English musicians born in 1908
Here are 11 famous musicians from England were born in 1908:
John Mills
John Mills (February 22, 1908 North Elmham-April 23, 2005 Denham) a.k.a. Lewis Ernest Watts Mills, Sir John Mills, Johnny, Johnny Mills or Sir John Mills CBE was an English actor. His children are called Hayley Mills, Juliet Mills and Jonathan Mills.
John Mills grew up in Suffolk and began acting in his teenage years. He made his stage debut at 16 and went on to have a successful stage career before breaking into film in the 1930s. He starred in many popular films throughout his career, including "Goodbye, Mr. Chips," "Great Expectations," and "Ryan's Daughter," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Mills was a well-respected actor in the UK and was knighted in 1976 for his contributions to British theatre and film. In addition to his successful career, Mills was also a devoted family man and remained married to his wife Mary Hayley Bell, a playwright and novelist, until her death in 2005, just months before his own passing.
Mills enlisted in the British Army during World War II and served as a captain in the Royal Engineers. After the war, he returned to acting and continued to work in film, television, and theatre. Mills became known for his ability to portray characters with quiet strength and his charm on and off the screen made him a beloved public figure. He also wrote several memoirs, including "Up in the Clouds, Gentlemen Please," about his time in the Royal Air Force during World War II. In his later years, Mills became involved in various charities, including the Downs Syndrome Association, for which he served as president. He passed away in 2005 at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain's most beloved actors.
In addition to his successful acting career, John Mills supported various charitable causes throughout his life. He was a patron of the Tory Reform Group, a group dedicated to modernizing the British Conservative Party, and was a supporter of The Royal Theatrical Fund, a charity that helps people who have worked in the entertainment industry. Mills was also an advocate for people with disabilities and supported several organizations working towards their welfare.
Mills was highly regarded for his achievements on stage and screen, and was awarded numerous accolades throughout his career. He received a BAFTA Fellowship in 1985, and was awarded a British Film Institute Fellowship in 1991. In 2002, he received a lifetime achievement award from the Screen Actors Guild in the United States.
Mills' three children, Hayley Mills, Juliet Mills, and Jonathan Mills, all followed in their father's footsteps and pursued careers in the entertainment industry. Hayley Mills became a popular actress in her own right, starring in movies such as "Pollyanna" and "The Parent Trap." Juliet Mills also became an actress, appearing in television shows such as "Nanny and the Professor" and "Passions." Jonathan Mills became a film producer and director.
Overall, John Mills was a deeply talented actor and a cherished public figure whose contributions to British theatre and film have left a lasting impact.
Throughout his career, John Mills appeared in more than 120 films and received critical acclaim for his performances. Some of his other notable films include "Morning Departure," "Ice-Cold in Alex," "Tunes of Glory," and "The Family Way." Mills was also a talented stage actor and appeared in many productions, including "Flare Path," which was written by his wife Mary Hayley Bell. He received a Tony nomination for his performance in the Broadway production of "Ross." Mills also worked in television and was the lead in the popular series "The Zoo Gang."John Mills' contributions to British film and theatre have been honoured in many ways. In addition to his knighthood, he was named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1960 and received a Fellowship from the Royal Society of Literature in 1979. The John Mills Theatre in Ipswich, Suffolk, was named in his honor, and he has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Today, Mills is remembered as one of Britain's greatest actors, and his work continues to be celebrated by audiences all over the world.
Mills was also an accomplished writer and published several autobiographical books which chronicled both his acting career and his experiences during World War II. His books include "The First 100 Years Are the Toughest" and "Memoirs." Mills was also a talented painter and his artwork was exhibited in several galleries around the world. He was an avid collector of cars and owned several classic vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce which he drove until his 90s. Mills was known for his humble and gracious personality and his love for his fans. He often took time to sign autographs and meet with fans after his performances. Mills' contributions to British theatre and film made him an enduring icon, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of actors.
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A. L. Lloyd
A. L. Lloyd (February 29, 1908 London-September 29, 1982 Greenwich) also known as A.L. Lloyd or Lloyd, A. L. was an English singer and musician.
His most important albums: Leviathan!, English Drinking Songs, Bold Jack Donahue / The Banks of the Condamine, Blow Boys Blow and The Bird in the Bush: Traditional Erotic Songs. His related genres: Folk music.
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Magnus Pyke
Magnus Pyke (December 29, 1908 Paddington-October 19, 1992) otherwise known as Magnus Alfred Pyke was an English scientist and presenter.
He was best known for his work in the field of nutrition and for presenting popular science programs on television. Pyke was born in Paddington, London in 1908 and was educated at Cambridge University where he studied natural sciences. After completing his studies, Pyke worked as a research chemist for several companies before becoming director of studies in natural sciences at the University of Sussex. He was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and a member of the Royal Institution. Pyke's popular TV shows, such as "Don't Ask Me," "Brainstorm" and "The Great Egg Race," made science accessible and entertaining to a wide audience. He had a unique presenting style and a passion for science that inspired many. Pyke passed away in 1992 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy as an innovative scientist and a great communicator of science.
