 He began studying architecture at the University of Pennsylvania but dropped out to become a professional singer.He began singing part-time in the Yiddish theatre, minstrel shows and vaudeville while working as a furniture salesman.After moving to New York City in 1924, he appeared regularly in vaudeville, joined the "Blossom Time" touring company and appeared in various New York amateur revues, where he was seen by William S. Paley who offered him a 15-minute CBS radio program.