Kate Smith-The First Lady of Radio

Many entertainers popular during the war years just happened to be born in May including Kate Smith, Bing Crosby, Irving Berlin, John Wayne and Bob Hope. They provided uplifting entertainment to the troops with their U.S.O. productions and radio shows often broadcasted via shortwave to remote locations.

Kate Smith known as The First Lady of Radio was one of the most popular singers of her time and recorded 3000 songs, more than any other performer. Born on May 1, 1909, she is best known for God Bless America written for her by Irving Berlin. It soon became the unofficial national anthem after she first sang it on her show in November 1938. Other songs she recorded were When the Moon Comes Over the Mountain, The Last Time I Saw Paris and On Top of Ole Smokey just to name a few. These and more are now available on You Tube. She had amazing success as the host on both radio and television variety shows. What’s remarkable is that she never had a formal singing lesson but her music touched and inspired many generations.