Who knew that Bing Crosby was such an influence on the early years of recorded music?

This is a fun look at a complicated, generous man and his unusual (for his time) instrument. His smooth, jazzy voice was his inroads to a stellar career, and Giddins focuses on his apex, into the '40s.

At one time, Bing was at the top of the radio, records and movie charts. There had been nobody like him. And he shared his fortunes with friends and family.

Louis Armstrong, Bob Hope, brother Bob - they're all along for the ride. Have a read. ( )