13 Facts About Harry Barris

Harry Barris was an American popular singer and songwriter.

Harry Barris was one of the earliest singers to use "scat singing" in recordings.

Barris, one of Paul Whiteman's Rhythm Boys, along with Bing Crosby and Al Rinker, scatted on several songs, including "Mississippi Mud," which Barris wrote in 1927.

Harry Barris was born to Jewish parents in New York City.

Harry Barris became a professional pianist at the age of 14.

Harry Barris led a band which toured the Far East at the age of 17.

Harry Barris married Hazelle Thompson in 1925 and they had a daughter, Hazelle Harry Barris, in 1926.

However, a band member who knew Harry Barris suggested that they add him to make a trio and The Rhythm Boys were formed in April 1927.

However, Harry Barris changed his mind and returned to the Cocoanut Grove to complete his contract.

Harry Barris met Loyce Whiteman, who sang with the Orchestra, and married her in 1931.

In 1932, Harry Barris signed a contract to star in six shorts for Educational Pictures, similar to Bing Crosby's launch into films.

An unusual change of pace for Harry Barris was his comedy role in The Fleet's In, as a runty sailor named Pee Wee who perpetrates malapropisms in a surprisingly deep voice.

In 1926, Barris, billed as "Happy Harry Barris," made a solo record performing his own composition, "And She'll Do It For a Long, Long Time", showcasing his talents as a pianist, vocalist, and songwriter.