Tony Martin (Born Alvin Morris)
December 25, 1913 – July 27, 2012
Photo by Richi Howell
Tony Martin was a beloved American actor and singer who, over a career that ran from 1933 until his retirement in 2009 appeared in over two dozen films and released some 45 hit records. On par with the likes of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, Martin built a sizable – mostly female – following thanks to his warm baritone croon. Martin was just 10 when he was given a saxophone by his grandmother, and when he got into high school, he formed his first band. He soon joined a local orchestra where he performed alongside future jazz legend, Woody Herman. After graduating from college, Martin moved to Hollywood where he set his sights on acting. Over the next several years, he worked in films with the likes of Fred Astaire and the Marx Brothers. During the late ’30s and early ’40s, Martin made numerous records for Decca and later recorded for Mercury. His hits included “I Hadn’t Anyone Till You,” “It’s A Blue World,” and “I Get Ideas.” After WWII, Martin hosted his own variety show for NBC and went on to star in many popular musicals of the day. In 1948, he married actress Cyd Charisse with whom he stayed until her passing in 2008 – 60 years. Tony Martin retired after 76 years in show business in 2009, and died of natural causes on July 27, 2012. He was 98.
Thanks to Paul Bearer for the assist.
What You Should Own
Click to find at amazon.com
Bill Tapia was arguably the greatest if not longest working ukulele player the world has ever known. Born in Honolulu, HI, Tapia was only 10 when he was entertaining American troops who were stationed in Hawaii during WWI. Before he knew it, Tapia was touring with vaudeville shows and playing on steam ships between Hawaii and the mainland. When the ukulele became all the rage during the ’40s and ’50s, Tapia was the teacher to the stars, tutoring the likes of Shirley Temple, Clark Gable, and 
Norma Zimmer was an American singer who is best remembered as the Champagne Lady for over 22 years on The 
Jake Hanna was a respected jazz drummer who was known for his sense of timing and his ability to play well within either a big band or small combo setting. Over the course of his career, he played with the likes of Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson,