Hit Of The Evening 48-07-10 Ep001 First Electronic Harmonica

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio - "Hit Of The Evening 48-07-10 Ep001 First Electronic Harmonica"

Release Date: April 4, 2025
Host: Jim Backus
Episode Title: Hit Of The Evening 48-07-10 Ep001 First Electronic Harmonica

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Introduction to "Hit of the Evening"

In this inaugural episode of "Hit of the Evening," hosted by Jim Backus, listeners are introduced to a novel talent competition that emphasizes audience participation in selecting the evening's standout performer. The show uniquely empowers the radio audience to serve as judges, providing real-time feedback and decisions on the contestants' performances.

Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "Welcome to the Hit of the Evening, a new program that offers talented people a chance to be heard by the radio audience and for the first time, a chance to be judged by the radio audience."
[00:07]

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Contestant 1: Les Thompson and the Electric Harmonica

Introduction and Background: Les Thompson takes the stage as the first contestant, introducing himself as the pioneer behind the "electric harmonica." His innovative creation stems from his experiences in the army, where he performed at camps and hospitals lacking public address systems. To ensure his audience could hear him, Les ingeniously invented an electric amplifier for his harmonica.

Notable Quote:

Les Thompson: "I used to play a regular harmonica, but when I was in the army, I did lots of shows at camps and hospitals... I invented the electric amplifier so all the boys could hear me."
[07:14]

Performance and Encore: Les performs a rendition of "Stardust," showcasing the unique sound of his electric harmonica. The host explains the structure of the competition: Les earns $50 for his sample performance and has the opportunity to perform an encore at $100 per minute, subject to the listeners' approval.

Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "If the majority of our listener judges like your sample, you'll stay right on mic for an encore and will pay you at the rate of $100 a minute."
[09:50]

Judges' Decision: After Les's performance, the listener judges deliberated and decided against an encore, concluding that while Les's invention was impressive, it did not warrant additional performance time.

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Contestant 2: Vicki Palmer, Vocalist

Introduction and Background: Vicki Palmer, hailing from Richmond, Virginia, steps in as the second contestant. She shares her background as a singer who performed at the New York port of embarkation, serenading sailors as they departed, hoping her voice would encourage their safe return.

Notable Quote:

Vicki Palmer: "I was stationed at the New York port of embarkation. And as the boys sailed away, I'd stand on the dock and sing to them."
[15:58]

Performance and Encore: Vicki delivers a heartfelt performance of "I Cover the Waterfront," captivating the audience with her emotive vocals. Impressed by her rendition, the listener judges grant her an encore, allowing her to perform for an additional three minutes at $100 per minute.

Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "That was really wonderful. Sad, you know, but that was really... something extra special."
[22:18]

Outcome: Vicki earns $350 from her combined sample and encore performances, positioning herself as a strong contender for the evening's top honor.

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Contestant 3: Charles Wesley, Multi-Instrumentalist

Introduction and Background: Charles Wesley introduces himself as "the man who plays a tune on anything that makes a noise," highlighting his versatility in turning everyday objects into musical instruments. Drawing from his vaudeville experience, Charles demonstrates creativity and humor in his performances.

Notable Quote:

Charles Wesley: "If you see me in vaudeville, I was built that way for years. All I need is a couple clubs and a rock, and I can get a tune out of anything I happen to strike."
[18:30]

Performance and Encore: Utilizing unconventional instruments like the musical saw, flower pots, and a tire pump, Charles delivers a quirky and entertaining performance. However, the listener judges ultimately decide against granting him an encore, appreciating his ingenuity but opting to conserve their votes for other contestants.

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Contestant 4: Devon Pershing, Young Piano Virtuoso

Introduction and Background: The episode features Devon Pershing, a remarkable 12-year-old piano prodigy from Hollywood. Devon's exceptional talent and early start in music set him apart as a standout contestant, despite Jim Backus's initial skepticism about his age and maturity.

Notable Quote:

Devon Pershing: "I cover the waterfront in search of my love, and I'm covered by a starless sky above."
[19:20]

Performance and Encore: Devon performs "Hindustan," a complex and captivating piano piece that impresses both the audience and the listener judges. His performance earns him an encore, further solidifying his position in the competition.

