Del Sharbutt

American radio announcer with a big, bold voice who also wrote and performed music. Born 16 February, 1912 Cleburne, Texas Died 26 April, 2002 Palm Desert, California (90 years old). Married to singer Meri Bell. Father of Christian songwriter and musician M.D. Ridge. Sharbutt attended Texas Christian University, initially planning to study law. After he became involved in drama and music there, however, he changed his career plans. He came to New York at age 22 and quickly became successful. He was announcer for "The Amos & Andy Show", "The Jack Carson Show", "Meet Croliss Archer", "Your Hit Parade", and many others. As a songwriter, he charted once, with the song "Silver and Gold" by Pee Wee King in 1942 (co-written by Bob Crosby & Henry Prichard)--it rose to #18 overall and #5 on the country charts. As a spokesman for Campbell's soups, Mr. Sharbutt originated the commercial line ''Mmm, mmm good.''