As the fifties dawned, a change in popular music happened quickly. Conservative anti-communist politics and social values combined to drain music of its previous vitality.

The decline of bands made the change all the more easy, with individual vocalists providing the images of clean cut All American pop stars. Although many look back on the fifties as an era of peace and prosperity, it was also a time when racist inclinations became mainstream.

Artists such as those featured in today’s show ruled radio in the first half of the decade, although an awareness of a subculture aimed at a younger audience was starting to foment. Here is what radio sounded like in the days before rock and roll.

Featured tracks include:

You’re Breaking My Heart – Vic Damone

Because of You – Tony Bennett

Route 66 – Nat King Cole

Mona Lisa – Nat King Cole

Cone On-a My House – Rosemary Clooney

Half As Much – Rosemary Clooney

Tennessee Waltz – Patti Page

Music Music Music – Teresa Brewer

Cry – Johnny Ray

The Roving Kind – Guy Mitchell

Cold Cold Heart – Tony Bennett

Goodnight Irene – The Weavers

Third Man Theme – Guy Lombardo