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Selection of the Hit of the Evening

Decision Process: As the show progresses, listener judges J.W. Spencer, Mrs. Jean Dorsey, and Harry Saz deliberate on the performances. After considering the talents and impacts of Les Thompson, Vicki Palmer, and Devon Pershing, they reach a unanimous decision.

Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "Our listener judges have selected the decision of our three listener judges. Select the hit of the evening. Devon Pershing."
[25:40]

Outcome: Devon Pershing is crowned the "Hit of the Evening," earning a doubled total of $700 for his exceptional performances. This accolade not only recognizes his technical skill but also his ability to connect emotionally with the audience.

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Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Jim Backus wraps up the episode by thanking all the contestants and listener judges. He highlights the rewards extended to the judges, including prizes like a Filco Radio phonograph, wristwatch, nylon hose, Coca Cola supply, and a Wilson Tendermade ham. Additionally, listeners are encouraged to participate in future episodes by becoming listener judges themselves, adding an interactive element to the show.

Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "You can be a listener judge and select the hit of the evening. It's easy. Just write a letter to your local ABC station stating why you would like to be a listener judge."
[29:50]

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Final Remarks

"Hit of the Evening" successfully combines entertainment with audience participation, fostering a sense of community and investment among listeners. The diverse range of talents showcased—from innovative musical instruments to youthful prodigies—underscores the show's commitment to celebrating creativity and skill.

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Key Takeaways:

• Innovative Talent: Les Thompson's electric harmonica highlights the innovative spirit encouraged by the show.
• Emotive Performance: Vicki Palmer's heartfelt songs demonstrate the emotional depth that resonates with audiences.
• Versatility in Music: Charles Wesley's use of unconventional instruments showcases the limitless possibilities in musical expression.
• Youthful Genius: Devon Pershing exemplifies exceptional talent and potential, earning him the evening's top honor.

Final Notable Quote:

Jim Backus: "You're really a wonderful guy and a swell little fellow and you really. I really enjoy it."
[26:50]

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This episode sets a high standard for future installments, promising engaging performances and meaningful audience involvement. Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next episode, where new talents will vie for the coveted title of "Hit of the Evening."

