Bing Crosby: Integrated Business Acumen and Passion Across Industries

Key Quotes

"He was an Academy Award winner, a racetrack and racehorse owner, and a businessman with investments across the United States. He was also a singer whose versions of 'White Christmas' and 'Silent Night,' in his rich, soothing baritone, remained popular at the holidays, despite the fact he died nearly 50 years ago."

Kurt Becker highlights Bing Crosby's multifaceted career, emphasizing his success not only as an entertainer but also as a significant figure in business and horse racing. Becker notes the enduring popularity of Crosby's music, underscoring his lasting cultural impact even decades after his death.

"Before long, Crosby and a friend decided they wanted to head to Los Angeles and try their luck full-time in show business. Crosby's mother bought them an outdated jalopy for the trip, and legend has it that the car broke down as the aspiring entertainers were approaching the city. So, Crosby and his friend walked the final two miles into LA."

Kurt Becker recounts Bing Crosby's determined early pursuit of a career in show business, illustrating his ambition and perseverance. Becker shares the anecdote of Crosby and his friend walking the final miles into Los Angeles after their car broke down, demonstrating their commitment to their dreams.

"Taking a break from his hectic schedule in 1935, Crosby attended the races at Santa Anita. He decided he wanted to own racehorses, and the following year, he took it even a step further by helping build a racetrack as a founding member of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club."

Kurt Becker details Bing Crosby's entry into the world of horse racing, showing his transition from spectator to active participant. Becker explains that Crosby's interest evolved from owning horses to co-founding the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, indicating a deeper commitment to the sport.

"'My only regret,' said Crosby, 'is that Don Bingo's win will leave Hope broken-hearted. In fact, I heard his next three programs are ruined.'"

Kurt Becker presents Bing Crosby's playful jab at his friend Bob Hope following a significant horse racing victory. Becker shows Crosby's competitive spirit and his ability to use humor, even in the context of a major win, by teasing Hope about the impact on his radio shows.

"Many years later, in 1965, Crosby would enjoy arguably his biggest thrill as a racehorse owner when he traveled to Ireland and bought a one-third interest in Meadow Court, the night before the Irish Sweeps Stakes Derby."

Kurt Becker emphasizes Bing Crosby's profound excitement as a racehorse owner, particularly with the purchase of Meadow Court. Becker highlights this moment as a peak experience for Crosby, underscoring the significance of the horse and the race in his ownership career.

"Crosby, who died in 1977, made an indelible impression on the American scene. He sold more records than anyone in history until the rise of Elvis Presley. It was said that his singing career was the reason the word 'crooner' was created."

Kurt Becker summarizes Bing Crosby's immense cultural and historical significance in American entertainment. Becker points to Crosby's record sales and the origin of the term "crooner" to illustrate the profound and lasting impact of his music.