Retro Starlets : Al Bowlly: Inventor of Crooning

Crooner: A singer of popular ballads

Does the name Al Bowlly ring a bell? If you were to ask someone this question on the street, their answer would most likely be no. Not even my Grandfather, who has a monumental amount of knowledge, knew who Al Bowlly was. It's a sad thought, really. But never fear, I'm hear to tell you all about this lovely singer!

Al Bowlly (1898-1941)

Al Bowlly was born Albert Allick Bowlly, January 7th 1898, in Mozambique, South Africa. He first gained his musical experience singing for a dance band led by Edgar Adeler on a tour though South Africa during the mid-1920s. But alas, he was fired due to a fall out with Edgar Adeler, throwing a cushion at his head while playing piano.

In the 1930s, Bowlly signed two contracts. Throughout the next four years, he recorded over 500 songs! Some of his hits include, ""The Very Thought of You", "Goodnight, Sweetheart", and ''Guilty".

He became so popular that, he gained his own radio series on NBC! He traveled to Hollywood, in 1936, to star in the The Big Broadcast with his competitor, Bing Crosby! But, in 1938 Bowlly began to have problems with his throat and was forced to return to London. His long absence diminished his career in the UK. Still he continued to sing with orchestra's and record more songs.

On April 17th 1941, Bowlly had just given a performance with Jimmy Messene. Bowlly decided to take the last train home to his flat, at 32 Duke Street, Dukes Court, St James, London. It was a decision that proved to be fatal. He was killed by a Luftwaffe parachute mine that detonated outside his flat. He died at the age of 43.

His singing style has been described as, "a soft, more expressive crooning style". He had sincerity, good looks, charm, a beautiful voice, and a winning personality that helped boost him to stardom. He is also credited as the first, ''pop star''. He was nicknamed, ''The Big Swoon,'' and was often mobbed by female fans (who wouldn't mob him?) His voice is absolutely calming and romantic so I hope you give him a try~