Transcript

[Jim Backus]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Styles MacKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com fierce this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior. Wayfair, Every style, Every home. Calling J.W. spencer in Cleveland, Ohio. Calling Mrs. Jean Dorsey in Denver, Colorado. Calling Harry Saz in Redding, California. We're calling you to select our hit of the evening. Welcome to the Hit of the Evening, a new program that offers talented people a chance to be heard by the radio audience and for the first time, a chance to be judged by the radio audience. Yes, right at this very moment, three average listeners are sitting at their telephones in their own homes, listening to their radios, waiting to decide the hit of the evening. And now, here's that young man who likes to give people a hand and loves to give on himself that hit of any evening, Jim Baxters. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. You know, it's a pleasure to be standing here on a platform in front of 300 people with nobody nominating a president. And, you know, on this program, I give the contestants prizes. You know, everybody gets rich. That's the way radio is now. Prizes. I know a girl who got a mink coat on a quiz show just for saying yes. And I do know. I really do know a couple that they met on a show. They fell in love on a show, they got married on the show, and the program gave them a honeymoon, a house, a refrigerator, a washing machine, a stove. Next week they're coming back for the kids. No, but it's really, really, really pretty bad. It's gotten so now even the refrigerators are having a quiz show. They're giving away people O, G E. But, ladies and gentlemen, this is a talent show. And our judges are members of the radio audience. Hey, Tim, I just got the signal that the operators have connected all three listeners, judges with the telephones here on the stage. Oh, that's wonderful. All connected up, eh? Hi, you judges out there in Denver, Cleveland and Reading. Glad you're with us. Now get relaxed, get comfortable and get set to listen, because here comes our first hit of the evening. Jet. That's right, Jim. And here he is. It's Les Thompson. Hello, Les. How do you like being the number one spot in our brand New show. I like it fine, Jim. Means I get first crack at those gibber. Oh, you're a manly follow. Yes, but there's. Their radios are tuned to this program. Their phones are connected to the station. And now what are you going to do for them? Play my electric harmonica. Oh, play an electric harmonica. An electric harmonica. Well, you know. Were you playing this electric harmonica, were you playing yesterday around 4:00? Yes. Yes, I was. You were? Well, then, that explained it. You see, yesterday I went into the bathroom, I turned on the light and got four choruses of youf Can't Be True, Dear. But this whole conversation about the electrica is very shocking, you know. Let's hear a little more about you, eh, Mr. Thompson? Jim, I'm married and have one child. I see a short circuit. But tell me how this electric harmonica came about. The actual creation of this harmonica, Jim. I used to play a regular harmonica, but when I was in the army, I did lots of shows at camps and hospitals. I see. Many of those places didn't have public address systems. Yeah. So I invented the electric amplifier so all the boys could hear me. Well, that's. That's really. That's marvelous. Are you ready, Mr. Thompson? Yes. Well, all right. Now we have three listener judges waiting at their phones in Cleveland, Ohio, Denver, Colorado and Reading, California, to hear a sample of your talent. And for that sample, we're going to pay you $50. How's that, lass? Great. Oh, great. But that's not all. No. If the majority of our listener judges like your sample, you'll stay right on mic for an encore and will pay you at the rate of $100aminute. Wow, $100aminute. I'll play all day. Well, I know. And don't forget, Les, our listener judges have the final say. If at any time during your encore they feel that they've heard enough, they can stop you short of the three minute maximum. In that case, you'll still collect what you've earned at $100aminute and you'll still be eligible for the grand prize hit of the evening. Now, you know what it means to be picked hit of the evening? No. Well, I'm glad you answered that way. But it means you'd have no show if you. But it means. It means that all the money you've earned for your sample and your encore will be doubled. How is that? Solid Jackson. Can I play now? Well, read and avoot. And avoot a Rini. Ladies and gentlemen, here is Les Thompson with a sample of his artistry on the only electric harmonica in the world. Les, if you it. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you, Les Thompson. And last, last day, right there at the mic while I, while I, I talk on the phone to our listener judges. Here's the first one. Hello there, listener Judge J.W. spencer in Cleveland, Ohio. Are you there? Yeah. Are you all set with your big decision? Uh huh. Well, you must be pretty excited about this. You know, you're the first listener judge we're calling on. How did you like Les Thompson, the electric harmonica? He blew out a fuse, huh? Well, Mr. You know, you're the. This program is the first that has ever given the listener at home the opportunity of being the sole and final judge of his 12 talent. Well, you've heard Les Thompson's electric harmonica and Les is waiting to hear whether you listener judges want to hear an encore. So Mr. Spencer, what is your decision? Uh huh. All right, that's what you've decided. Thank you. And listen, stay right there, don't go away. And I'll talk to our next listener judge. Hello? Hello, Les. Listener judge Harry Szasz in Redding, California. Right. Well, we've had a decision from our first judge. Now what do you say? Well, your, your decision on whether or not Les Thompson plays a $100aminute encore in his electric harmonica. What's that now? That's, that's what you've decided. Well, thank you. Now don't go away. You keep listening to your radio while I talk it over with a third listener judge and get her decision. Oh, we have a woman. Yes sir. Hello, hello, hello. Mrs. Jean Dorsey up there a mile high in beautiful Denver, Colorado. Hello. Hello. Well, we sort of switch things around and call on our female listener judge last. You know, usually a woman first, but you won't mind, will you, Mrs. Dorsey? Oh, you won't? Well, we've already had two decisions on Les Thompson's encore. So what's yours? No, I'm sorry, I can't tell you what the other two listener judges decided. Just like a woman, huh? No, I can't. No, you have to make your own decision. All right, Les Thompson is waiting. What do you say, huh? Uh huh. Well that's your decision. Okay, it stands. And you stand by while I break the news to Les Thompson. Well, Les, I talked to our three listener judges and they decided they want an encore. Well, you're way. Well on your way, Les. What are you going to play, Jim? I'd like to do one of my favorites, a tune called Stardust. Oh, somehow I knew. Isn't that just me? Wonderful. He said Stardust. Good. Remember, lads, we pay you $100aminute for three minutes unless our listener judges stop you. Now, they're at their radios. I'm here at the telephones and you're over there. So, Les Thompson, you're on call, if you please it. Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse. With family. Cannolis and spins mean everything. Now you want to get mixed up in the family business. Introducing the [e-mail] test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather slots. Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me. Play the Godfather now at Champacasin. God. Welcome to the family. No purchase necessary. VGW Group void where prohibited by law 21/ Terms and Conditions apply.

