James Travis "Jim" Reeves (August 20, 1923 – July 31, 1964)
Reeves, whose biggest hit was 1960’s "He’ll Have To Go", was killed when
the small plane he was piloting crashed near Nashville. He was 39. After
Reaves’ death, his widow continued to release his material well into the
1980s. He is a member of both the Country Music and Texas Country
Music Halls of Fame.
Jim’s last recording session before his death in 1964
Canadian born singer-songwriter Paul Albert Anka
Anka became famous in the late 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s with his
top hit songs like "Diana", "Lonely Boy", and "Put Your Head on My
Shoulder". He wrote such well-known music as the theme for The
Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and one of Tom Jones‘s
biggest hits, "She’s a Lady", as well as the English lyrics for
Frank Sinatra‘s signature song, "My Way" which was originally
a French song.
Edd Byrnes was born Edward Byrne Breitenberger in New York City
Byrnes is best remembered for his starring role in the ABC television series
77 Sunset Strip (1958-1964). He also was featured in the 1978 film Grease
as television teen-dance show host, Vince Fontaine. He recorded the hit
single "Kookie, Kookie — Lend Me Your Comb" with Connie Stevens in
1959.
Jack Paar was asked by NBC to succeed Steve Allen as host of The Tonight Show,
when Allen left the show for prime time. Paar hosted the program until March 30,
1962.
From left: Host Jack Paar, announcer Hugh Downs, and band leader Jose
Melis celebrate a three year old Tonight Show in 1960
