Trivia

Had only one gig after leaving the Cityslickers. It was with Eddie Brandt and the Hollywood Hicks, one of a number of Jones spin-off or copycat bands.

An acute drinking problem ended in his being replaced in the Cityslickers Band around 1946 by clarinetist/glugger Mickey Katz. "War Chant" is the last recording by the band that Grayson appeared on.

Spike Jones was quick to showcase Grayson's comic vocal talents and ability to make weird vocal sound effects known as "glugging". The first use of this effect on record is on the tune "Siam".

Became violinist with the Spike Jones and His City Slickers when the group during its early formation in the early 1940s. He became the nominal front man of sorts during the group's three-year engagement as house band for the Jonathan Club. The group called itself Donald Grayson and His Jonathan Club Dance Band.

Was offered a deal to become a contract player for Columbia. Chosen as a replacement for number one cowboy Roy Rogers, he appeared in the oater Dodge City Trail (1936), where he sang a number with Rogers' former cowboy group, the Sons of the Pioneers.

Moved to Hollywood in 1936 and started his own fairly popular band.

Made his professional debut as a singer at the age of 19, and shortly thereafter joined the band of Henry Busse.

The son of Swiss and German immigrants.