
Major Bowes Amateur Hour 35-03-24 First Show on Network Radio After 11 Years on WHN
Loading summary
Ryan Seacrest
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 now@chumbacasino.com that's chumbacasino.com no.
Announcer
Purchase necessary bgw void prohibited by law. See terms and conditions 18.
Jason Sanborn
Tonight, Jason Sanborn presents Major Bo's Amateur Hour. There have been amateur hours in the theater. And there have been amateurs on the radio. But about a year ago, Major devised a new pattern of radio Amateur Hour. Something that was entirely original and had never been done before. Major Bose is therefore responsible for the present vogue for amateur hours on the air. It is his proud distinction to be the most copied radio personality to date. Major Bowe's own original Amateur Hour presented tonight. Is made possible by your purchases of Tayson Sanborn's dated coffee. The coffee you know is fresh. These amateurs exhibit their wares. You select the winners by your vote. There are two ways to vote. If you live in the vicinity of New York, you telephone your votes early and often. The number is Murray Hill, 89933. I repeat, Murray Hill 89933. In addition, tonight is Chicago Night. By special arrangement, Chicago listeners will also vote by calling Franklin4,900. That's Franklin4,900. These Chicago votes will be flashed to us within five minutes. And frequent bulletins will be read by major for those elsewhere. Mailing ballots are supplied free at your grocer's. Or you may, of course, write in on your own stationery. Decide tonight which contestants you wish to vote for. And get your official ballot from your grocer tomorrow. Remember, Chicago in vicinity calls Franklin 4, 900. New York and metropolitan area. Call Murray Hill 89933 and call quickly. Major will announce the names of the first two Chicago voters. Also the names of the first two voters from the New York metropolitan area. The leaders in the voting will be given professional engagements in RKO metropolitan theaters. So please help these deserving youngsters by voting early and often. I now present Major Bolt.
Major Edward Bowes
Thank you, Jimmy, and good evening, friends. This is the proudest moment I've ever known in radio. And I've been at the microphone for more than a decade. And by the same token, I feel a Greater responsibility than ever before. Our proceedings, as you'll observe, are informal, without precedent. And you, within sound of my voice, are just as much a part of this show as these youngsters who come to the microphone. The studio is enormous. It seats I don't know how many, a couple of thousand. And these amateurs, lacking experience, must stand before this great audience and give a performance. It's a task for a seasoned professional, much less a Simon pure amateur. And so we need your help. We want your votes. Please telephone. Your choice. Telephone. Early telephone. Often you decide the winners. And the winners will receive immediate professional engagement. The studio is crowded with friendly faces. There are millions listening. I'm going to repeat the telephone numbers again. In New York, It's Murray Hill 89933. In Chicago, it's Franklin 4, 900. In this building, girls are sitting at 200 telephones to take your vote. There should be no line busy. Now. First of the microphone is a four piece. Bang. Mara sisters. Four little kid sisters. Piano, two saxophones and a trap drummer. And this drummer is a little girl as big as a minute and as cute as cute can be. Watch her little spindle legs work. And so the wheel begins to spin. All right. It all right. Paul Whiteman is leading the applause. Paul Whiteman is applauding harder than anybody. Those are the Myers sisters. Their little officer play, the 12 speed rag. Now we have Percy Wood, Boer War veteran, who yodels. All right, Percy, let's hear the yodel. Well, we mustn't. We like your applause, but we mustn't applaud too long. That's Percy, the yodeler. He was through the Boer War and we went through one of his yodels. So it's even Stevens. All right, now, what have we here? The merry go round has started. That's the crazy quilt. A grab bag, it's a whirligig is just a wheel of fortune. Around we go, each of us sign for the brass ring. I can promise nothing because I never know what's coming. But it's a lot of fun. The first telephone call from the New York area is Mr. Martin McLean. And the second call from the New York area is Ms. Rose Wills. Thank you very much. Now we have Franklin Jensen, baritone. His application states that he's a photographer. Where were you born, Franklin? I was born in the Virgin Islands, major. Which one? St. Thomas. St. Frost, St. John. Where? St. Thomas Major. You see, we touch every part of the United States in these amateur hours. You study singing? No. Well, just a little bit to help My voice along. I've always wanted to sing ever since I was a little boy. Well, what do you want to see him? Concert singer. Stage, Radio. What's your ambition? Concert singer. The Roland Hayes and Paul Robeson. Eddie Masters. Yes. Well, in that case, you either want to sing the Glory Road or Deep river or Waterboy. They all do. We all know the song, Paul. They want to sing. What do you want to sing? Water Boys. Water Boys. Thought so. All right, come on.
