American Songbook Blogs

November 29, 1932 – January 4, 1998 John Gary was an American popular singer, gifted musical theater actor and so much more! With an amazing 3 1/2 octave range, John easily shifted from a deep baritone to a lofty high tenor voice. Besides being a “Singer’s Singer” John was a Marine, a boxer, a champion archer, and set records for holding his breath underwater! He also hosted his own television show as a summer replacement for the Danny Kaye Show. Though he enjoyed a marvelous career, in some ways, John came on the scene at the end of the era of great male vocalists – he would’ve been in line to become the next Sinatra or Crosby, but pop music was changing so much in the 1960s and 70s. He probably should’ve been a much bigger star. John was a tremendous interpreter of our American Songbook. Take a listen to John’s version of “Once Upon a Time” or his signature song, “Danny Boy”… – you’re in for a real treat! Happy Birthday John!