Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Riding High 37-04-22 (04) Guest - Hildegarde"

Release Date: June 28, 2025
Duration: Approximately 15 minutes

Introduction and Show Opening

Timestamp: [00:14]

Ray Sinatra opens the episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio" with his orchestra, setting the stage for an evening filled with vibrant performances and engaging discussions. He introduces the guest of the night, Hildegarde La Belle, an American star renowned in European nightclubs. Accompanying her are Carl Tress and Dick McDonough, acclaimed as America’s leading swing guitarists. The show kicks off energetically with Ray and his band performing the lively track "Slap that Bass."

Fashion Segment with Betty Goodwin

Timestamp: [02:21] - [04:40]

Ray Sinatra transitions the show to a fashion-focused segment, featuring Betty Goodwin, the esteemed fashion editor of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC). Betty delves into the burgeoning trend of bicycle fashion, emphasizing its dual appeal for practicality and style.

Notable Quotes:

• Betty Goodwin [02:45]:
  "There are lots of reasons for taking up bicycling. Some of the radio stars bicycle to get thin. Others bicycle because it's such a practical sport for someone who lives in the city."

• Betty Goodwin [03:15]:
  "From my point of view as a fashion editor, the best reason for being a bicycle enthusiast is that no woman could help being enthusiastic about the new bicycle clothes."

She highlights the latest in bicycle attire for women, including:

• Tailored slacks and jackets: Combining comfort with style.
• Black fabrics: Dominating this year’s bicycle fashion.
• Ankle clamps: Designed like bracelets to prevent trouser legs from getting caught in spokes.
• Pleated shorts: Longer than traditional shorts, just above the knees, offering a graceful silhouette.
• Culottes (divided skirts): Shorter and more elegant, providing ease of movement.
• Linen knapsacks and bicycle jewelry: Functional yet fashionable accessories.

Betty introduces a complimentary 22-page booklet titled "Fashion Cycle," featuring color photographs of popular radio stars, including Hildegarde, sporting the latest bicycle fashions. She encourages listeners to request their free copies by sending a penny postcard to the NBC Fashion Editor in New York.

Betty Goodwin [04:10]:
"We present Ms. Betty Goodwin with all the color fashion photographs of the radio stars."

Musical Performance: "When Love Is Young" by Hildegard La Belle

Timestamp: [04:40] - [07:22]

Returning to the musical segment, Ray Sinatra introduces Hildegard La Belle to perform the romantic ballad "When Love Is Young." Her melodious voice captivates the audience as she delivers heartfelt lyrics about the exuberance and fragility of young love.

Lyrics Excerpt: "When love is young, you must let your heart be sway. When love is young, each song is a serenade..."

Hildegard's performance sets a tender and nostalgic mood, resonating with listeners who cherish the timeless themes of love and dreams.

Swing Guitar Performance: "Chicken a la Swing" by Kyle Kress and Dick McDonough

Timestamp: [07:22] - [09:19]

Ray Sinatra introduces Kyle Kress and Dick McDonough, heralded as guitar virtuosos in the swing genre. They perform an original piece titled "Chicken a la Swing," showcasing their exceptional guitar skills and innovative arrangements. The number is a delightful blend of upbeat rhythms and intricate melodies, embodying the essence of swing music.

Notable Interaction:

• Ray Sinatra [07:55]:
  "It. That's my favorite dish. Looking forward to daylight saving time. And who wants to save daylight when the nights are so grand?"

Their performance adds a lively and dynamic flair to the show, keeping the energy high and the audience engaged.

Musical Duet: "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off" with Ray Sinatra and Hildegard La Belle

Timestamp: [09:19] - [11:15]

The spotlight returns to Hildegard La Belle as she teams up with Ray Sinatra for a charming rendition of the classic duet "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off." Their harmonious voices intertwine seamlessly, delivering playful lyrics about the humorous disagreements in a romantic relationship.

Lyrics Excerpt: "You like potato and I like potato. You like tomato and I like potato... Oh, let's call the whole thing off."

This duet not only entertains but also showcases the chemistry between the host and the guest, adding depth and relatability to the performance.

Final Fashion Promotion and Show Conclusion

Timestamp: [11:15] - [14:54]

As the musical performances draw to a close, Ray Sinatra revisits the fashion segment, reiterating the benefits of Betty Goodwin's "Fashion Cycles" booklet. He emphasizes how the latest bicycle fashions can enhance both style and physical well-being.

Ray Sinatra [11:30]:
"Remember the address NBC Fashion Editor, NBC New York, and as soon as you receive your free copy, take it to your favorite store for assistance and advice as to the costumes best suited to your personality."

The promotion underscores the synergy between fashion and lifestyle, encouraging listeners to embrace cycling with style.

Ray also hints at future episodes, teasing next week's feature on Gene Ellington and the Revelers, and acknowledges the show's sponsorship by Cycle Trades of America.

Closing Remark: "We are only as good as our legs. This is the Blue Network of the National Broadcasting Company."

Post-Show Note

Timestamp: [14:54]

The episode concludes with a brief utterance from Betty Goodwin, saying, "Sam.," likely a callback to an earlier interaction, maintaining the show's light-hearted and personable tone.

Conclusion

In "Riding High 37-04-22 (04) Guest - Hildegarde," Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully blends music, fashion, and engaging conversation to transport listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. Through captivating performances by Hildegard La Belle and stellar guitarists Carl Tress and Dick McDonough, complemented by insightful segments from fashion expert Betty Goodwin, the episode offers a rich and nostalgic auditory experience. Notable quotes and lively interactions enhance the show's authenticity, making it a delightful listen for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.