Perry Como, a popular vocalist post-World War II, perfected a laid-back singing style influenced by Bing Crosby and Russ Columbo. His career took off in the mid-'30s with Ted Weems & His Orchestra, leading to a contract with RCA Victor Records in 1943. Como's big break came with the 1945 film A Song to Remember, and his dreamy baritone voice dominated the charts with hits like "Till the End of Time" and "Prisoner of Love."
Transitioning to television in the late '40s, Como found success with the Chesterfield Supper Club and garnered four Emmy Awards. In the mid-'50s, he explored light novelty songs like "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Doo" and "Hot Diggity (Dog Ziggity Boom)." Despite a decline in popularity towards the end of the '50s, Como's career saw a resurgence in the '70s with a world tour and Top Ten hit "It's Impossible." Perry Como passed away on May 12, 2001, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of popular music.