Ken Darby, born on May 13, 1909 in Nebraska, was a talented composer and choral director known for his work on some of the most iconic films in Hollywood history. From a young age, Darby showed a natural talent for music, and he quickly honed his skills in singing, composition, and arrangement.
One of Darby's first big breaks came when he provided the vocals for the Mayor of Munchkinland in the beloved classic film, The Wizard of Oz, in 1939. This marked the beginning of Darby's successful career in the entertainment industry, as he soon became a sought-after choral director and vocal coach.
One of Darby's most notable achievements was his three Academy Award wins for Best Music, Scoring of a Musical Picture, for his work on The King and I, South Pacific, and Porgy and Bess in the late 1950s. His choral group, The Ken Darby Singers, also gained fame for providing backing vocals on Bing Crosby's original recording of "White Christmas" in 1942.
Ken Darby was not only a talented musician but also a devoted husband. He signed over the rights to his composition for the Elvis Presley hit "Love Me Tender" to his wife, Vera Matson, showcasing his love and support for her own musical pursuits. Darby's dedication to his family and his passion for music were always at the forefront of his life.
Ken Darby's influence in the music industry extended far beyond his own compositions and arrangements. He was Marilyn Monroe's vocal coach on films like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and There's No Business Like Show Business, helping to shape the iconic star's singing performances. Darby was also a fan of author Rex Stout's detective novels, which inspired him to write The Brownstone House of Nero Wolfe in 1983.
Ken Darby's contributions to the world of music and film continue to be celebrated and remembered today. His talent, passion, and dedication to his craft have left a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.