Introduction:
Few entertainers have ever captured the hearts of audiences quite like Perry Como. With his warm smile, soothing voice, and genuine charm, Perry became a beloved figure in both music and television. His effortless style wasn’t an act—it was simply who he was. Whether fans were listening to his recordings or tuning in to his weekly TV show, Perry felt approachable, like an old friend. Throughout his long career, he managed to maintain a rare reputation in the entertainment industry: a true gentleman, admired not only for his talent but also for his kindness.
Born Pierino Ronald Como on May 18, 1912, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, Perry was the seventh of thirteen children and the first in his family to be born in America. Growing up in a household where Italian was spoken, he didn’t learn English until he began school. From a young age, music was a central part of his life. His father, recognizing his son’s natural abilities, worked extra jobs to pay for music lessons. Perry mastered several instruments, including the organ, trombone, and guitar, though he never received formal voice training.
Surprisingly, Perry’s first dream wasn’t to become a star—it was to be the best barber in town. At just 13, he was already cutting hair professionally. Music, however, always found its way back to him. While working at the family barbershop, he would serenade newlyweds with songs, unknowingly setting the stage for his future career.
In 1932, a trip to Cleveland’s Silver Slipper Ballroom changed everything. Perry’s friends encouraged him to sing with a live orchestra, and the bandleader, Freddy Carlone, was so impressed that he offered Perry a job on the spot. With his father’s blessing, Perry joined the group, marking the beginning of his professional singing journey. From there, his career skyrocketed.
By the early 1940s, Perry had transitioned from band singer to solo performer. He signed with RCA Victor in 1943, a partnership that would last an incredible 44 years. During this time, he sold over 100 million records and became one of America’s most beloved crooners, alongside icons like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. His smooth vocals made hits like “Catch a Falling Star” and “Magic Moments” timeless classics.
Television soon came calling, and Perry found his true home in front of the camera. Hosting The Perry Como Show, he became a household name, especially for his beloved Christmas specials, which aired annually for decades. His relaxed style and warm humor made viewers feel like guests in his living room.
Behind the spotlight, Perry’s greatest success was his marriage to Roselle Belanger. The two met in 1929 and wed in 1933, building a loving family together. Their relationship was marked by deep devotion and mutual respect. Perry often credited Roselle as his anchor, the one person who kept him grounded through the highs and lows of fame.
In 1998, after 65 years of marriage, Perry faced his most heartbreaking loss when Roselle died suddenly of a heart attack. For a man who had always valued family above all else, her passing was devastating. Though he continued to share his love through music, a part of Perry was gone forever.
Perry Como passed away in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of grace, humility, and timeless artistry. Today, his music still resonates, reminding us of a man who believed in love, family, and the simple joy of a beautiful song.