Johnnie Ray Sings #1

Whilst Johnnie Ray was in the UK in March 1959, appearing again on the London Palladium TV show and heading another Saturday Spectacular he recorded six editions of his one and only UK TV series, Johnnie Ray Sings. In addition to filming the eight TV shows he had to record and album and a single. Accompanied by Jack Parnell and his orchestra Ray’s weekly singing guest was West End and later Hollywood favourite Shanni Wallis. Ray had two singers to choose from to co-star with. Anne Shelton had already been given her own show, so Shanni Wallis was chosen. The show didn’t embarrass its host by engaging him in gags, comedy skits or novelties, leaving him to do what he does best. Another one-off edition of the show was broadcast in March 1960 followed by another Palladium appearance on TV. This is part one of only four surviving episodes.