Spokane is very proud of its most famous son, Bing Crosby. Bing was born in Tacoma, Washington, but grew up in Spokane and attended local schools, including college at Gonzaga University (home of one of the nation’s best basketball teams).
Bing was one of the first huge multimedia stars. He had a great singing voice (which I still enjoy) and was one of the most successful and popular musical artists of the 20th century worldwide. He recorded more than 1600 songs. Bing also made over 70 feature films and won the Oscar for Best Actor in Going My Way.
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Except for the above photo, which is courtesy of Paramount Studios, these photos were all taken at a Bing Crosby exhibit in the lobby of Davenport Hotel in Spokane. I was moved by the simplicity and admiration of the display. The people who founded the hotel were just fans.
Bing visits us every Christmas, courtesy of my old record collection.
“White Christmas” is one of those classic tunes that I can’t imagine anyone doing a better job at performing than Bing. I am curious. Do you play vinyl records (45 or 33 1/3 rpm), CDs, or just downloaded digital files?
Mostly CDs rather than downloads. Still have a varied selection of vinyl records and play them from time to time.
Bing played baseball as a kid and eventually became Vice President of my hometown Pittsburgh Pirates back in the day. A true gentlemen and American icon.