During the years of 1961-1964, millions of Americans tuned in to their televisions each week to Sing Along With Mitch, an NBC musical variety show, hosted by music industry heavyweight, Mitch Miller. As Mitch and his orchestra played a variety of popular music, audiences could follow a bouncing ball on the screen that moved in time with the song’s superimposed lyrics. The show, which also featured singer Leslie Uggams, the singing Quatro Sisters and pianist Dick Hyman, is fondly remembered by many, and credited with the invention of what would later become karaoke.
Sadly, Mitch Miller passed away a few days ago, on July 31, 2010, at the age of 99. During his long and prosperous career, he found success as a recording artist, conductor, record producer and the head of A&R for Columbia Records, helping to introduce artists such as Johnny Mathis, Tony Bennett and Aretha Franklin. He also landed his own #1 hit in 1955, with “The Yellow Rose of Texas.” He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000.
Were you one of those kids whose family loyally tuned into Sing Along With Mitch each week? Share your memories with us as we pay tribute to this iconic television personality that entertained millions over the years. We’ll leave you with a classic clip from his unforgettable show:
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