Franklin Jensen
You Jack O Diamond. You Jack O Diamond. I knows you from old boys. Yes, I knows you from old. You robbed my pocket, Donna. Rubbed my pocket. Yes, rubbed my pocket of silver and gold. What a bo. Where are you hiding? If you don't come, why not tell your ma'am?
Major Edward Bowes
All right. That's Franklin Jensen, baritone. Franklin Jensen, baritone. Your paws is lovely, but if you drag it out too much, we're going to lose one or two numbers in the course of the evening. We have so much. Franklin Jensen, baritone. From the Virgin Islands. He sang Waterboy and remember Murray Hill 8 9933. And in Chicago, Franklin 4900. Now, one of the noblest of all professions is that of teaching. And frequently one of the least appreciated. I say this having in mind a born teacher. Clyde Doer, famous saxophone virtuoso. Saxophone, as you know, is a comparatively young instrument. The great symphonies, the older symphonies have no parts written for saxophone. But it's an instrument with a human quality and is greatly loved and very effective. Now, Clyde Dawes hobby is to teach the young idea how to toot, right? So I invited him here to bring some. Invited him to bring some of his pupils. And he's got three boys, one 10 and the others are 15 each. That's a total of 40 years amongst the three of them. So we're going to have a saxophone trio. All right, Text tomorrow. All right, that's three boys. Lewis Smith, Arthur Parkman and Maxwell Wexler, the saxophone amateurs. And from Chicago we have the first bulletin. The first call from Chicago was Jack Hines. The second call from Chicago was Frank Berry. And they both voted for the Morris sisters. That's quick word and thank Chicago very much indeed. Next week is Philadelphia week. You see, New York and vicinity always calls. But each Sunday night are different other cities all over the United States. Sunday by Sunday. Tonight, Chicago. And next week Philadelphia. So it goes on with reaches San Francisco. And that'll be a night that I think I'll get up to my phone self. But faster and faster swings our little merry go round. It's A big show, ladies and gentlemen. Only a dime, 10 cents a 10 spot of a dollar. This way, neighbors. Step on the inside. The show is going on all the time. Good for a pain in the hip, near ankle, side back or chest. Thank you, sir. And you thank me, neighbor. How'd you like the show? Terrible. That's what they all say. Good people. Step on the inside and jump aboard. Now let's see who's next. What's Jeff Speech. Mary Miller. Application reads singer from Hamburg. You live in New York, Ms. Miller?
Mary Miller
Yes, Ms. Miller.
Major Edward Bowes
I suppose it is. That's your little baby, is it? That's your baby?
Mary Miller
Yes. I brought them along Nail because I have nobody to taking care of him.
Major Edward Bowes
I think it'll be all right. I'm sure it'll be all right. But don't look at me. I'm sure it'll be all right. But for a singer to step up the microphone, the little boy indicates a story. What sort of singing do you do? Tell us about yourself.
Mary Miller
Met soprano, mezzo soprano, metro soprano, you know. My husband used to be Steve sheep steward and we traveled all over the country on account of that. I never get a start, you know. Good to go to my career so well.
Major Edward Bowes
Moving around all over the country as far as you can. And I suppose your ambition is to sing. But sometimes in our ambitions we forget our real blessings. Be the happiest woman in the world. If you were a prima donna, wouldn't you?
Mary Miller
I would like to sing opera. Anybody would give me had changed enough.
Major Edward Bowes
I know, but how many opera singers would think of the opera singers that would give up the oper sing if they could have a child like that?
