Al Jolson Full Name: Asa Yoelson Profession: Jazz Singer and Silent Actor Nationality: American Lithuanian Born: May 26, 1886 Birthplace: Seredžius, Kovno Governorate, Russian Empire Generation: Lost Generation Star Sign: Gemini Died: October 23, 1950 (aged 64) Historical Events 1912-04-17 1st unofficial gold record (Al Jolson's "Ragging The Baby To Sleep") 1922-02-11 "April Showers" by Al Jolson hits #1 1925-01-07 Musical "Big Boy" with Al Jolson premieres in NYC 1927-10-06 "The Jazz Singer", directed by Alan Crosland, starring Al Jolson and May McAvoy, released, 1st film with a soundtrack (Honorary Academy Award 1928) Famous Actors Eddie Redmayne Gregory Peck Michael Biehn Famous Singers Bob Geldof Natalie Cole Vince Gill