Kay Kyser - Overview

Register to mark this movie seen or favorite and personalize your experience

Register Log in
Overview Cast Crew
Kay Kyser
Date of birth
18 Jun 1905
122 years ago at Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USA

Also Known As

  • James King Kern Kyser
  • The Ol' Perfessor
  • James Kern Kyser

Kay Kyser

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!”

Biography

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.

Close ✕
Join Discord Discord logo
Follow on X X logo

Ask about this person

Your message will be added to the thread with this reference.