Mary Miller
I never would miss my child for anything or any money in a voice.
Major Edward Bowes
Wouldn't give up your child?
Mary Miller
I wouldn't give up.
Announcer
Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm going to make him an offer he can't refuse. With family, cannoli and spins mean everything. Now you want to get mixed up in the family business. Introducing the godfather@champacasino.com 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@Champacasino.com Welcome to the family. No purchase necessary VGW Group void. We're prohibited by law 21 + terms and conditions apply.
Mary Miller
My bag. Well, my music not either.
Major Edward Bowes
Well, maybe you can eat your cake and have it too, huh? What do you want to sing?
Mary Miller
I sing. Please. Please.
Major Edward Bowes
All right, let's.
Mary Miller
For intimately lives with.
Clyde Dawes
Rain forehands are mine Thy foolish like.
Mary Miller
Me.
Clyde Dawes
But only God can make all three.
Major Edward Bowes
All right, that's Mrs. Mary Miller with a little boy who wants to be an opera singer. Who knows who? Telephone's Murray Hill, 89933. And in Chicago, it's Franklin 4, 900. Now, about auditions. Those are New York and vicinity. Should write. Address your letter to Mazer Bowles, Amateur Hour chair of National Broadcasting Company, RCA Building, New York City. And state your qualifications. People who have unusual instruments are especially welcome. Tell us about yourself, and if your letter seems promising, we'll invite you to an audition. Please don't telephone for auditions. Write now. This is the application of Adele Kaplan. The application states, at the age of 13, won two medals, graduated from the Julia Richmond High School. Has taken nursery and kindergarten training and studied music. Right?
Mary Miller
Yes, major.
Major Edward Bowes
You won two medals. The age of 13. Sunday school medal.
Mary Miller
One was from public school and the other one was from the Metropolitan League Association.
Major Edward Bowes
The what?
Mary Miller
Metropolitan League Association.
Major Edward Bowes
Metropolitan League Association. Baseball.
Clyde Dawes
No.
Major Edward Bowes
Well, you have the looks. Whether you have a voice or not, we'll soon find out. What do you want? What do you want to sing?
Mary Miller
I carry you in my pocket well.
Major Edward Bowes
Button up your overcoat.
Clyde Dawes
I carry you in my pocket in the locket of go your remain Till the sun grows cold I take a little look each morning and I take a little look each night Just to see if you're feeling I don't know if it's right or wrong but when I look at you, dear it's just like a mountain so I got you in my pocket in the locket of gold.
Major Edward Bowes
All right, all right. Well, your audience is behaving beautifully, I'll say that. I can't see a grouchy face in this whole hall. That was Adele Kaplan. Now we have the first telephone bulletin. First one that's come in from the New York area. The Morris sisters. Percy Wood, Gloria Berger, Franklin Jensen and Clyde Dawes, pupils. And here is the telephone call. The Morris sisters got 12, 43 calls. Percy Wood, the Utiler, got two. He didn't get a very good start. Matter of fact, the war that went against him. Gloria Burger, 344. Next time she'll be bigger. Okay, and I'll telephone myself. Franklin Jensen from the virgin islands, got one out of 11. And the little amateur saxophonist, 47. So you see, the calls are coming in now. That takes a little time to get them in motion. And we're very grateful. And as I look over at Paul Whiteman who's worried about his Performance tonight. Hasn't faced an audience for so long. Feels very much good now. We got who? There he is. One man band. Al Francis. A one man band. You know, in starting these amateur hours, I started to vote for one man band. I'm really proud of it. 2. Because all the kids are up in the attic digging out old hoop skirts and tin cans and amalgam fillings and pieces of hoes and hose pipes and watering cans and making one man bands out of them. Some are grand and some are terrible, but one thing is certain, they always have a lot of apparatus. This one has a bass drum and cymbals and an old. An old valve trombone. I can't look at him and talk in the micro at the same time. Paul, you haven't seen one of those for 20 years. I'll bet. Anyway, we'll see what he has to play. All right. And I started a boat for one man band. He's not only tongue deaf, he's stone deaf. What do the ancient Daughters Hibernians do to me? My wild eyes. Rose, help, please. That's Al Francis, the one. Hey, who started that vote for one man band? I'd like to find out.
