Perry Como (born Pierino Ronald Como on May 18, 1912 – May 12, 2001) was an American singer, actor, and television personality, widely recognized for his smooth baritone voice and relaxed, easygoing style. He became one of the most popular and beloved entertainers of the 20th century, enjoying a career that spanned more than five decades. Known for his renditions of both pop and holiday music, Como left an indelible mark on American music and entertainment, becoming a household name in the mid-20th century.
Early Life:
- Birth and Family: Perry Como was born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to Italian immigrant parents, Antonio Como and Lucia Travaglini. He was the seventh of 13 children in a working-class family. His parents were from Abruzzo, Italy, and they encouraged him to pursue music. His father played the mandolin, and his mother was a seamstress who had a passion for music.
- Early Music Influence: Como showed an early interest in music, learning to play the guitar and accordion as a child. He performed at local events and was involved in his school’s music programs. His love for singing developed as he worked at a local barber shop and began singing for his customers. Como was discovered by a local radio station, which led him to pursue a career in music.
Early Career:
- First Big Break: In the late 1930s, Perry Como began his professional career as a vocalist. He first gained attention as a member of The Ted Weems Orchestra, a popular big band. His smooth, effortless voice stood out, and his first major radio appearance was with The Weems Band in 1937.
- Solo Career: In 1943, Como left the orchestra to pursue a solo career, signing with RCA Victor. His first hits began to emerge in the early 1940s, such as “I Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now” (1943), which became a popular song during World War II.
Rise to Stardom:
- “Till the End of Time”: In 1945, Perry Como achieved his first major hit with “Till the End of Time,” which was based on a theme from Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1. The song became one of his signature hits and reached number one on the charts. This success launched Como’s career to national prominence.
- Music Style: Known for his smooth and relaxed baritone voice, Como’s music style often blended pop with easy listening, making him a favorite for a broad audience. His charm, laid-back demeanor, and ability to convey emotion through his music made him one of the top entertainers of the time. His songs were often characterized by a sense of elegance and warmth.
Major Hits and Music Career:
- “Catch a Falling Star”: One of Como’s biggest hits, “Catch a Falling Star” (1957), became a signature song and earned him a Grammy Award. It was a huge commercial success, reaching number one on the charts and becoming a timeless classic.
- Holiday Music: Perry Como’s contributions to Christmas music are legendary. His Christmas specials and Christmas albums, especially “Perry Como’s Christmas Album” (1946) and “Perry Como Sings Merry Christmas Music” (1956), have remained favorites for generations. His rendition of “Ave Maria” and songs like “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” have become staples during the holiday season.
- “Papa Loves Mambo”: Another one of Como’s hits, “Papa Loves Mambo” (1954), marked a fun, uptempo departure from his usual smooth ballads, showing his versatility as an artist. The song’s catchy melody made it another standout in his catalog.
Television Career:
- The Perry Como Show: Como’s charm extended to the small screen. He became one of the first major stars to transition from radio to television, hosting “The Perry Como Show” from 1948 to 1963. The show was a huge success, making Como a beloved figure in millions of American homes. It was known for its relaxed format and musical performances, which made it more akin to a variety show than a traditional talk show. Como’s gentle demeanor and easygoing style endeared him to audiences.
- Christmas Specials: Perry Como’s Christmas specials became a tradition for many families, with “Perry Como’s Christmas in New York” and others airing annually throughout the 1950s and 1960s. His calm, warm presence made these specials a holiday favorite.
- Awards and Recognition: Como was recognized for his outstanding contributions to television, winning multiple Emmy Awards for his work on television. He also earned several Golden Globe Awards.
Personal Life:
- Marriage and Family: Perry Como married Rosalie “Roz” Sullivan in 1933, and the couple had three children together. Their marriage was widely regarded as stable and loving, and they remained together until Roz’s death in 1998. Como’s family was important to him, and he often kept his personal life private.
- Temperament and Personality: Known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, Como was beloved not only for his music but also for his kindness and generosity. He was famously modest, often shying away from the spotlight in comparison to some of his contemporaries, despite his incredible success.
Later Career and Legacy:
- Retirement from Public Life: Perry Como slowly retired from public life in the 1970s, though he continued to occasionally record music and perform for special occasions. Despite a relatively low profile in the later part of his career, his music and influence endured.
- Awards and Honors: Como received numerous honors throughout his career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002, which was presented posthumously after his death. He was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his contributions to American culture.
- Death: Perry Como passed away on May 12, 2001, at the age of 88, just six days shy of his 89th birthday. His death marked the end of an era in American music and television, but his influence continued to resonate with fans worldwide.
Legacy:
Perry Como is remembered as one of the most beloved and influential entertainers of the 20th century. His smooth voice, charismatic presence, and timeless songs have made him a cherished figure in American entertainment. He is credited with helping to define the easy-listening genre and is remembered for songs like “Catch a Falling Star,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and “Magic Moments.” His television specials, Christmas music, and enduring voice continue to bring joy to audiences, even long after his passing.
Fun Facts:
- Smooth Style: Perry Como’s singing style was often referred to as “smooth,” and he had a unique ability to blend pop, jazz, and light opera elements in his music.
- Fashion and Influence: Como was known for his sharp, sophisticated style and was often considered one of the best-dressed men of his era. He was a fashion icon for many.
- Influence on Other Artists: Como’s voice and style influenced many artists, including Bing Crosby and Tony Bennett, and he remains an icon of mid-20th-century American entertainment.
Perry Como’s legacy continues to endure in the world of music, television, and pop culture. His gentle spirit, unparalleled voice, and influence on Christmas music make him a figure that will be remembered for generations.
