Perry Como: The Gentleman Crooner Who Sang Straight From the Heart
In a golden age filled with larger-than-life voices and dazzling personalities, Perry Como stood out not by shouting louder but by singing softer. A man of effortless charm and genuine humility, he was once described as “the man who invented casual.” And yet behind his relaxed smile was a tireless work ethic, a devotion to family, and a career that spanned over 60 years — from barbershop dreams to international stardom.
A Humble Beginning in Canonsburg
Pierino Ronald “Perry” Como was born on May 18, 1912, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, the seventh son of a seventh son — considered a sign of luck in Italian tradition. He was the first of 13 siblings born on American soil, and from a young age, he took his role in the family seriously. At just 10 years old, Perry started working in a local barbershop, eventually opening his own and earning more than his father had at the mill.
Though music was always in his heart — often singing and playing guitar during downtime — Como’s early life was built on duty, humility, and responsibility, especially when his father became too ill to work.
From Barber Chair to Bandstand
Perry’s entry into music came almost by accident. While vacationing in Cleveland, he auditioned for the Freddy Carlone Band and landed a job making just $28 a week. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was the start of something special.
He later joined the Ted Weems Orchestra in 1936, doubling his income and sharpening his stage skills. Still, the demands of touring clashed with his deep desire to be present for his growing family. When the band disbanded in 1942, Perry hoped to return to barbering — but his wife Roselle encouraged him to keep going. He did. And the world would never be the same.
The RCA Victor Years and the Rise to Stardom
In 1943, Como signed with RCA Victor, beginning a remarkable 44-year relationship with the label. He recorded exclusively with them until 1987, making him their longest-lasting artist. His music — warm, relaxed, and melodic — resonated deeply with audiences. Songs like “Catch a Falling Star”, “Don’t Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes”, and “Magic Moments” became household favorites.
Even fellow crooners admired him. Dean Martin said listening to Perry was like “borrowing a cup of sleep,” while Bing Crosby called him “the man who invented casual.” Perry once joked that he felt like he was copying Bing when he first got into television — but fans knew his gentle presence was all his own.
Hollywood & Television: From Struggles to Success
Perry’s attempts at film stardom were modest. He appeared in movies like “Something for the Boys” (1944), “Doll Face” (1945), and “Words and Music” (1948), but he openly admitted acting wasn’t his strength. In fact, he asked to be released from his studio contract in 1947.
Television, however, proved to be his natural home. Beginning with The Chesterfield Supper Club and later The Perry Como Show, he became a staple of American living rooms. His easy manner, warm smile, and velvety voice made him one of TV’s most beloved figures. Even when technical disasters struck — like when only one of six cameras worked — Como took it in stride. Audiences didn’t mind. They loved him all the more for it.
The Songs He Refused to Sing
Despite the popularity of fun tracks like “Papa Loves Mambo” and “Hot Diggity (Dog Ziggity Boom)”, Perry found them embarrassing. Early in his career, he didn’t have the freedom to choose his material. But once he gained control, he deliberately left these songs out of his concerts.
Even his most requested song, “Ave Maria,” was never performed live. He felt it was too sacred for a television broadcast — a testament to his reverence and principles.
A Love That Endured a Lifetime
Perry met Roselle Belline at a cookout, and from the moment he sang “More Than You Know”, his eyes never left hers. They married in 1933 and remained together for 84 years until Roselle’s sudden passing in 1998 at age 84. Perry was devastated.
Together, they raised three children — Ronnie, David, and Terri — and lived a life of quiet devotion. Roselle once said, “He was the most gentle and humble man I ever met.” Perry called her his anchor.
Final Years and Legacy
In his later years, Perry endured health struggles, including a severe knee injury from a stage accident and battles with bladder cancer and Alzheimer’s. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 12, 2001, just shy of his 89th birthday. He was buried next to Roselle in Palm Beach, Florida.
Though family tensions emerged over his estate, his legacy as a singer — and as a man — remained untouched. Fellow performers like Steve Lawrence said Perry didn’t have an enemy in the world. To his daughter Terri, he was always “just Dad.”
Honors and Achievements
Few artists achieved what Perry Como did. He received three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame — one each for radio, television, and music. He also earned:
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Five Emmy Awards
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Christopher and Peabody Awards (1956)
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Kennedy Center Honor (1987)
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Television Hall of Fame induction (1990)
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Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumously, 2002)
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Long Island Music Hall of Fame (2006)
A Voice That Endures
Perry Como once said his only regret was not spending more time with his family. But his music, his values, and his grace continue to echo through generations.
He didn’t chase fame. He didn’t court controversy. He simply sang — and in doing so, he gave the world peace, love, and a bit of himself.
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