1. Overview
Robert Eberly (born Robert Eberle; July 24, 1916 - November 17, 1981), known professionally as Bob Eberly, was a prominent American big band vocalist, singer, lyricist, bandleader, and film actor. He is best recognized for his significant association with Jimmy Dorsey's orchestra and his popular duet performances with Helen O'Connell. His younger brother, Ray Eberle, also achieved fame as a big-band singer, notably with Glenn Miller's orchestra. This article details Eberly's life from his early beginnings and family background to his distinguished musical career, personal life, and lasting legacy in the music industry.
2. Early Life and Background
Bob Eberly's early life saw him grow up in a family that included another musically inclined brother, leading to his eventual entry into the professional music scene following a notable amateur victory.
2.1. Birth and Family
Robert Eberle was born on July 24, 1916. Although he was born Robert Eberle, he later slightly altered the spelling of his surname to the homonymous Eberly for his professional career. His family included his younger brother, Ray Eberle, who also became a well-known big-band singer, most notably performing with Glenn Miller's orchestra. Their father, John A. Eberle, engaged in several professions, working as a policeman, a sign-painter, and a tavern-keeper. Another brother, Al, served as a village trustee in Hoosick Falls, New York.
2.2. Early Career and Debut
Eberly's professional journey began when he was hired by the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra in 1935. This opportunity arose shortly after he won an amateur hour contest on Fred Allen's popular radio show. His tenure with the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra began just before Tommy Dorsey departed to form his own musical group. Eberly made his formal debut as a singer in 1937. He also ventured into acting, making his film actor debut in 1942 with a minor role in the American film The Fleet's In.
3. Musical Career and Achievements
Bob Eberly's musical career was marked by significant collaborations, numerous hit recordings, and extensive appearances that cemented his status as a beloved vocalist of the big band era.
3.1. Work with Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra
After the initial formation of the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, Bob Eberly remained a central figure with Jimmy Dorsey and his orchestra. He continued as a fixture with the band until he was drafted into military service late in 1943. The early 1940s were a particularly successful period for the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, which scored a string of hit songs prominently featuring Eberly and Helen O'Connell. Their unique collaboration often involved Eberly singing a slow, romantic baritone rendition of a song, such as "Amapola" or "Tangerine", followed by a lighter, up-tempo reprise performed by O'Connell.
3.2. Solo Career and Broadcast Appearances
After his time with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Eberly pursued a solo career, which included various broadcast appearances. In 1953, he and Helen O'Connell reunited to headline a summer replacement program for Perry Como's CBS television show. The program also showcased Ray Anthony and his orchestra, further demonstrating Eberly's continued presence in the entertainment industry.
3.3. Notable Recordings and Popularity
Bob Eberly recorded the original version of "I'm Glad There Is You (In a World of Ordinary People)" in 1942 for Dorsey's orchestra on Decca Records. This song went on to become a widely recognized jazz and pop standard. His notable recordings include "It's the Dreamer in Me" (with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchestra; 1938), "Green Eyes" (with Helen O'Connell; 1941), "Tangerine" (with Helen O'Connell; 1941), "Bésame Mucho" (with Kitty Kallen; 1944), and "Love Letters in the Sand (Cartas De Amor En La Arena)" (with Enoch Light & His Orchestra; 1957). He was known for singing both English and Spanish songs. In some regions, such as South Korea, he is particularly remembered for his original recordings of English songs like "Let there be love" and "I'm Glad There Is You", as well as the Spanish song "Maria Elena", which all became popular hits.
4. Personal Life
Bob Eberly's personal life included a long-standing marriage and family. He was married to Florine Callahan on January 23, 1940, and their marriage lasted until his death in 1981. The couple had three children: Robert Jr., Kathy, and Rene. His son, Robert Jr., also embarked on a professional singing career. Although talented, Robert Jr. did not achieve the same level of widespread popularity as his father, partly due to the evolving musical landscape and the diminishing popularity of the nightclub performance scene.
5. Later Life and Death
In his later years, Bob Eberly faced health challenges but continued to perform before his eventual passing.
5.1. Health Issues
In 1980, Eberly underwent surgery to have one lung removed. Despite this significant health challenge, he demonstrated resilience and continued to sing, showcasing his enduring passion for music.
5.2. Death
Bob Eberly died on November 17, 1981, at the age of 65, in Glen Burnie, Maryland. His death was attributed to cancer.
6. Legacy
Bob Eberly's legacy is primarily defined by his distinctive baritone voice and his significant contributions to the big band era. His collaborations with Jimmy Dorsey and especially Helen O'Connell produced some of the most memorable and influential recordings of the 1940s, such as "Amapola" and "Tangerine". His original recording of "I'm Glad There Is You" became a lasting jazz and pop song, demonstrating his enduring impact on American popular music. He is remembered as a smooth and romantic vocalist whose style was emblematic of the golden age of big bands.