Radio doings (Dec 1930-Jun1932)

They Stumbled Upon Rhythm hoped to receive a royal welcome upon peii arrival — so when the train pulled Into (lie station they were not surprised to see the Mayor's Committee and a large crowd on hand. But they were surprised to learn that the reception committee, the crowd, and the fanfare had turned out to greet a prominent political figure on the same train. Somewhat dashed in spirit they eagerly scanned the paper to discover — not even a bare mention of their arrival. So thev sat down and looked at each other in the hotel room. Assuredly, this was no! like New Orleans. But when they completed the six week's engagement it was another storv. Chicago grew conscious of three small girls with haunting voices — and, what was even more greatly in their favor — a Different Interpretation of popular music. After a series of triumphant appearances throughout the Middle West, the girls migrated to San Francisco on January 5, 1929 (another date by Helvetia — alas, she doesn't like to be called bv her full name). There they devoted their talents almost exclusively to radio as highly remunerative sponsored programs made vaudeville appearances very secondary. They did make several movie shorts, the first of which was attended by an amusing incident. The picture was entitled "Close Farmony" — with a farm, as of course you expected — as a setting. The Boswell sisters first broadcast over a nation-wide network as guest artists on the California Melodies program that came from Los Angeles over the Columbia chain. Another Columbia headliner appeared in a guest role on the same program the following week — one Bing Crosby. They are each others favorite radio stars. The girls are entirely unspoiled by success. They are the same goodnatured Connie and Martha and Vet who went to school together in New Orleans. Martha is the spokesman for the three. Connie, however, is the "boss.'" and sings the melody in the trio and the solo numbers with that appealing "low down blue" voice. She actually lives her work, heart and soul, and enjoys discussing it — even interrupting Martha when she has something particularly important or interesting to contribute to conversation. Vet, whose real name is lamentably Helvetia — or so at least it seems to her — is apparently the silent one; or at least it seems so in comparison to the bubbling-over quality of the other two. She just listens, smiles and refers all questions to Martha or to Connie, who Continued from Page 18 will probabl) answer them anyway, if she feels like it. They never sing melody as it is written, but improvise their own melody to the lyrics of the song. They compose a counter melody which thev harmonize Instead of the true tune, which sounds confusing, but can be done t i.e. if you know how). Their classical training can be traced in their singing, for an analysis of their hot rhythms and "'breaks" reveal an orthodox classical beat. This is an unusual and individual factor in their singing. Strange as it may seem, they make their arrangements backward. As Connie explains it: "We put the cart before the horse: that is, we start at the end of a number and work forward, commencing with the second chorus. The very last thing we arrange is the beginning of the first verse. I don't know how we first came to work thisway. It just seemed to happen, and we've been doing it ever since." They never write down their arrangements, but memorize them. They now have more than 300 numbers in their repertoire, for a song once learned is never forgotten by them. The three sit down before a piano, and Martha plays the number through once. In whatever way the music stirs their moods and imagination, they arrange. Each gives her idea, and it is given a fair trial. If unsatisfactory, the next offers her suggestions, and once the effect is agreed upon, each of the girls fabricates her own part. Among their outstanding arrangements are "King's Horses", "Shout, Sisters Shout", "Heebe Jeebies" a n d "Shine On, Harvest Moon." All three are superstitious about planning their affairs in advance. They won't even discuss their plans for the following day. "It's bad luck," says Martha, and the other two nod their heads in agreement. If they do have any plans they keep them mum until the time is up. Vet sews, designs costumes, tap dances and is a talented artist. Her drawings can be seen scattered throughout the four-room apartment. She also has the responsibility of answering all their fan mail, with the exception of personal letters that require an answer from one of the others. Connie has a passion for modeling little figures out of rock-salt, butter and soap which she places in her ice box to harden. Often they tumble into Martha's lap when she opens the door. Connie, who played the cello in the New Orleans symphony orchestra at the age of seven, now prefers to play musical glasses, and there's been more than one crystal set ruined by her. One of their proudest possessions is a document, presented to them by Governor Huev Long, commending them on their work, with the official seal of the state stamped upon it. Martha finds life's greatest pleasure in taking off her shoes upon coming home. Connie loves to lie on the sofa, and Vet derives joy in buying all types of ear-rings. Allow them these — and they'll ask for nothing more. BOYS and GIRLS Are Making Big Spending Money One high school boy is making $6.00 every week working only half hours after school. Another made $19.00 one holiday week. Little girl made $1.25 in one hour. Sell Handi-logs (see page 35 this issue) to your friends and neighbors. Everybody wants one. Every radio owner a prospect. Send 25c for sample Handi-Iog to show and take orders. Start now. Money quick. BYAM PUBLISHING CO.. 1220 Maple Ave., Los Angeles Enclosed is 25c. Send your money-making offer to n nl lake orders RADIO DOINGS Page Thirty-nint