Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star BBC Radio 2
Clare Teale presents a series
profiling 30s singer Al Bowlly,
the first to step out from behind
the band and into the spotlight.
With anecdotes about his fascinating
life, and playing some of his
huge catalogue of songs, the
series recreates the dance band
era.
Bowlly was the voice of the Thirties.
His iconic recordings of Pennies
from Heaven, The Very Thought of
You and Goodnight Sweetheart
reflected the dreams, aspirations
and style of the decade leading
up to the Second World War. After
his death during the London Blitz
of 1941, his name could have easily
slipped into obscurity.
But instead, Al's stylish singing
and early death have inspired many
other musicians, film-makers and
writers, including Stanley Kubrick,
Ray Davies, Bryan Ferry, Richard E
Grant and Richard Thompson.
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e01 - 2007.12.28 [192-44-S]
1/4. How Al came to Britain and
became a recording artist.
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e02 - 2008.01.04 [192-44-S]
2/4. A look at Al and the dance
band leaders.
1-2 of 4
Replies
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e03 - 2008.01.11 [192-44-S]
3/4. Al the solo singer and a
move to America.
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e04 - 2008.01.18 [192-44-S]
4/4. Al's return to Britain.
3-4 of 4
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e03 - 2008-01-11 R2.mp3
Al Bowlly Britain's First Pop Star - e04 - 2008-01-18 R2.mp3