Richard Crooks was a distinguished American tenor whose career flourished in the early to mid-20th century, known for his lyrical voice and musical versatility. Born on June 26, 1900, in Trenton, New Jersey, Crooks became a prominent figure in both opera and popular music, sighting an exceptional range that could convey the subtle nuances of lieder as effortlessly as the grandeur of operatic arias.

His professional debut in 1927 at the Metropolitan Opera as the Duke in Verdi's "Rigoletto" marked the beginning of a stellar two-decade-long engagement with the company, where he became one of their most esteemed artists. Crooks' exquisite recordings, such as "Red Red Rose," "The Great Tenor," and collections like "Richard Crooks: Neapolitan Love Song (Recordings 1924-1933)," showcase the breadth of his repertoire, from heart-warming ballads to the technical demands of operatic performances, captured in "Crooks, Richard: Opera Arias / Songs (1925-1945)." His voice continues to resonate through these recordings, underscoring his legacy as a gifted tenor of his generation. Crooks passed away on September 29, 1972, but he left behind a wealth of recordings that continue to inspire admiration and respect for his artistic talent.

Genres

Irish Ballad

Latest Release

Red Red Rose

Richard Crooks

Album - 18 Tracks - Released December 2, 2012