Kay Kyser

Known for ActingBorn 1905-06-18Died 1985-07-23Rocky 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.Read more

Movies & web series

Showbiz Goes to War

Show-Business at War

Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 1

Hedda Hopper's Hollywood No. 2

The Movie Orgy

Thousands Cheer

Invisible Opponent

Around the World

Stage Door Canteen

If I Forget You

That's Right – You're Wrong

Swing Fever

The Mike Douglas Show

Africa Squeaks

Carolina Blues

My Favorite Spy

Playmates

You'll Find Out

Television: The First Fifty Years

G.I. Journal

Screen Snapshots (Series 23, no. 3)