Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: Kate Smith Hour 43-02-12
Guest: Henny Youngman
Special Performance: Leonard Sues plays "Steam on the Beam"
Release Date: January 14, 2025

Introduction

In this nostalgic episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with the Kate Smith Hour. Hosted by Ted Collins and featuring the beloved singer Kate Smith, this episode is a delightful blend of music, humor, and camaraderie, perfectly capturing the spirit of a bygone era when families gathered around the radio to enjoy entertaining programs.

Program Opening

The episode begins with Ted Collins welcoming the audience to the Kate Smith Hour, broadcasted from Atlanta, Atlantic City, specifically catering to the servicemen of the Army Air Force's Technical Training Command. Collins emphasizes the program's reach, intended to provide comfort and entertainment to troops both domestically and overseas.

Quote:
"Good evening. This is Ted Collins welcoming you to the Kate Smith Hour, brought to you tonight from Atlanta, Atlantic City..." [00:57]

Musical Interlude: "Fine and Dandy"

Kate Smith opens the show with a heartfelt rendition of "Fine and Dandy," setting a warm and inviting tone. Her performance is interspersed with playful interactions between her and a soldier, adding a touch of humor to the musical piece.

Quote:
"Hi, you fellas. Well, let's take off, Ted." [01:33]
"When you're gone what can I do? I get lonesome I get so blue..." [02:13]

Comedy Skit: Medical Corps Officer and Ted Collins

A comedic exchange unfolds between Ted Collins and a Medical Corps Officer, highlighting the typical radio humor of the era. The skit revolves around a series of "magical" pills that provide relief but come with amusing side effects, such as hair falling out and teeth turning black.

Quote:
Medical Corps Officer: "Well, it's a good thing they told me. I have just the thing here for you. Here, you just take these three pills." [03:53]
Ted Collins: "My hair will fall out?" [04:29]

Musical Performance: "I Got a Gal in Kalamazoo"

Kate Smith transitions into the lively and upbeat song "I Got a Gal in Kalamazoo," encouraging listeners to tap their feet and sing along. The performance exudes joy and showcases Smith's exceptional vocal talent.

Quote:
"K A L A M A Z O O what a gal in Kalamazoo..." [05:27]

Stand-Up Comedy: Penny Young

Penny Young takes the stage, delivering a series of humorous anecdotes and jokes that resonate with the servicemen. Her routine covers a range of topics from military life to personal stories, providing much-needed laughter and levity.

Quote:
"I want to tell you boys, I have some good news for you. The war is as good as over..." [07:51]
"You know, Missy Jackson..." [07:12]

Introduction of Leonard Sues and "Steam on the Beam"

The episode features a special performance by Leonard Sues, a talented young trumpet player. Sues captivates the audience with his rendition of "Steam on the Beam," adding a musical diversity to the program.

Quote:
Ted Collins: "Now we'd like you to meet once more one of the finest young trumpet players in the country, Leonard Seuss, playing the number he made famous, Steam on the Beat." [19:00]

Colonel Robert P. Glassburn's Address

Colonel Robert P. Glassburn, commander of the Atlantic City Basic Training Center Technical Training Command, addresses the audience, expressing gratitude for Kate Smith's contributions to American entertainment and the morale of the troops. He presents Smith with an inscribed trophy, symbolizing appreciation and encouragement.

Quote:
Colonel Glassburn: "You, Ms. Smith, represent a wholesome endeavor in the world of American entertainment..." [22:48]

Dedication: "The Song of the Bombardier"

Kate Smith and the chorus dedicate a spirited song titled "The Song of the Bombardier" to honor the men of the Army Air Forces. The song celebrates their dedication and readiness, serving as a rousing tribute to the servicemen's efforts.

Quote:
"Roar away with the bombardier Rack up the eggs Line up the golden goose..." [24:48]

Closing Remarks

Ted Collins wraps up the program by acknowledging the contributions of all participants and reinforcing the camaraderie between the entertainers and the troops. The episode concludes with a reminder of the show's purpose: to provide entertainment and support to those serving in the military.

Quote:
Ted Collins: "You have just heard a delayed broadcast scheduled expressly at this time for the armed forces of the United nations..." [29:40]

Notable Highlights

• Humorous Interactions: The skits involving Ted Collins and the Medical Corps Officer, as well as Penny Young's stand-up routine, provide a hearty dose of humor, characteristic of old-time radio shows.

• Heartfelt Music: Kate Smith's performances are both uplifting and soothing, offering moments of reflection and joy to listeners.

• Tributes to Servicemen: The show's dedication to the servicemen, through songs and addresses by military officials, underscores the strong connection between entertainment and military morale during the era.

• Special Guests: Leonard Sues' trumpet performance adds a unique musical dimension, while Colonel Glassburn's visit bridges the gap between the military and the entertainment industry.

Conclusion

This episode of the Kate Smith Hour is a quintessential representation of mid-20th-century radio programming. Through a harmonious blend of music, comedy, and heartfelt tributes, the show not only entertains but also fosters a sense of unity and support among servicemen. Harold's Old Time Radio expertly curates this episode, ensuring that the charm and essence of the Golden Age of Radio are preserved for contemporary audiences to enjoy.