Jimmy Durante - by David Bakish (Paperback)

About the Book

From his humble beginnings as a Coney Island piano player, Jimmy Durante was one of Americas best-loved entertainers for nearly seven decades. Known for his distinctive schnozzle and raspy voice, the multitalented performer became a stage, screen and recording star. Every aspect of Jimmy Durantes career is covered here: his early vaudeville and Broadway days; the 38 movies he made; his radio appearances; the mixture of new and old material he brought to television in the late 1950s; and his work as a singer and composer.

Book Synopsis

From his humble beginnings as a Coney Island piano player, Jimmy Durante was one of America's best-loved entertainers for nearly seven decades. Known for his distinctive "schnozzle" and raspy voice, the multitalented performer became a stage, screen and recording star.

Every aspect of Jimmy Durante's career is covered here: his early vaudeville and Broadway days; the 38 movies he made; his radio appearances; the mixture of new and old material he brought to television in the late 1950s; and his work as a singer and composer.

Review Quotes

"it beats all other Durante books by a nose...staggering amount of information"-Big Reel; "extensive research.... Recommended"-Classic Images; "substantial...Durante's life and career is documented in detail"-The Slide Area; "a must"-The Illustrated Press; "illuminates his struggles and his triumphs on Broadway, and later on radio and television...a 'must' for all those interested in Durante. ...a comprehensive illustrated reference book...a superb book of reference...thoroughly recommended"-The Other Side of Show Business.

About the Author

David Bakish is an English professor at the City University of New York.