(1904 - 77) US singer and songwriter. Bing Crosby was the first vocalist to take advantage of advances in electronics in the early thirties and developed a new singing style, earning him the reputation of being the first "crooner" (singer of popular songs in a low sentimental voice). He became internationally famous as a singer and comedian in films and was the star o f a popular radio variety show in the 1940s. —Staff Status II Glossary, Approved late Sept. 1990