Kay Kyser
Actor
Born June 18, 1905 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USA
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!” 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
Showbiz Goes to War
(archive footage)
The Movie Orgy
Self (archive footage)
The Mike Douglas Show
Self
Carolina Blues
Himself
Around the World
Kay Kyser
Swing Fever
Lowell Blackford
Thousands Cheer
Kay Kyser
Stage Door Canteen
Kay Kyser
Show-Business at War
Self
My Favorite Spy
Kay Kyser
Playmates
Kay Kyser
Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 2
Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 1
Self
You'll Find Out
Himself
Africa Squeaks
Cake Icer (voice)
That's Right – You're Wrong
Kay Kyser
Invisible Opponent
Sir Thomas