Born in a small Pennsylvania mining town, Perry started out as a barber with his own business. He sang professionally with a band for the first time in 1933, while on holiday in Cleveland, Ohio -- the result was an invitation to join them. In 1936, he sang with the Ted Weems band until its break-up in 1942.

Perry was just thinking of giving up show business and returning to his barber shop, when RCA unexpectedly came to him with a recording contract. He would now be a solo singer instead of a band's vocalist -- in line with the trend at that time when crooners were beginning to replace the 'big band sound' as the most popular form of music.

In 1943, he began making records, hit following hit. It has been estimated that in the average year he sells over 4 million records!

Perry's cabaret appearances in nightclubs and theatres made a tremendous impact on audiences and in 1944, his film making career began, followed closely by radio shows and television series. He was one of the first recording artists to have his very own weekly TV programme which was the first of the American TV shows to be seen on a regular basis in Britain. His good looks, easy manner and sense of humour combined with his sincere singing style to make him a 'natural' for TV.

This double album features some very special Perry Como favourites. Mostly, the mood is romantic and his intimate interpretations of the lyrics are warmly appealing, whether it's an oldie like "Carolina Moon", "You'll Always Be My Lifetime Sweetheart' or one of his biggest selling singles such as "Juke Box Baby", Perry swings along easily on "Fly Me To The Moon', "The Sweetest Sounds" and "My  Favourite Things". All in all, this double album shows Perry at his versatile best -- superbly singing just for you.