Jason Sanborn
Major, may I interrupt for just a moment, please?
Major Edward Bowes
All right, Jimmy.
Jason Sanborn
I think that everybody in here and everyone on the air should know that the first two calls from New York City. That for Mr. Martin McLean and the one for Ms. Rose Wills. Both voted for Major Bowes. That's. That's two votes for the Major. Puts them in a class with a yodel, I guess. Incidentally, Major, we have.
Major Edward Bowes
That makes three of us. That's three of us.
Jason Sanborn
We have several telegrams here that I'd like to read at this time. And I think that it really is due you that they should be read. Here's one from Rosa Poncel. My dear Major, with so many achievements already to your credit, it seemed hardly possible that you could add to your laurels. But now your outstanding success in the radio world makes us say once again, bravo and heartiest congratulations.
Major Edward Bowes
Stop.
Jason Sanborn
May you continue for a long time to watch over the striving amateurs and continue to guide those worthy of it into channels for serious study. For the musical career. Signs rose upon cell. And here's one from the Governor of the State of New York. Stated from Albany, Governor Herbert H. Lehman. It's addressed to Major Edward Bowes. And he says, I am glad to congratulate you on the inauguration of your new radio broadcast and to wish you the success that has characterized all your programs in the past. Signed, Herbert H. Lehman. That's all right.
Major Edward Bowes
Well, I said at the beginning that this is my proudest radio night. And so it is. Now we have. Who? Al. Ala. Al. Al Shula. Lady's coat. Your application, sir. What do you do with ladies coats?
Al Francis
Well, I sell them, Nathan.
Major Edward Bowes
Say, if you had to buy them, it wouldn't be showy. She ho it. And you have an ambition to be a radio singer?
Al Francis
Oh, yes, I have, Major.
Major Edward Bowes
Have you had any experience in radio singing?
Al Francis
Well, I had a very unusual experience, Major. About a year ago, I answered an advertisement in the paper for some radio talent. But when I did get there, I saw this agent and he gave me a new addition.
Jason Sanborn
Well, a few days later I received.
Al Francis
A postcard to see him about a sponsor for a program for me. But when I did get there, he greeted me at the door. 50 cents, please. Well, I gave him the 50 cents, thinking I might have a job.
Major Edward Bowes
Didn't think you were worth a dollar even.
Al Francis
Well, when I did get in there.
Major Edward Bowes
I must interrupt you because recently the fraudulent radio schools have been springing up and they work a great injustice even for small sums. They get the unstuck. No doubt that was your experience, but make it a little briefer. What happened? Did you go on and pay him and take lessons?
Al Francis
Well, I did, and many others did also. Well, here was the beginning of the lesson. You know, he made the 30 or 40 of us stand up in back of his. In front of the seat, you know, and he got up in front of us and said, boys and girls, go this way.
Major Edward Bowes
You know, I could have him arrested for giving an impersonation of me. Well, go ahead. What is the second lesson, if any?
Al Francis
Well, I'll tell you, Major, he says, no matter where you go, I don't care if it's in a subway, in an elevator, or outside any. Anywhere you are, don't be ashamed of the folks.
Major Edward Bowes
Just go, ew. Well, maybe I should call that School of Fraud. Maybe that's the standard. I'm not so sure. But anyway, I'm glad it came up because perhaps the people listening will beware of these fraudulent schools. They really do a great deal of damage. Now, in the meantime, after all those lessons, what do you want to sing?
Al Francis
Well, Major, I'd like to sing My Mother's Eye, Roger.
Major Edward Bowes
Gentle song.
Al Francis
That's right, Major. I think I can sing it just as well as he can.
Major Edward Bowes
Well, you won't get as much. Well, the one thing I'll. The one thing I'll promise you, you won't get as much money for singing this either. All right, Come on. My mother's eyes.
