(1912-2001) a popular
American singing star from the 1930s through many decades. Como
got his start in music by accepting a friend's challenge to audition as vocalist for a
band. He traveled with the
band for many years until it disbanded during
World War II (1939-1945) at which
time he
returned to his
home state of
Pennsylvania to
resume his earlier
profession as a barber. Upon his
return, however, he was offered a
position on a radio show. He accepted and rapidly became famous for his relaxed
style, good looks and his crooning. (Crooning is
singing in a low murmuring manner with the mouth very
close to the microphone; especially when
singing sentimental songs in a
smooth voice). Como became a recording
star of the 1940s and an idol of young girls and women. He appeared in numerous musical films and by the 1950s he had his own television show which ran until the 1960s.