Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Riding High 37-04-29 (05)" Featuring Gene Ellington
Release Date: July 22, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Guest: Gene Ellington
Description: Step back into the Golden Age of Radio with Harold's Old Time Radio. This episode, titled "Riding High," features the charming Gene Ellington and radio's beloved quartet, the Revelers. Relive the era when families gathered around the radio to enjoy timeless shows and unforgettable performances.
Opening Segment: Ray Sinatra Introduces the Evening
Timestamp: [00:17]
Ray Sinatra, leading his orchestra, sets the stage for the evening by introducing Gene Ellington and the Revelers. He highlights the night's feature as a celebration of classic radio entertainment, evoking nostalgia for listeners familiar with icons like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, and Dragnet.
Notable Quote:
"This evening represents the charming star, Gene Ellington, and radio's most popular quartet, the Revelers." – Ray Sinatra [00:17]
Feature Interview: Hilda Rau on Elizabeth Arden’s Beauty Philosophy
Timestamp: [03:12]
Hilda Rau, a leading expert from Elizabeth Arden's Beauty Salon, discusses the brand's holistic approach to beauty. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy skin and physique through balanced, gentle exercise, specifically advocating for bicycle riding. Rau connects physical well-being with aesthetic appeal, aligning with Elizabeth Arden's philosophy.
Key Points:
- Beauty and Health Connection: Maintaining beautiful skin requires glowing health and balanced muscle tone.
- Exercise Philosophy: Avoid strenuous workouts; instead, engage in mild, effective exercises like cycling.
- Elizabeth Arden’s Initiative: Plans to invite clients to ride bicycles in the fresh air once road improvements are completed.
Notable Quote:
"There must be neither excess tissue nor a lack of sleek, streamlined, supple muscles for the pliant curves that are the perfect symphony of brace flexing to the movement of singing thoughts." – Hilda Rau [03:12]
Musical Performance: Gene Ellington – "September in the Rain"
Timestamp: [04:55]
Gene Ellington delivers a heartfelt rendition of "September in the Rain," a classic tune that captures the melancholy and nostalgia of past love. His performance is accompanied by Ray Sinatra's orchestra, creating an immersive auditory experience reminiscent of the era's romantic ballads.
Highlights of the Song:
- Emotional Depth: Ellington's vocals convey the pain and longing associated with lost love.
- Musical Arrangement: The orchestra provides a lush backdrop, enhancing the song's sentimental mood.
Notable Lines:
"The pitter and patter the clitter and clatter of raindrops the memory of it is driving me insane Love, can't you hear me pray for September in the rain..." – Gene Ellington [04:55]
Performance by the Revelers: "Little Old Lady"
Timestamp: [07:28]
The Revelers take the spotlight with their delightful performance of "Little Old Lady," a song that combines charming lyrics with a tuneful melody. Their harmonious vocals and engaging delivery showcase why they remain one of radio's most beloved quartets.
Song Highlights:
- Lyricism: The song paints a vivid picture of a charming, endearing old lady, blending humor with affection.
- Vocal Harmonies: The Revelers' synchronized harmonies add depth and warmth to the performance.
Notable Lines:
"Little old lady, you're charming, you're sweet and shine... You're just like that little old lady I hold dear to me." – Revelers [07:45]
Ray Sinatra’s Arrangements and Additional Performances
Timestamp: [10:31]
Ray Sinatra introduces his own arrangement of "Where Are You From?" from Top of the Town, followed by another heartfelt performance titled "Carelessly." These selections further enrich the evening's lineup, showcasing Sinatra's versatility as a conductor and arranger.
Performance Highlights:
- "Where Are You From?": A nostalgic piece that invites listeners to reminisce about bygone days.
- "Carelessly": Gene Ellington delivers an emotive performance, adding depth to the evening's musical offerings.
Notable Lines:
"You gave me your heart and carelessly I broke it... I wish I knew a way to find the love I threw away so carelessly." – Gene Ellington [11:50]
Closing Remarks and Announcements
Timestamp: [13:45]
Ray Sinatra wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of physical well-being as discussed earlier by Hilda Rau. He encourages listeners to embrace bicycle riding for its health and aesthetic benefits, aligning with Elizabeth Arden's recommendations. Sinatra also announces the upcoming National Music Week, highlighting opportunities for local musicians to shine.
Key Points:
- Health and Beauty: Reinforcement of the connection between staying fit and maintaining beauty.
- Upcoming Events: National Music Week from May 2 to May 9, promoting local talent.
- Next Episode Tease: Ray Sinatra will return next Thursday with new selections by American authors.
Notable Quote:
"If you neglect your physical well being. Beauty fades, unpleasant lines appear and minor ills are endured that could have been avoided by keeping fit." – Ray Sinatra [13:45]
Conclusion:
"Riding High 37-04-29 (05)" adeptly blends engaging interviews, soulful musical performances, and insightful discussions on beauty and health. Gene Ellington and the Revelers deliver memorable renditions that transport listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. Ray Sinatra's hosting ties the episode together, offering valuable takeaways on maintaining well-being and promoting community events. This episode serves as a delightful homage to a cherished era, providing both entertainment and inspiration for its audience.