[Vicki Palmer]

It.

[Jim Backus]

That was. That was wonderful, wonderful, Les Thompson. It really was. That was really swell. You must have a friend. But that was really wonderful. That was a full 3 minute encore and you've made $300 for it, plus $50 for your sample. Making $350 all told, and will be doubled if our listener judges select you as a hit of the evening later on, making $700 in all. Is that all right? Thanks a lot. Well, stand by. Stand by. Last time, Jim. Meet the next hit of the evening guest Vicki Palmer from Richmond, Virginia. Ms. Vicki Palmer. Richmond, Virginia? That's from the South. Well, how y'all, Ms. Palmer, are you all.

[Vicki Palmer]

I'm fine. Honey child. Sugar pie.

[Jim Backus]

Well, bowl my weevil, you got better lines than Mason and Dixon. You got better lines than I have. I know that.

[Vicki Palmer]

Oh, they really don't talk that way in Richmond, huh? It's not the Deep South. It's only a stone's throw from Washington.

[Jim Backus]

Well, in Washington, they're really throwing stones, too. Everybody down there is getting their lumps. But, you know, it's going on all over the world. Ms. Palmer, I really mean it. Look at the international situation in Yugoslavia. Now. You take poor Tito. All he can do now is play as Gazar. After that joke, I think I'll go out and have a Nino Martini. But let's resume with this interview, shall we, Ms. Farmers?

[Vicki Palmer]

I'm ready.

[Jim Backus]

Well, you're ready. Say, I'm ready, too. You know, that's a very lovely dress you're wearing.

[Vicki Palmer]

Oh, do you like it? Yeah, it's the latest thing they're showing on the East Coast.

[Jim Backus]

Well, it's showing a lot on the west coast, too.

[Vicki Palmer]

Well, I'm glad you like it because, you know, I haven't worn a dress for the past three years.

[Jim Backus]

Please, Ms. Powell, we're on the radar. You know, you can't.

[Vicki Palmer]

No, no, no, Jim, it's not what you're thinking. You see, for the past three years, I've been a whack.

[Jim Backus]

I've been one for years. Well, as a matter of fact, I know I'm going to hate myself in the morning for saying this, but I. I always knew I would find a little honey among the wax. No, you see. No, wait a minute. Wait a minute. You see, honey. Honey comes in the comb, and the comb is made out of wax. And I thought if I twisted the two around and made a joke, it would be hilariously funny. Now I wish I were dead. No kidding. But that's what is known as a topical joke. But getting back to business at hand, as I understand it, you're a singer. Did you sing in the service, Ms. Palmer?

[Vicki Palmer]

Yes, I was stationed at the New York port of embarkation. And as the boys sailed away, I'd stand on the dock and sing to them.

[Jim Backus]

Well, Ms. Palmer, I know that would make them want to come back very much sooner.

[Vicki Palmer]

That's very nice of you, Jim, but after all, you never heard me sing.

[Jim Backus]

Well, I don't have to, Ms. Palmer. I know that you have a lovely voice.

[Vicki Palmer]

What makes you think so?

[Jim Backus]

Look where it comes from.

[Vicki Palmer]

A dicky bird whispered haven't you heard? Spring is here, Spring is here Spring is here A little crow sang a happy hello My favorite time of the year. A little frog sang a song on his log Lose your blues, Lose your blues Lose your blues and you and I fell in love and replied dickey bird. Ooh. If you have to look around to find a reason for such a wonderful thing, you can blame it on the sentimental season. Falling in love is done in the spring. The bobolink looked at us with a wink and a boy at a girl Nothing's wrong when you're in love. You go swinging along a singing the dicky bird. So.