Franklin Jensen
One pride and guiding light that caught me wrong from right I found in my mother's eyes.
Major Edward Bowes
Mo's.
Franklin Jensen
Baby tale she told that rod of paved with gold I found in my mother's eye Just like a wife wandering sparrow One lonely soul I walk the straight and narrow so is my goal God gives end from above of unreal unselfish love I found in a mobile.
Major Edward Bowes
All right, who sells ladies coach and imitates George Giv. All right, Jimmy.
Commercial Announcer
Our operators will be on duty for another half hour, so there's still time for you to telephone your vote. Call Murray Hill, 89933 in New York or Lafayette 7500 in Boston. Elsewhere throughout the United States and Canada, grocers have free ballots for you to use. Or you can vote by letter or postcards sent in care of your own station. Bear in mind the saving you can make by getting Chase and Sanborn's dated coffee in its new inexpensive dated bag. The coffee is the same superb blend as always and it reaches you at its best because its freshness is guaranteed by the dating plan. The only difference is the new bag and the lower price it makes possible. We save money by using a bag instead of an expensive can and we pass the saving on to you. Try this rich full flavored coffee. Buy a bag of Tayson Sanborn dated coffee tomorrow.
Major Edward Bowes
And until next Sunday. Good evening friends.
Ryan Seacrest
It is Ryan Seacrest here. There was a recent social media trend which consisted of flying on a plane with no music, no movies, no entertainment. But a better trend would be going to chumbacasino.com it's like having a mini social casino in your pocket. Chumba casino has over 100 online casino style games, all absolutely free. It's the most fun you can have online and on a plane. So grab your free welcome bonus now@chumbacasino.com sponsored by Chumbacasino.
Announcer
No purchase necessary. VGW Group void. We're prohibited by law 21/ terms and conditions apply.
Podcast Summary: Major Bowes Amateur Hour – First Show on Network Radio After 11 Years on WHN
Podcast Information:
Jason Sanborn kicks off the episode by introducing the historic moment of Major Bowes returning to network radio after an 11-year hiatus from WHN. He highlights Major Bowes' innovation in reinventing the traditional amateur hour, making it a staple in contemporary radio by encouraging direct audience participation.
“Major Bowes is therefore responsible for the present vogue for amateur hours on the air. It is his proud distinction to be the most copied radio personality to date.”
[00:32] Jason Sanborn
Sanborn emphasizes the interactive nature of the show, where listeners can vote for their favorite amateur performers either via telephone or mail-in ballots. He explains the voting process, including designated phone numbers for New York and Chicago audiences, and outlines the rewards for winners, such as professional engagements in RKO metropolitan theaters.
Major Edward Bowes takes the microphone with palpable excitement, declaring the evening as his proudest radio moment. He underscores the informal and unprecedented nature of the show, stressing the importance of audience participation in determining the night's winners.
“We want your votes. Please telephone. Your choice. Telephone. Early telephone. Often you decide the winners.”
[02:41] Major Edward Bowes
Bowes describes the grand studio setup, capable of accommodating a couple of thousand attendees, and introduces the first amateur performers, including the Mara sisters—a four-piece ensemble of four young sisters accompanied by a child drummer.
The show features a diverse lineup of amateur talents, each bringing unique performances to the stage:
Mara Sisters ([03:15] Major Edward Bowes):
A lively performance of a 12-speed rag titled “Little Officer Play”, met with enthusiastic applause from audience member Paul Whiteman.
“Paul Whiteman is applauding harder than anybody. Those are the Myers sisters.”
[03:20] Major Edward Bowes
Percy Wood ([08:01] Major Edward Bowes):
A Boer War veteran showcasing his yodeling skills, though Bowes humorously notes the need to keep applause concise to maintain the show's pacing.
“That's Percy, the yodeler. He was through the Boer War...”
[08:01] Major Edward Bowes
Franklin Jensen ([08:45] Major Edward Bowes):
A baritone from the Virgin Islands who performs a rendition of “Waterboy”, demonstrating his aspiration to become a concert singer.
