In late 1926, singers
Bing Crosby;
Al Rinker; and singer/songwriter, arranger, and pianist
Harry Barris formed a vocal trio called
Rhythm Boys. The group performed as the featured vocalists of the most popular band of the 1920s,
the Paul Whiteman Orchestra, and can be heard on many of his recordings, including the hit songs "My Blue Heaven" and "Ol' Man River." After appearing with
Whiteman in the 1930 film King of Jazz, the
Rhythm Boys stayed on the West Coast and joined up with
Gus Arnheim & His Orchestra for radio performances. Following this, they performed at L.A.'s famous Cocoanut Grove until
Bing Crosby went solo.
–
Joslyn Layne, Rovi