09/26/2025
Happy 103rd Birthday, Ray Anthony! Ray Anthony, born on January 20, 1922, in Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, stands as one of the last living legends of the Big Band era—a golden link to the swing sounds that once defined America’s dance floors. Known as a master trumpeter, bandleader, and entertainer, Anthony first rose to prominence in the early 1940s as a member of the famed Glenn Miller Orchestra. His smooth yet spirited playing style, coupled with an infectious stage presence, quickly made him a favorite among audiences. Following his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Anthony formed his own orchestra, leading one of the most popular postwar big bands. His repertoire was both danceable and memorable, producing enduring hits such as The Bunny Hop, Hokey Pokey, and Mr. Anthony’s Boogie. His television appearances and film cameos, including performances in The Girl Can’t Help It and Daddy Long Legs, cemented his place not just in music but in American pop culture. Throughout the decades, Anthony’s talent and charisma kept him in the spotlight. He collaborated with countless greats, maintained a steady presence on TV variety shows, and even took roles as a musical director in Hollywood. His longevity in the industry is matched only by his dedication to the craft—continuing to play, record, and make public appearances well past his centennial. Now, at 103 years young, Ray Anthony is celebrated not only for his musical brilliance but for the joy, energy, and elegance he has brought to generations of listeners. His trumpet has been the soundtrack to love stories, dance halls, and American memories—a melody that still resonates in the hearts of all who hear it. May this milestone birthday be filled with the same swing, sparkle, and joy that Ray Anthony has given the world for over a century.