In addition to his work as a scientist and presenter, Pyke was also an author, writing several books on scientific topics which were aimed at a popular audience. His books included "The Viking Space Age," "How to Communicate Science," and "The Facts of Life." Pyke was known for his lively and engaging style of writing, making complex scientific concepts accessible to people with little or no scientific background. He was also an advocate for science education and public understanding of science, and was involved in a number of organizations dedicated to promoting science education and awareness. Pyke was married twice and had six children. He was a colorful and charismatic figure, known for his distinctive bow ties and bushy eyebrows, and was much beloved by the British public for his enthusiasm and passion for science.
Pyke's contributions to the field of nutrition were significant, and he was particularly interested in the role of food additives and preservatives in modern diets. He advocated for greater transparency and regulation in the food industry, and his research helped to shed light on the potential health risks associated with certain food additives. Pyke was also a vocal supporter of renewable energy and was involved in efforts to promote sustainable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. Later in life, he became increasingly concerned with the impact of human activity on the environment and was an early advocate for measures to address climate change. Overall, Pyke's legacy as a pioneering scientist, engaging communicator, and advocate for social and environmental issues has made him an enduring figure in British popular culture.
Pyke's interest in nutrition stemmed from his belief that people's health was directly affected by what they ate. He conducted research on various food additives and preservatives, and his work contributed to the development of new regulations governing the use of additives in food. He was also a proponent of whole foods and a balanced diet, and he believed that many of the health problems faced by people in modern societies could be traced back to poor dietary habits.
Pyke's passion for science and his ability to communicate complex ideas to a wide audience made him a popular TV presenter. His programs were engaging and accessible, and he had a knack for making science exciting and fun. His show "The Great Egg Race," which challenged contestants to build contraptions using eggs, was particularly popular and helped to inspire a new generation of young scientists.
Pyke's legacy has been recognized in a number of ways, including the establishment of an annual lecture series in his name, the Magnus Pyke Memorial Lecture, which is hosted by the University of Sussex. He was also awarded the OBE in 1985 for his services to science communication. Pyke's work continues to influence scientists and science communicators around the world, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of public engagement in science and the need for science to be accessible to all.
In addition to his work in nutrition and science communication, Magnus Pyke was also a talented musician. He played the violin and was a member of several orchestras throughout his life. Pyke once said that his love of music was a key part of his scientific work, as it helped him to understand patterns and structures in the natural world. He also believed that music had a powerful role to play in promoting social cohesion and understanding. Pyke's wide-ranging interests and passions reflect his dedication to the idea that science and the arts are intimately connected, and that a broad and diverse education is key to understanding the world around us.
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Max Wall
Max Wall (March 12, 1908 Stockwell-May 21, 1990 Westminster Hospital) otherwise known as Maxwell George Lorimer was an English comedian and actor. His children are called Martin Lorimer, Maxine Lorimer, Michael Lorimer, Melvin Lorimer and Meredith Lorimer.
Wall began his career in entertainment as a professional wrestler, but later transitioned to comedy performances. He was recognized for his eccentric physical comedy, often performing with exaggerated facial expressions and poses. Wall's comedic talents ranged from music-hall performances and film appearances to television appearances and pantomimes. He was also known for his collaborations with other notable comedians, including Tony Hancock and Peter Sellers. Despite experiencing significant success throughout his career, Wall was known for his humility and genuine love for performing. He continued to perform well into his 70s, and remains a beloved figure in British entertainment history.
In addition to his successful career in entertainment, Max Wall was also a talented artist, specializing in painting and sketching. He exhibited his artwork at various galleries throughout his lifetime, and even published a book of his drawings titled "Max Wall's Sketchbook". Wall was also known for his distinctive fashion sense, often sporting a trademark trilby hat and waistcoat. In his later years, he became increasingly involved with charity work, particularly in support of children's hospitals. Wall suffered a stroke in 1988, which led to his retirement from performing. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 82 due to complications from pneumonia. Despite his decades-long career in entertainment, Wall remained a private person and rarely gave interviews or spoke publicly about his personal life. Nevertheless, his impact on British comedy and entertainment continues to be celebrated today.
Max Wall was born into a family of entertainers, with his father and grandfather both being performers. He began performing professionally at a young age and eventually made his way to London's West End theaters. Wall was well-known for his portrayal of the character Professor Wallofski, which he brought to life in various productions over the course of his career. He was also praised for his performances in the film version of "A Kid for Two Farthings" and the television series "Steptoe and Son." Wall received numerous accolades during his career, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Comedy Awards in 1990. His legacy continues to be honored through tribute performances and other forms of recognition in the UK.
In addition to his on-screen work, Max Wall also had a successful career as a stage performer, appearing in a range of productions including musicals and pantomimes. He was particularly known for his show-stopping, high-energy performances and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique style of humor. He also had a talent for writing, having penned several scripts for his own stage performances.
