Rat Pack

[natalie_1982]

Where did the term 'rat pack' come from for the style/ culture of that kind of music music?

[andy hughes]

The Rat Pack was a loose band of Hollywood personalities headed by Humphrey Bogart, and including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Junior, Dean Martin and Peter Lawford. The main protagonists are well known - Lawford, an English actor was tagged on becuse of his connection to American 'royalty' - the Kennedys - he was JFK's brother-in-law, which made him useful company for Sinatra who liked to think he moved in such circles. One night, during a late night drinking session, Lauren Bacall, Bogart's wife, happened upon the worse-for-wear crew and advised them that they resembled a 'rat pack', and the label stuck. On Bogart's death, Sinatra took over nominal leadership of the group, although he always preferred to refer to them as The Firm' or more often 'The Organisation'. The easygoing group friendship was extended to live shows - each guesting on the others' TV shows and Las Vegas caberet appearences. Even when these degenerated into drunken run-throughs, including disgustingly racist taunst against Davis, the American public still lapped up the notion that they were party to some private stars' club. Times, and tastes, have changed, and the Rat pack were of their time, and no-one would get away with that approach to entertainment today.

[natalie_1982]

Wow thanks for the indepth answer!  Very interesting as always andy :o)

[andy hughes]

You're very welcome - as always.

A x