The A&P Gypsies

The A&P Gypsies was a radio musical series that aired starting in 1924, hosted by Harry Horlick, who had experience with gypsy folk music from Istanbul. Born on July 20, 1896, in Tiflis, Russia, Horlick became a prisoner of war during World War I but eventually reached the United States, performing in cafés in the 1920s. The six-piece ensemble gained attention on New York's WEAF and began broadcasting sponsored by the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company (A&P) on March 17, 1924.

The show transitioned to NBC in 1927, initially airing for an hour on Mondays, then changing formats through the years, finally settling into a half-hour program on the Red Network in 1932. Prominent announcers included Phillips Carlin and Milton Cross. A&P capitalized on the show's popularity by hosting events at the 1933 Chicago World's Fair, where they attracted thousands of listeners to the A&P Carnival featuring various entertainment.

As the show evolved, the ensemble expanded into the 25-piece A&P Red Circle Orchestra, including a singing quartet featuring Frank Parker, who later gained fame on other radio shows. Notable guest stars included Frank Munn, Kate Smith, and Jessica Dragonette. The series concluded on September 7, 1936, as A&P shifted focus to a new partnership with Kate Smith.

Post-series, Horlick recorded numerous albums under Decca, creating music that was noted for its quality. Horlick passed away in July 1970, but his music has been preserved through CD transfers and can be found in various collections celebrating light music from the 1930s.