[Jim Backus]

Thank you. Thank you very much, Ms. Vicki Palmer. Now, you stay right there at the mic while I talk to our listener judges. You know, this is more fun talking to these people without having to pay the bill. It's great to live. Hello, Mr. J.W. spencer in Cleveland. You're hearing the on your ABC station, WJW, right, huh? Well, now, that was Ms. Vicki Palmer. Very lovely girl. Mr. Spencer, too bad you can't be here. But what do you. What did you. Well, what Is your decision. Oh, a dream, believe me. Oh, Mr. Spencer, you have. No, no, look, what is your decision? You would. Well, all right. That's your decision. Okay. Hello, Mr. Harry Szazz in Reading, California. Well, where you are, huh? Oh, I was. Gee, and how many miles are you away? Oh, yeah, well, that. That is your decision, huh? Have you made it? Yeah. Okay, thank you. Mr. Harry says now we come to Ms. Jean Dorsey in Denver, Colorado, who's hearing on a station, KVOD out in Denver. Oh, way up in those mountains. Hello? Hello? Yeah, Yeah. I can't tell you, Mrs. Dorsey, what they say. You're going to have to make up your own mind. I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll call you first next time. How is that, huh? Now look, huh? Yeah, well, I can't tell you really, believe me. What? You have to make up your mind, mister. Oh, well, that's very, very. That's your decision. All right. Ms. Mrs. Darcy. Huh? Well, Ms. Palmer, our listener judge, I talked to all three of them and they want an encore. You're on your way, Vicki. What are you going to sing?

[Vicki Palmer]

I'm going to sing a favorite song of mine, I Cover the Waterfront.

[Jim Backus]

Well, good. Remember now that we pay you $100aminute for three minutes unless our listener judges stop you there at their radios. I'm here at the telephone. So, Ms. Palmer, if you please. You're on car. Go ahead.

[Vicki Palmer]

I cover the waterfront I'm watching the sea Will the one I love becoming back to me I cover the waterfront in search of my love and I'm covered by a starless sky above I patiently waiting hoping and longing oh, how are you? Where are.

[Jim Backus]

Hello, it is Ryan. And we could all use an extra bright spot in our day, couldn't we? Just to make up for things like sitting in traffic, doing the dishes, counting your steps. You know, all the mundane stuff. That is why I'm such a big fan of Chumba Casino. Chumba Casino has all your favorite social casino style games that you can play for free anytime, anywhere with daily bonuses that should brighten your day a little. Actually, a lot. So sign up [e-mail]. that's chumbacasino.com no purchase necessary. VGW prohibited by law. See terms and conditions 18+.

[Vicki Palmer]

Are you forgetting? Do you remember? Will you return? I cover the water from I'm watching the sea for the one I love must soon come back to me.

[Jim Backus]

Here.

[Vicki Palmer]

Am I Patiently waiting Hoping and longing oh, how are you? Where are you? Are you forgetting? Do you remember, Will? Remember? I cover the waterfront I'm watching the sea for the one I love most soon comes back to me.

[Jim Backus]

