Vaughn Monroe, the bandleader and singer who rose to prominence in the
1940s with the theme song "Racing with the Moon," died Monday in a
hospital here in Stuart, Fla. He was 62 (sic He was 61).
Monroe underwent stomach surgery two weeks
ago. His wife, Marian, said he became ill after returning from an
engagement in Louisville, Ky. She said he had been bleeding internally.
Monroe, who had lived in Stuart for several
years, performed 10 months out of the year at night clubs and special
events around the country.
Monroe sold millions of records during his career. In addition to "Racing
with the Moon," his hits included "There, I've Said It Again," Ballerina"
and "Ghost Riders in the Sky."
For eight years during the 1940s his band was featured on the popular
radio program, "Camel Caravan."
He was one of the first major artists to enter the lucrative field of
television commercials and for 15 years was known as "The Voice of RCA."
Monroe was born in Akron, Ohio. At the age of 15 he was playing with bands
in Western Pennsylvania. In 1937 (sic) he formed his own band and
within 14 months was booked into New York.
Monroe's condition had worsened after the emergency surgery and earlier
Monday Mrs. Monroe issued an appeal for blood donors.
Monroe's two daughters, Candice and Christina, were also present when he
died.
