Johnny Desmond was a talented vocalist that was popular during the 1940's and 50's. He started off by forming his own singing group in 1939 called the Downbeats. This vocal group quickly caught the attention of Bob Crosby and in 1940, Crosby hired them to work with his band. Shortly after, the band changed their name to the Bob-O-Links.
In mid-1941, Desmond moved on to become the featured vocalist for Gene Krupa's band. He ended up replacing Howard Dulaney and recorded over a dozen sides for Krupa.
In 1942, Desmond made a big life decision and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He eventually became a member of Glenn Miller's Army Air Force Band. Desmond made many, many radio broadcasts being featured on lead vocals while with Miller. He was discharged from the military in November of 1945, shortly after the end of World War II.
The name recognition he achieved while serving with Miller's band helped him solidify a successful solo career after the war. He also starred in quite a few radio shows as well.
You can hear the music of Johnny Desmond right here on Swing City Radio.
Listen to: "Shoo-Fly Pie And Apple Pan Dowdy" by Johnny Desmond from 1946