That's really wonderful. Sad, you know, but that was really. That was something extra special. That was a full three minute encore and that wins you $300. And the $50 for your sample makes, let me see, $350. And it will be doubled if our listener judges select you as the hit of the evening later on. So stand by Ms. Vicky Palmer. Thank you. Hey, Jim. Jim. Here's our third hit of the evening guest. He's known as the man who plays a tune on anything that makes a noise, Mr. Charles Wesley. Yes, well, well, welcome. Welcome to the hit of the evening, Mr. Wesley. Thank you, Mr. Bacus. Thank you very much. What's this business of your. Your being the man who plays a tune on anything that makes a noise? Well, that's true. Now, if you see me in vaudeville, I was built that way for years. Yeah. And all I need is a couple clubs and a rock and I can get a tune out of anything I happen to strike. You play, you just hit something on anything that. That makes a noise. See, I got a mother in law maybe with a, with a hammer. No, no, I'm just. It wouldn't work. You think it would. Maybe a stone. But what are, what are some of the instruments that you. That you handle? Well, the carpenter saw or so called musical saw. Yeah. Well, that could be good for the trail of a lonesome pine. Musical flower pot. What is that? Musical flower pot. Well, that would be a natural for love in bloom, I think. And the tire pump, well, that would be perfect for my Mary Oldsmobile. And also four flats, you know, really nothing. What is that? Also a toy rubber balloon. A balloon? Yeah. Well, blow. No, no, no, no. I mean come back here. Blow the balloon. But now stand by judges for Mr. Charles Wesley playing. Let me call you sweetheart on the musical saw, the balloon and the tire pump. I said it, but somehow I just can' the balloon won't be doing that. Could be a bus. The tire pump. The tire pump is a time that was. Well, Mr. Wesley, you stay by the mic and I'll talk to our listener judges here. The person. Mr. Spencer. Huh? Well, yeah, well, no, I'm sorry he can't come over and help you build the house. He doesn't. Yeah. What, what do you say? What is your. Yeah, well, that is your decision. Okay. Thank you, Mr. Spencer. Now, Mr. No, I forgot. I was going to call Ms. Darcy first. Ms. Jean Dorsey in Denver. Colorado. Hello, hello, hello, Ms. Dorsey. Yeah, yeah, yeah. You're baking a cake and it dropped. Yeah, well, no, I can't tell you though. But you were second. That's. What is your decision finally. Yeah. All right, Ms. Darcy. Huh? Hello. Hello. And the last judge is Mr. Harry Szaz of Redding, California. Uh huh. Yeah. That's what you says Mr. Harry says, huh huh. Well, yeah, I see. Huh huh. The tire pump. That's your decision. Okay. Well, I'm sorry, Mr. Wesley. It seems the majority of our listener judges have decided against an encore. They thought they loved you, but they couldn't see you. But here's $50 in payment for your sample, Mr. Wesley, thank you very much and lots of luck to you. Jim. Meet the next next hit of the evening guest, 12 year old piano virtuoso, Devon Perzee. Oh, oh, Hello, Devon. Hello, Mr. Backus. Devon, didn't I see that name on the, on the billboard of some theater? Yes, sir, the Al Capitan. Yeah, well, I know where that is, Devon. That's on Hollywood and Divine. I made that one up in a minute. Of course it takes a chicken a whole day, you know. But Devon, you're a, you're a husky boy. Wouldn't you rather be out playing baseball and playing the piano? Huh? Oh, but Mr. Backus, the piano is a happy wedding of the physical and the mental combined with the spiritual incidents of the human psyche producing ethereal fulfillment. Oh, stop talking like a child. How old are you? I'm 12 years old. Gee, that's funny. When I was your age, I was 32. But, but seriously, you know, I did. I saw Devon play at the Blackouts at the El Capitan Theater here in Hollywood. And it's amazing. It really was. Say you must. Devon, you must have started to study when you were about three, two and a half. Yeah, well, I guess it's in the family. What does your father do? He's a dentist. Yes, I see. Well, he drills the ivories and you tickle them, huh? What are you going to play, Devon? Hindustan? Uhhuh. Well, you go right over there at the piano. Ladies and gentlemen, we were just having a lot of fun with Devoni. Not only is this boy talented, but he's a regular guy. He, he, that's. We made that up. He doesn't eat at zeros, eats at Romanovs, I don't know. But. Ready? Ready. Devon, go ahead and play. All right. That was, that was 12. Devon, you stay right there at that piano while I talk to our three listener judges. Mrs. Jean Dorsey. How? You're not crossing me up. What is your decision? You're in Denver, aren't you? You're still there, huh? Oh, I see. Okay, that's your decision. Hello there. Mr. Harry says in red. He's great. Well. Oh, I put