Perry Como Relaxed in Suit
Perry Como, a name synonymous with smooth vocals and easy listening, often gets overlooked in discussions about the greatest singers of the 20th century. Born Pierino Ronald Como in 1912, this iconic crooner left an indelible mark on American music history. While some might only recall his novelty hits or Christmas songs, delving deeper into Perry Como Songs reveals a treasure trove of musical artistry, showcasing his exceptional talent and the enduring appeal of the Great American Songbook. It’s time to re-examine the legacy of Perry Como and explore why his music continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
Frank Sinatra himself, a titan of the industry, acknowledged Perry Como’s influence. Sinatra admitted that Como’s success with Ted Weems Orchestra spurred him to venture out on his own. This speaks volumes about the quiet power and appeal Perry Como possessed. If Sinatra, known for his confidence and ambition, felt the need to compete with Como, it’s a clear indication of the significant impact Perry Como songs had on the musical landscape of the time. Yet, paradoxically, some of Perry Como’s most commercially successful songs have inadvertently overshadowed the depth and breadth of his artistic contributions.
Many remember Perry Como for catchy, lighthearted tunes like “Hot Diggity (Dog Ziggity Boom)” and “Papa Loves Mambo.” These hits, while popular, represent only a sliver of his musical output. Similarly, his later ballads such as “Temptation” and “It’s Impossible,” though commercially successful, sometimes leaned towards sentimentality. However, judging Perry Como solely on these tracks would be a disservice to his true artistry. It’s important to remember that many popular vocalists of that era recorded similar novelty songs, a common practice in the music industry. The real magic of Perry Como songs lies in his understated delivery and the effortless grace he brought to every performance, especially evident in his album cuts and deeper tracks.
The genius of Perry Como’s style lies in its smoothness, a quality distinct from the slickness of some of his contemporaries. Think of Dean Martin’s suave persona, and then consider Como’s relaxed, confident approach. Perry Como songs exude an effortless quality, much like a seasoned dancer who makes complex moves appear simple. He was a master of understated performance, relying on natural talent and years of practice rather than overt displays of vocal gymnastics. This effortless charm is a key element in the enduring appeal of Perry Como songs.
Beyond the music, Perry Como’s personal life contributed to his enduring image as “Mr. Nice Guy.” His 65-year marriage to Roselle Como and his focus on family over relentless touring cemented this reputation. Unlike many stars of his era, Como prioritized his television show, recordings, and family life, famously avoiding club appearances for 26 years during his prime. A 1957 Look magazine article even questioned, “Perry Como: Is He Really Mr. Nice Guy?” The answer, it seemed, was a resounding yes. This genuine warmth and integrity resonated with audiences and became intertwined with the perception of Perry Como songs themselves.
Born into a large Italian immigrant family in Pennsylvania, Perry Como’s early life was marked by hard work and humility. From sweeping floors at a barbershop at the age of ten to becoming a barber himself at thirteen, Como contributed significantly to his family’s finances from a young age. This background instilled in him a strong work ethic and a down-to-earth persona that remained with him throughout his career. Even after achieving fame and fortune, Perry Como remained grounded, a quality that shone through in the sincerity of Perry Como songs. The story of the “singing barber” is not just a marketing myth; it’s a testament to his genuine roots and the journey that led him to a singing career.
Perry Como truly hit his stride in the 1950s with The Perry Como Show. This television platform provided him with a consistent audience and allowed him to showcase his musical talents beyond just hit singles. During this period, Perry Como recorded a series of albums for RCA Victor that represent some of his best work. Albums like So Smooth, We Get Letters, Saturday Night With Mr. C, Como Swings, and Young at Heart showcased the breadth of Perry Como songs and his ability to interpret the Great American Songbook with his signature style. While Frank Sinatra was exploring concept albums, Perry Como was creating consistently enjoyable and commercially successful albums that offered a more relaxed and accessible sound.
To truly appreciate Perry Como songs, one must delve into these album cuts. “Gypsy in My Soul,” from Saturday Night with Mr. C, perfectly encapsulates his style. With its light orchestration and Como’s effortless vocal delivery, the song is pure joy. Another gem, “Toselli’s Serenade,” demonstrates his ability to convey emotion with subtlety. While Mario Lanza’s operatic rendition is powerful, Como’s understated version from 1966 resonates more deeply with the song’s melancholic lyrics. These less-known Perry Como songs reveal the depth and artistry that often get lost in discussions focused solely on his biggest hits.
Perry Como’s on-screen presence mirrored his vocal style – relaxed and inviting. Though his movie career was brief, television was his perfect medium. His warm, inoffensive demeanor made him a welcome presence in living rooms across America. A 1954 Life magazine poll even declared him the most desirable potential spouse among young women, highlighting his widespread appeal and wholesome image. This relatable and comforting persona was integral to the success of Perry Como songs and his enduring popularity.
Even in a duet with a young Brenda Lee on The Perry Como Show in 1961, his gentle and paternal nature is evident. Despite Brenda Lee’s nervousness, Como’s relaxed demeanor and even a deliberate lyric flub helped put her at ease. This clip, readily available on YouTube, offers a glimpse into his warm personality and his ability to connect with fellow performers.
Upon his death in 2001, RCA Records acknowledged his remarkable career with a simple yet powerful tribute: “50 years of music and a life well lived. An example to all.” This epitaph perfectly captures the essence of Perry Como and his enduring legacy.
While musical tastes evolve, and louder, more flamboyant styles have gained prominence, the understated elegance of Perry Como songs remains timeless. The building where The Perry Como Show was once filmed ironically became Studio 54, a symbol of a very different era. Today, Perry Como songs might be heard most frequently during the holiday season with his classic rendition of “Home for the Holidays.” However, his contribution to music extends far beyond Christmas tunes.
As we celebrate the centennial of his birth and witness a resurgence of interest in the Great American Songbook, thanks to artists like Michael Bublé and Rod Stewart, it’s the perfect time to rediscover the magic of Perry Como songs. For those seeking genuine warmth, effortless vocal talent, and timeless melodies, Perry Como remains the quintessential “Mr. Nice Guy” of music, and his songs continue to offer comfort and joy to new generations of listeners.
