Bing Crosby, Gone Fishin'

In a unique career spanning more than half a century, Harry Lillis “Bing” Crosby (1903-1977) often recorded with other leading entertainers. Retrospective’s Gone Fishin’ is a superb compendium of 53 of these collaborations with no fewer than 33 of the “buddies” who have shared recordings with him and who have all added lustre to the Crosby legend. The whole fishing expedition is lent a happy symmetry by opening and closing with Louis Armstrong. First joining forces in 1936 on Pennies From Heaven, they were still matching each other’s contrasting vocal cords 24 years later in Way Down Yonder In New Orleans. Along the way is an extraordinarily star-studded collection of “buddies”, from Bing’s pre-solo role with Paul Whiteman’s Rhythm Boys in 1930, through such partners as Bob Hope, Johnny Mercer, Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra and Rosemary Clooney. Bing had particular success with famous harmony groups, and The Andrews Sisters, The Mills Brothers and others are well represented. From the Crosby clan itself wife Dixie Lee (The Way You Look Tonight) and eldest son Gary (Sam’s Song etc.) join in the fun. Altogether this is a fabulous catch to land from one enjoyable fishing trip!