Crosby, Bing (1903-1977), was a popular American singer and motion-picture star. He became especially well known for his relaxed “crooning” style of singing. Crosby made about 60 movies, most of which were musicals and romantic comedies. He introduced his most famous song “White Christmas” in the movie Holiday Inn (1942). Crosby won an Academy Award in 1944 for his performance as a singing priest in Going My Way. He was nominated for Academy Awards for his performances in The Bells of St. Mary’s (1945) and The Country Girl (1954). He also co-starred with Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour in Road to Singapore (1940) and six later “Road” comedies.
Crosby was born on May 3,1903, in Tacoma, Washington. His real name was Harry Lillis Crosby. He started his career in 1924 singing with a Los Angeles band. From about 1927 to 1930, he sang with a trio called the Rhythm Boys. Film and radio appearances and phonograph records made Crosby nationally famous in the 1930’s. Crosby was married to actress Dixie Lee from 1930 until her death in 1952. They had four sons. In 1957, Crosby married actress Kathryn Grant. They had two sons and a daughter. Crosby wrote an autobiography, Call Me Lucky (1953). Bob Crosby, his brother, was a popular bandleader during the 1930’s and 1940’s. Bing Crosby died on Oct. 14, 1977.
