination and drive, Jolson began touring bases world wide, beginning a pattern that would ultimately cost him his life some eight years later.

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

Click this link to listen to this week's program
		This is an excerpt of the 13 May 1942 Command Performance, USA, broadcast. While the full, 30 minute, broadcast featured a host of celebrities, including Kenny Baker, MItzi Green, and others, this tightly edited clip features a bit of Marlene Dietrich, who was the host, and one of the three songs performed by Al Jolson, "California, Here I Come." Several photos, original and composite, help to set the scene for the program.

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Updated 24 May 26