Victor Bringing Back Billy Murray, Veteran Of 4,000 Recordings Billy Murray, probably the most popular of the old-time vocalists, has come out of a 12-year retirement to record an old favorite, "It's the Same Old Shillelagh," for RCA Victor's Bluebird records. Leonard Joy's orchestra accompanies the singer. Murray started in the early days of records in 1897, and between that time and 1928 he recorded over 4,000 songs. Over 2,000,000 copies of his 'Casey Jones' were sold by Victor, setting a new high in popular records. The increasing popularity of old songs induced Victor to bring Murray out of retirement. He may be the prelude to a greater use of old-time name favorites. Note: Leonard Joy was the musical director, but the record labels credit "Harry’s Tavern Band." Murray's Victor of "Casey Jones" (#16483) sold well, but the seven-digit figure is likely over exaggerated. Source: Variety, August 21, 1940, page 1. |