Russ Columbo, interpreting the outstanding vocal in this fantastic record, was born in 1908. Despite his early death, he became a famous American singer, violinist and actor. He debuted professionally at the age of 13. He left high school at 17 to travel with various bands around the country. He sang and played violin in numerous nightclubs. By 1928, at the age of 20, Columbo began to participate in motion pictures, including a Vitaphone short in which Columbo appeared with Gus Arnheim and His Orchestra. Eventually, he did obtain some feature work in front of the camera, but he slowed down his activities in cinema to pursue other interests. Columbo tried to run a nightclub for a while, but the venture was unsuccessful. In 1931, he traveled to New York with his manager, songwriter Con Conrad. Conrad secured a late-night radio slot with NBC. This led to numerous engagements, a recording contract with RCA Victor records, and tremendous popularity with legions of mostly female fans. On September 2, 1934, Columbo was shot under peculiar circumstances. As for this delicate rendition, so typical for Columbo's refined style, was recorded in 1931. Piano solo by Nat Shilkret, also conducting the Nat Shilkret Orchestra.
