Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Three Suns And A Starlet 1946 Ep001 Old Man River
Date: August 25, 2025
Main Theme:
A nostalgic journey to the Golden Age of Radio, spotlighting a 1946 “live” musical broadcast featuring The Three Suns and Starlet Dorothy Clare. This episode is a delightful escape into classic American standards and close harmonies, as families once enjoyed together around the radio.

Episode Overview

This episode brings listeners a full classic radio segment by "The Three Suns and a Starlet," hosted by Ed Herlihy (for Glenn Riggs). It showcases the lush arrangements and smooth vocals of the era, featuring beloved standards such as "Old Man River," "Embraceable You," "Swanee River," and "Mama Loves Papa." The show radiates a cheerful, light tone—designed to transport listeners to a sunlit, stardust-laden musical world.

Key Discussion Points & Musical Highlights

1. Introduction to The Three Suns and a Starlet

• [00:34-01:30] Ed Herlihy introduces the ensemble and sets the mood for the show.
  • Ensemble Members: Artie Dunn (vocals, Hammond organ), Al Nevins (guitar), Morty Nevins (accordion), with Dorothy Clare as the “starlet.”
  • "Music styled of sunlight and stardust... you're in time for rhythm."
    — Ed Herlihy [00:43]

2. Feature Performances

“Old Man River”

• [01:31 – 05:07] A lush, instrumental swing interpretation that sets a grand, nostalgic tone.

“Embraceable You”

• [05:07–07:03] Artie Dunn croons the classic Gershwin love song, capturing the sentimental, swooning atmosphere characteristic of 1940s airwaves.
  • Quote:
    "Embrace me, my sweet embraceable you... just one look at you, my heart grew tipsy in me."
    — Artie Dunn, singing [05:07]
  • The performance finishes with gentle back-and-forth vocals emulating romantic longing.
    • "Don't be a naughty baby, come to papa..." [06:45]
    • "My sweet embraceable you..." [06:57]

“Swanee River”

• [07:13 – 10:51] Dorothy Clare takes the spotlight with a lively, sunny swing rendition, infusing the standard with both nostalgia and cheer. Backed by vibrant trio harmonies, this song evokes the longing and wistfulness of being far from home.
  • Quote:
    "Way down upon the Swanee River, far, far away. That's where my heart is turning hither, that's where the old folks stay."
    — Dorothy Clare, singing [09:22]

“Mama Loves Papa”

• [10:51 – 14:03] Artie Dunn and Dorothy Clare join voices for this playful, upbeat duet celebrating marital harmony and simple joys.
  • Memorable Moments:
    • Playful banter in lyrics, exuding domestic bliss and contentment.
    • Quote:
      "Oh, me, oh my, what a life I lead..." [12:27]
      "Mama loves Papa, Papa loves Mama, everything's dandy, sweet as can be." [12:49]
    • Refrain lines echo the cheerful spirit:
      "We've got a bungalow and oh, what a time we'll have..." [13:22]
      "People like us, we never do fuss. We've always got something better to do. Cause Mama loves Papa, Papa loves Mama too." [13:34]

Notable Quotes & Moments

• "Like a jack in the box, the three sons make merry with up jump. Love it."
  — Ed Herlihy (introducing an upbeat, energetic section) [07:13]
• "The calm after the storm. Starlet, Dorothy, Claire and Artie Dunn get together in a few moments for 'Mama Loves Papa.'"
  — Ed Herlihy [10:51]
• "Leave off the frills. Cause no matter how you say it, it's still Mama Loves Papa."
  — Ed Herlihy [12:13]

Important Segments & Timestamps

| Segment | Timestamps | |------------------------|---------------| | Show Introduction | 00:34 – 01:30 | | “Old Man River” | 01:31 – 05:07 | | “Embraceable You” | 05:07 – 07:03 | | Transition/"Up Jump" | 07:13 | | “Swanee River” | 09:22 – 10:51 | | “Mama Loves Papa” | 12:27 – 14:03 | | Show Closing | 14:51 |

Style & Tone

High-spirited, wholesome, and nostalgic. The performers and announcer maintain a warm, inviting manner throughout, with lively musical interludes and a gentle, humorous touch in the banter.

Closing & Takeaways

The episode is a vibrant audio snapshot from 1946, ideal for lovers of classic radio and American standards. The Three Suns' craftsmanship, Dorothy Clare's luminous vocals, and Ed Herlihy’s charming narration revive the musical magic that once brought families together before the television age.

"For more music styled of sunlight and stardust, join us next time when you'll be in time for rhythm with the three suns and a starlet."
— Ed Herlihy [14:51]