Q. For several years I have been singing two songs to my grandchildren. Both are from the mid-’40s. There is a possibility that one, perhaps even two, could have been written by or performed by Johnny Mercer. The titles are The Skunk Song and Ugly Child. My little ones get a real kick out of these two songs and want to learn the words. Can you find the sheet music or perhaps a tape? — Murray Fine, Boca Raton

A. Ugly Child, not to be confused with a jazz instrumental, Ugly Chile, was indeed recorded by Johnny Mercer on Capitol No. 268. The only recording of The Skunk Song that I located was a 1941 recording by Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra, with the vocal by Chuck Petersen and the Pied Pipers (Victor (27621). Both of these recordings (78 rpm) are available at Records Revisited, 34 W. 33rd St., New York 10001; 1-212-695-7155. Perhaps they can arrange to make tapes for you.

Q. Whatever happened to The Singing Lady (1937) on radio, and who was she? — Julie MacDonald, Sunrise

A. Ireene Wicker was The Singing Lady. She was on radio for 20 years starting in 1931, blending stories and songs for children, and was widely acclaimed. Inactive during the ’50s, she resumed her program over radio station WNYC in New York City during the ’60s and early ’70s. Shortly thereafter she came to Palm Beach to live. Ireene Wicker (Hammer) died Nov. 17, 1987.

Q. In the early days of World War II I had a two- record album (78) of Bing Crosby singing the song Ballad For Americans. I believe that Paul Robeson also recorded it. I would like to know if the Bing Crosby version is available. I surely did enjoy it, and would love to hear it again. — Bill Cohen, Sunrise

A. Ballad For Americans was written in 1940 and was performed that same year in the Broadway musical Cabin in the Sky. In 1942 it was featured in the movie Born to Sing. It was indeed recorded by Paul Robeson (Victor) as well as by Bing Crosby (Decca). Both were big hits. A tape of the original two-record album by Bing Crosby is available at Mr. Nostalgia, P.O. Box 26494, Tamarac 33320; tel. 726-5420.

Q. In the middle of the ’40s I recall a record by Harry James — Let Me Up. It was a 78 rpm. Can you locate it for me? It was on the flip side of a big hit by James, but I am sorry to say I have forgotten the name. Hope you can at least tell me the name of that song. — Don Kelly, Fort Lauderdale

A. Not only can I tell you the name of your mystery tune, but I am happy to report that I located the original recording made by Harry James for Columbia (36623) on June 5, 1942. The big hit tune was I Cried for You, with the vocal by Helen Forrest. Let Me Up, which is on the flip side, was written by Harry James. This recording, a 78 rpm, is being held for you at Records Revisited in New York, mentioned previously in this column.

Q. I am a receptionist at a retirement home. Every other Saturday I have a “sing-along” with the residents. We have a lot of fun. However, I started a “name that tune” or name the artist who sang it and made it famous; show tunes like the ones in Oklahoma or Annie, but I am running out of material. Thanks a lot for your help. — Florence Geller, Deerfield Beach

A. I would suggest that you visit your local county library where their Reference Department should be able to help you. You should ask for the following: Popular Music, 1920-1979, by Shapiro and Pollack (a three-volume set); The Complete Encyclopedia of Popular Music and Jazz, 1900-1950 (a four- volume set) by Roger D. Kinkle. Other authors who help would be Brian Rust and Leonard Feather. Inasmuch as these books are for reference only and cannot be removed from the library, you should be prepared to make copies in the library or at least make copious notes. You are to be congratulated for the wonderful world of joy you are bringing to the residents of the home. Nothing compares with the soothing comfort of music.

—- Marvin Randolph’s column answers readers’ questions relating to popular music and jazz of the early 1900s through the late 1940s. Send your questions to Showtime, Sun-Sentinel, 3333 S. Congress Ave., Delray Beach, Fla. 33445.