my. What? What did you say? What? What? What did you. Oh, oh, I say. All right, I'll do it the hard way. No hands. Hello, Mr. Spencer in. In Cleveland. I know they beat Philadelphia. All right, what about the. The Devon Pershing, the 12 year old boy? Yeah, yeah. What do you mean he had a helper? No, no, it's not a small Harry Truman, believe me. No. What is your decision? Decision. Oh, I see. Then they, they made the decision. And Devon. And on card is, if you please, Devon Pershing, go on with your $100 minute encore, if you please. Bravo. Thank you very much. Devon Pershing, that was really something. And for your 3 minute encore has earned you $300 plus $50 for the sample, giving you $350 so far, which is not 10, but you're also eligible to be selected as the hit of the evening, which will double your earnings. And now who's our next guest? Well, I'm sorry, Jim, but we won't be able to hear anymore tonight. Those who didn't get their chance tonight will be back next week. But right now it's time for our three listener judges to select the hit of the evening. Well, all right. Our listener judges have asked for encores from our electric harmonica player, Les Thompson, singer Vicky Palmer, and young pianist Devon Pershing. Remember, it means double the money earned for the one selected as hit of the evening. So hold your breath, keep your fingers crossed while I talk to our listener judges. Hello, we got the phone here. Hello there, J.W. spencer, our listener judge out in Cleveland, Ohio. Whom do you choose as the hit of the evening? All right, thank you. Uh huh. And incidentally, stay right by your radio. Don't go away mad. Now, the second phone, our listener judge. No, I'm gonna. Mr. Mr. Harry says in Reading. Yeah, huh, I see. All right, all right, thank you. Thank you very much. It's up to her. Mrs. Jean Dorsey. Yeah. You can't vote for all three. I can't tell you that. Mrs. Dorsey, what is your final, final decision? All right, thank you. Thank you, Mrs. Dorsey. And keep listening to your radio. There we are. Let's see, we have the three judges, they have selected the decision of our three listener judges. Select the hit of the evening. Devon Pershing. Thank you. Weldevon. Here is Gee. $700. I hate to give it to you. What are you gonna do with all that money? 700 bucks. Huh? I'm gonna try to buy Steinway. Gonna buy a Steinway? Uh huh. Well, I. I thought maybe you and I might. Might go out later on. Huh. What do you think? Well, I don't know. I could get you a date with Margaret O'Brien, you know, you could get me Marjorie Maine. I don't know. But anyhow, Devon, thank you. You're really a wonderful guy and a swell little fellow and you really. I really enjoy it. Thank you very much. And now our sincerest thanks go to all our guests of this evening. You were really swell and wish you the best of luck in the future and our gratitude, believe me. And a special vote of thanks to our three listener judges for their careful and honest decision. And as a token of our appreciation, we are sending to J.W. spencer of Cleveland, Ohio, Mrs. Jean Dorsey of Denver, and Harry Szasz of Redding, California. Filco Radio phonograph combination with 25 selected recordings, a 17 jewel wristwatch, six dozen pairs of nylon hose for Harry says Mrs. Dorsey could use that, a year's supply of Coca Cola and a 20 pound Wilson Tendermade ham. Not me. That's not me. But those items will be on their way to each of tonight's listener judges in the morning. Well, I guess that kind of winds things up for the hit of the evening this evening. And this is Jim back of saying so long and be with us again next week. Thank you very much. You can be a listener judge and select the hit of the evening. It's easy. Just write a letter to your local ABC station stating why you would like to be a listener judge. It doesn't have to be a long or fancy letter. Merely give your reasons and who knows? Your name may be read next week when we call our listener judges to get ready to select the hit of the evening. Remember, you may be one of them. So be at your radios because you may be called next week to act as listener judges and win the hit of the evening prizes. Good night all. Hit of the evening, the bright Krupa production. The music was under the direction of Buzz Adlam. Jim Backus may soon be seen in the RKO production Interference. Owen James, spe. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company. Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse with family. Cannolis and spins mean everything. Now you want to get mixed up in the family business. Introducing the [e-mail] test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather slots. Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me. Play the Godfather [e-mail]. welcome to the family. No purchase necessary. VGW Group void. 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