“You Jack O Diamond. You Jack O Diamond...”
[08:01] Franklin Jensen
Saxophone Trio ([14:12] Major Edward Bowes):
Led by Clyde Dawes, this trio features three young saxophonists, aged 10 and 15, highlighting the importance of teaching in nurturing young talent.
“Clyde Dawes hobby is to teach the young idea how to toot...”
[14:12] Major Edward Bowes
Mary Miller ([13:27] Mary Miller & [15:28] Major Edward Bowes):
A soprano from Hamburg who brings her young child to the show, embodying the challenges of balancing career ambitions with family life.
“I never would miss my child for anything or any money in a voice.”
[14:26] Mary Miller
Adele Kaplan ([17:22] Major Edward Bowes):
A 13-year-old achiever with a background in nursery and kindergarten training, performing “I Carry You in My Pocket”.
“I carry you in my pocket in the locket of gold...”
[17:48] Adele Kaplan
Al Francis ([24:19] Al Francis):
A one-man band enthusiast sharing his experiences with fraudulent radio schools, adding a touch of humor and caution for aspiring artists.
“They get the unstuck. No doubt that was your experience...”
[25:02] Al Francis
Throughout the episode, Major Bowes maintains a strong connection with the audience, providing updates on voting results and acknowledging incoming votes from both New York and Chicago.
“The Morris sisters got 12, 43 calls. Percy Wood, the yodeler, got two... Franklin Jensen from the Virgin Islands got one out of 11.”
[19:32] Major Edward Bowes
Jason Sanborn occasionally interjects to announce notable votes and telegrams from listeners, including congratulations from Rosa Poncel and Governor Herbert H. Lehman of New York.
“Governor Herbert H. Lehman. It's addressed to Major Edward Bowes. And he says, I am glad to congratulate you on the inauguration of your new radio broadcast...”
[23:03] Jason Sanborn
These interactions not only underscore the show's popularity but also reinforce the community-driven aspect of the amateur hour.
During Al Francis’ segment, Major Bowes addresses the emerging issue of fraudulent radio schools, advising listeners to be cautious and highlighting the potential pitfalls for aspiring performers.
“Recently the fraudulent radio schools have been springing up and they work a great injustice even for small sums.”
[25:06] Major Edward Bowes
This candid discussion provides valuable insights and warnings to the audience, emphasizing Bowes' role not just as a host but as a mentor and protector of amateur talent.
As the show wraps up, Major Bowes reflects on the evening's performances and the importance of community support in nurturing young talent. He extends his gratitude to the listeners for their active participation and sets the stage for future episodes, mentioning upcoming themed nights like Philadelphia week.
“I said at the beginning that this is my proudest radio night. And so it is.”
[24:06] Major Edward Bowes
Jason Sanborn and Major Bowes conclude the show by reiterating the voting instructions, ensuring that listeners know how to continue supporting their favorite amateurs.
“Until next Sunday. Good evening friends.”
[29:29] Major Edward Bowes
Major Edward Bowes:
“We want your votes. Please telephone. Your choice. Telephone. Early telephone. Often you decide the winners.”
[02:41]
Mary Miller:
“I never would miss my child for anything or any money in a voice.”
[14:26]
Al Francis:
“They really do a great deal of damage.”
[25:06]
Governor Herbert H. Lehman:
“I am glad to congratulate you on the inauguration of your new radio broadcast and to wish you the success that has characterized all your programs in the past.”
[23:28]
The first network broadcast of Major Bowes Amateur Hour after 11 years signifies a revitalization of a cherished radio tradition, blending nostalgia with modern interactive elements. The show successfully engages listeners through diverse amateur performances, real-time voting, and heartfelt interactions, fostering a sense of community and support for emerging talents. Major Bowes' leadership and genuine enthusiasm emerge as pivotal in driving the show's success, making it a beacon for aspiring artists and a beloved program for audiences nationwide.
By maintaining a balance between entertainment and mentorship, the episode underscores the enduring power of radio as a medium for discovery and connection, honoring the Golden Age's legacy while paving the way for future generations of performers.