Bea Wain

In the golden age of radio and swing music, few performers captured the hearts of American audiences quite like Bea Wain. A remarkable singer, radio personality, and cultural icon, Wain's career spanned decades and helped define the musical landscape of mid-20th century America. Her distinctive voice and dynamic presence made her a standout performer during the big band era, earning her a special place in the annals of entertainment history.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born Beatrice Ruth Wain on April 30, 1917, in the Bronx, New York, she demonstrated musical talent from an incredibly young age. Her radio debut came at the astonishing age of 6, when she appeared as a "featured performer" on the NBC Children's Hour. This early exposure to broadcasting would set the stage for her remarkable career in entertainment.

Wain's professional musical journey began to take shape in the late 1930s. In the summer of 1938, she made her debut with Larry Clinton at the Glen Island Casino, marking the beginning of her rise to prominence in the music world. Her talent was quickly recognized, and she became a sought-after vocalist in the big band scene.

Rise to Stardom in the Swing Era

Wain's career reached new heights during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Her recordings with Larry Clinton's orchestra were particularly noteworthy. Her version of My Reverie stayed at the top of the charts for an impressive eight weeks in 1938. Her popularity was so significant that in 1939, she was voted Billboard Magazine's Female Band Vocalist of the Year, even beating legendary performers like Ella Fitzgerald.

Her repertoire included several hit songs that became classics of the era, such as "Deep Purple," "Heart and Soul," and "Martha". Interestingly, she was also the first artist to record the now-famous song "Over the Rainbow," though its release was initially forbidden.

Radio and Partnership with André Baruch

Following World War II, Wain's career took an exciting turn when she began working with her husband, André Baruch, as a disc jockey team in New York. They were affectionately known as "Mr. and Mrs. Music" and became a beloved radio duo. Their partnership extended into the early 1980s, when they hosted a syndicated radio recreation of Your Hit Parade.

Wain was highly respected in the music industry. An article in Radio Best magazine noted that she was considered an "accurate picker of hits" and a favorite among songwriters. Her musical intuition and industry connections made her more than just a singer – she was a tastemaker.

Later Life and Enduring Legacy

Even in her later years, Wain continued to perform and captivate audiences. In a 2004 interview, she reflected on her career with pride, noting that she was "still singing pretty good" and had recently performed a series of shows to critical acclaim.

Bea Wain passed away on August 19, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California, at the remarkable age of 100. Her century-long life was a testament to her resilience, talent, and the enduring power of her musical legacy.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• NBC Children's Hour (Early Childhood)
• The Larry Clinton Show (NBC, 1938)
• Monday Merry-Go-Round (NBC Blue, 1941-1942)
• Starlight Serenade (Mutual, 1944)
• Your Hit Parade
• Syndicated Your Hit Parade recreation (Early 1980s)

Recordings

• "My Reverie"
• "Deep Purple"
• "Heart and Soul"
• "Martha"
• "I'm Nobody's Baby" (1940)
• "Do I Worry?" (1941)
• "My Sister and I" (1941)
• "Kiss the Boys Goodbye" (1941)

Vocal Groups

• Lead vocalist of Bea and the Bachelors

Bea Wain's remarkable journey from a child performer to a celebrated big band singer and radio personality represents a unique chapter in American entertainment history.