The Rhythm Boys were an American male singing trio consisting of Bing Crosby, Harry Barris and Al Rinker. Crosby and Rinker began performing together in 1925 and were recruited by Paul Whiteman in late 1926. Pianist/singer/songwriter Barris joined the team in 1927. They made a number of recordings with the Whiteman Orchestra and released singles in their own right with Barris on piano. They appeared with the Whiteman orchestra in the film King of Jazz, in which they sang "Mississippi Mud", "So the Bluebirds and the Blackbirds Got Together", "A Bench in the Park", and "Happy Feet". They are best remembered for launching Crosby's solo career, one that would make him the greatest song charting act in history and one of the most influential entertainers of the twentieth century.
Left to right: Harry Barris, Bing Crosby, and Al Rinker
The Rhythm Boys performing "So the Bluebirds and the Blackbirds Got Together" in King of Jazz
Paul Whiteman Orchestra - Motion Picture, June 1930
The Rhythm Boys (Bing Crosby, Al Rinker and Harry Barris) during their one-song reunion in 1943
Harry Lillis "Bing" Crosby Jr. was an American singer, actor, television producer, television and radio personality, and businessman. The first multimedia star, he was one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century worldwide. Crosby was a leader in record sales, network radio ratings, and motion picture grosses from 1926 to 1977. He was one of the first global cultural icons. Crosby made over 70 feature films and recorded more than 1,600 songs.
Crosby c. 1940s
Crosby aged nine
Crosby (middle) with The Rhythm Boys in c. 1929-30
Crosby in 1932