Kay Kyser
ActingAlso Known As
James King Kern Kyser, The Ol' Perfessor, James Kern Kyser
Biography
James Kern Kyser (June 18, 1905 – July 23, 1985), known as Kay Kyser, was a popular radio personality and bandleader in the 1930's and 40's. Kyser's most popular show was Kay Kyser's Kollege of Musical Knowledge, which combined popular music with a quiz show format. It aired on Mutual Radio in 1938 and then moved to NBC Radio from 1939 to 1949. Kyser led the band as “The Ol’ Perfessor,” spouting signature catch phrases like, “That’s right—you’re wrong,” “Evenin’ folks, how y’all?” and “C'mon, chillun! Le's dance!” Kyser was also known for having his singers sing the song titles, a device copied by Sammy Kaye and Blue Barron. When the song began, one of the band's lead singers (usually Harry Babbitt) sang the title phrase, and then the first verse or two of the song was performed instrumentally before the lyrics resumed.
Movies
(20 total)
You'll Find Out
as Himself
Thousands Cheer
as Kay Kyser
Stage Door Canteen
as Kay Kyser
The Movie Orgy
as Self (archive footage)
My Favorite Spy
as Kay Kyser
Playmates
as Kay Kyser
Africa Squeaks
as Cake Icer (voice)
That's Right – You're Wrong
as Kay Kyser
Swing Fever
as Lowell Blackford
Carolina Blues
as Himself
Show-Business at War
as Self
Around the World
as Kay Kyser
Showbiz Goes to War
as (archive footage)
G.I. Journal
as Self
TV Shows
(1 total)
The Mike Douglas Show
as Self