Summary of "Your Sugar Report 45-01-20 Ep145: Songs, Hollywood Gossip & News"

Harold's Old Time Radio relives the charm of the Golden Age of Radio in its April 19, 2025, episode titled "Your Sugar Report 45-01-20 Ep145: Songs, Hollywood Gossip & News." Hosted by the versatile Brenda Marshall and featuring insights from Corporal Van Horne, the episode navigates through the latest happenings in music, Broadway, and Hollywood. This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, performances, and news segments, providing a comprehensive overview for both longtime enthusiasts and new listeners.

Introduction

The episode begins with a brief advertisement from VRBO, promoting long stay discounts for vacation rentals. Following the ad, Brenda Marshall introduces herself and sets the stage for the week's content, promising updates on music, radio personalities, and Broadway stage shows.

• Timestamp [00:15] - Brenda Marshall:
  "Hiya fellas. This is your Sugar."

Segment 1: Broadway and Stage Shows

Brenda delves into the vibrant world of Broadway, covering a variety of updates and happenings:

• Farewell to Sonya Haney:
  Sonya Haney, adorably clad in her GI uniform, bids adieu to her Broadway friends before embarking on an overseas tour.

• Ida Lapino at Yankee Stadium:
  The star charms audiences by glamorizing the box seat section of Yankee Stadium and enjoys the game with hot dogs and pop bottles, showing a more relaxed side.

• Mae West's Move to the West Coast:
  In a significant career move, Mae West leaves the main stem, heading towards the West Coast, signaling a shift in her professional endeavors.

• Benny Goodman's Golden Baton:
  Nat Moss, a prominent Broadway night spot owner, presents Benny Goodman with a solid gold baton for his birthday, celebrating his contributions to music.

• Joey Adams' Capitol Theater Surprise:
  Joey Adams is both thrilled and confused to see a massive line outside his theater early in the morning, only to realize fans were actually heading towards Schultes Cigar Store nearby.

• Dolores del Rio's Departure:
  After years of headlining on Broadway, Dolores del Rio prepares to leave for Mexico, marking the end of an era.

• Al Jolson's Broadway Arrival:
  Al Jolson arrives in town and spends his evenings introducing his new bride to Broadway enthusiasts.

• Kathleen Windsor and Amber's Returns:
  Kathleen Windsor, author of the bestseller "Forever," and Amber return to town, working on new novels and theatrical ventures respectively.

• Billy Rose's New Show:
  Despite his busy schedule, producer Billy Rose crafts the new "Diamond Horseshoe" show, later named "Toast of the Town," featuring Anne Pennington and Helen Kane.

• Derbingle Crosby and Jimmy Dorsey's Moves:
  Derbingle Crosby is set to perform in town soon, while Jimmy Dorsey leaves his band for a stint in Hollywood.

• Unexpected Lunch Duo:
  In a rare occurrence, songwriter Irving Caesar and New York Giants' third baseman Napoleon Reyes share a lunch on Broadway, blending the worlds of sports and music.

• Barney Ross' New Residence:
  Former champ Barney Ross decides to make New York his permanent home.

• Phil Brito's Recognition:
  Singer Phil Brito returns to Broadway from Ohio after being voted the most promising male vocalist by the Ohio Phonograph Owners Association.

• Hildegard's New Show:
  The beloved satirist Hildegard gears up for a new show featuring Perry Como and Ted Steele's orchestra.

• "Memphis Bound" Opening:
  The new Broadway extravaganza "Memphis Bound," starring Bill Robinson, opens with grand fanfare but receives mixed reviews.

• French Oton and Gracie Fields' Departures:
  Hollywood star French Oton and Gracie Fields leave Broadway for new ventures abroad, with Fields planning travels to New Zealand, India, and Manila.

• Exclusive Musical Item:
  The episode features an exclusive performance by Lena Horne and Phil Moore, recorded in New York but not yet released publicly.

Segment 2: Exclusive Performance

A highlight of the episode is the exclusive performance by Lena Horne and Phil Moore titled "How Long Has This Been Going On?" This original piece offers listeners a sneak peek into upcoming releases and showcases the enduring talent of Horne and Moore.

• Timestamp [08:19] - Lena Horne:
  "I could cry salty tears where have I been all these years?"

Segment 3: Music Industry News with Corporal Van Horne

Corporal Van Horne takes over to provide the latest updates from the music industry, including:

• Glenn Miller Day Celebrations:
  Nationwide observance of Glenn Miller Day features a monumental concert at the Paramount Theater in New York. The event, aimed at selling war bonds, includes performances by legends like Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Gene Krupa, and Cab Calloway. Admission ranges from $25 to $10,000, with participation contingent on war bond purchases.

• Gene Krupa's Overseas Plans:
  Gene Krupa seeks permission from his draft board to take his band overseas, a request currently under advisement with a decision expected within two weeks.

• Frankie Sinatra's Rising Star:
  Frankie Sinatra emerges as the leading vocalist on Derbingle Crosby's program, marking a significant step in his career.

• Jane Harvey's Career Shift:
  Former Benny Goodman vocalist Jane Harvey leaves the band to focus on singles and recording, exploring new avenues in her musical journey.

• Francis Wayne's New Tune:
  Francis Wayne releases a new song, "Happiness Is a Thing Called Jo," adding to her repertoire of successful performances.

• Sigmund Romberg's Legacy:
  Celebrating the prolific songwriter Sigmund Romberg, who has composed approximately 3,000 songs since winning his first composition contest with a $25 bet.

• Jane Froman's Comeback:
  After a severe accident in Lisbon, Portugal, Jane Froman is on the mend and preparing for a return to entertaining troops overseas.

• Martha Stewart's Vocal Ventures:
  Transitioning from band business to a solo career, singer Martha Stewart releases her latest ballad, "She’s Funny That Way," receiving positive acclaim.

• Timestamp [11:37] - Corporal Van Horne:
  "I sure will, Brenda. Early this month, throughout the country, Glenn Miller Day was observed..."

Notable Quotes

• Brenda Marshall on the Show's Content:
  "I'll try to include the same kind of items in this radio letter so that you'll be kept up to date on the news of music and musicians..."
  [Timestamp: 00:44]

• Lena Horne's Emotional Plea:
  "How long has this been going on? How long has this been going on?"
  [Timestamp: 08:19]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with another brief advertisement from VRBO, echoing the opening sponsorship without delving back into content. Brenda Marshall and Corporal Van Horne successfully deliver a comprehensive roundup of the latest in music, Broadway, and Hollywood, ensuring listeners are both entertained and informed.

This summary provides a structured and detailed overview of the episode, capturing all essential discussions, performances, and news items. Notable quotes are highlighted with timestamps to emphasize key moments, ensuring the summary flows naturally and remains accessible to those who haven't listened to the episode.