The Happy Gang


(5 stars; 2 reviews)

The Happy Gang was a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation radio lunchtime variety show that ran from 1937 to 1959. The show began on CRCT, a CBC affiliate in Toronto, moved to the CBC network four months later, and ran for 22 years, totaling nearly 4900 broadcasts.

In 1937, CBC Regional Program Director George Taggart was tasked with creating a Monday-through-Friday half-hour variety program to fill the period from 1:00 to 1:30 PM E.S.T. With a tight budget allowing for only four musicians, Taggart chose Bert Pearl as the Master of Ceremonies. The band included trumpeter Robert (Bob) Farnon, violinist Blain Mathe, and organist Kathleen (Kay) Stokes. Herb May served as the show’s first regular announcer, while George Temple was appointed producer. Singer-accordionist Eddie Allen joined in 1938 and remained with the Gang for the remainder of their history, along with Mathé and Stokes.


This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.

Reviews

Hi Grandpa


(5 stars)

Thank you, RMcKay, for uploading this content. Because of you, I was able to hear the voice of my long deceased Grandfather (Barry Wood) who I never had the privilege of meeting. He hosted the Happy Gang in the 50's among other radio activities and also had a show on CFRB called "The Breakfast Club". I would very much love to find more footage of my Grandfather and would be delighted to hear from you should you be able to help me with this endeavor. Please chat any time. Your contribution here is more appreciated than you know.