Jackie Gleason

While primarily a comedian, starring on stage, screen and television, Jackie Gleason also recorded a number of albums in the 1950s and '60s. He wrote the score for GIGOT, released several ‘mood music’ albums on Capitol Records, and composed a projected ballet. A string of Top 10 U.S. albums in the '50s featured Bobby Hackett and Pee Wee Erwin. Gleason established his persona with several appearances on Broadway, but his greatest legacy stems from the enormously popular television show The Honeymooners, derived from his popular variety show, for which he interestingly wrote the iconic theme "Melancholy Serenade." In 1961, he earned an Oscar nomination for his performance in THE HUSTLER.