Despite his long and successful career, Max Wall was known for his unassuming nature and down-to-earth personality. He was highly respected by his peers and was known for his generosity and kindness towards others. Many of his colleagues and fans remember him fondly as a warm and welcoming presence who was always eager to share his love of performance with others.
Today, Max Wall is remembered as one of the most talented and unique performers of his era. His masterful comedic timing, physical dexterity, and creative flair continue to inspire new generations of artists and entertainers. Whether through his groundbreaking performances on stage and screen or his beautiful artwork, Max Wall remains a beloved figure in British entertainment history.
Max Wall's interest in performing began at a young age, as he grew up watching his father and grandfather perform on stage. His mother was also a singer, and would often take him to see shows in the West End. Wall's early interest in comedy came from his fascination with the silent film stars of the era, particularly Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. He began incorporating physical comedy into his own performances, experimenting with exaggerated facial expressions and comedic timing.
In addition to his acting and comedy work, Max Wall was also a skilled musician. He played several instruments, including the piano, accordion, and banjo, and often incorporated music into his stage shows. He also released several albums of his music throughout his career.
Throughout his life, Max Wall remained dedicated to his craft, often committing hours of practice and preparation to his performances. He was known for his perfectionism and attention to detail, and would often spend hours working on his comedic timing or choreography for a single routine.
Despite his success and acclaim, Max Wall remained humble and dedicated to his art. He continued to perform almost up until his death, never losing his passion for entertaining audiences. Today, his legacy lives on in the countless performers he inspired and the enduring impact he had on British comedy and entertainment.
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George Weldon
George Weldon (June 5, 1908 Chichester-August 17, 1963) was an English conductor.
He was born in Chichester, West Sussex, England on June 5th, 1908. Weldon began his musical career at a young age and was appointed as an assistant conductor of the BBC Theatre Orchestra in 1932. He went on to work with numerous orchestras throughout his career, including the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the London Mozart Players.
Weldon was known for his enthusiastic and energetic conducting style, which allowed him to bring out the best in his musicians. He also had a particular interest in contemporary classical music and was known for championing the works of British composers such as Benjamin Britten and William Walton.
In addition to his work as a conductor, Weldon was also an accomplished composer. His compositions, which included chamber music, orchestral works, and choral pieces, were well-received during his lifetime.
Weldon passed away on August 17, 1963, but his contributions to the world of classical music continue to be celebrated.
Despite his achievements, Weldon's conducting career was largely overshadowed by his contemporaries, such as Sir Adrian Boult and Sir John Barbirolli. However, his influence on the British music scene was significant, especially for his support of contemporary music. Weldon was a generous mentor to many young aspiring musicians, and he also held a number of teaching positions at various institutions, including the Royal Academy of Music. After his death, the George Weldon Prize was established in his honour to recognise outstanding contributions to British music.
Weldon was particularly renowned for his interpretations of works by Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven. He believed in staying true to the composer's intentions and was known for his attention to detail, ensuring that every member of the orchestra was playing with precision and accuracy. Weldon's commitment to authenticity was especially evident in his performances of baroque music, which he approached with a sensitivity and skill that was rare for his time.
In 1956, Weldon assumed the position of Principal Conductor of the City of Birmingham Orchestra. Under his leadership, the orchestra flourished, and his innovative programming and commitment to contemporary composers brought new life and energy to the classical music scene in Birmingham. Weldon's passion for contemporary music was particularly evident in his performances of works by 20th-century composers such as Igor Stravinsky, Dmitri Shostakovich, and Arnold Schoenberg.
Offstage, Weldon was known for his genial personality and his love of cricket. He was a keen sportsman and was often heard discussing the latest cricket match with colleagues and friends. Despite his success as a conductor and composer, Weldon remained modest and unpretentious, and he was greatly respected by his peers and colleagues in the music industry.
Today, Weldon's contributions to the world of classical music are widely recognised, and he is remembered as one of the most talented and innovative conductors of his time. His legacy continues to inspire budding musicians and conductors around the world, and his commitment to authenticity, innovation, and mentorship remains a shining example for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in the world of music.
Throughout his career, George Weldon was also recognized for his efforts in promoting classical music beyond the concert hall. He frequently took his orchestras on tour to schools and community centers, bringing classical music to audiences who might not have otherwise had the opportunity to experience it first-hand. He was also a regular commentator on BBC radio, using his platform to educate the public about different genres of classical music and the importance of supporting emerging composers.
In addition to his musical achievements, Weldon was also deeply committed to his family. He was married to his wife, Sheila, for over 20 years, and they had two children together. Despite the demands of his career, Weldon always made time for his family, often taking them on tour with him when possible.
Weldon's legacy continues to be celebrated by musicians and fans alike. His innovative programming, commitment to contemporary music, and passion for authenticity and mentorship continue to inspire and guide generations of musicians. Today, the George Weldon Prize remains a prestigious award in the world of British music, honoring the memory of one of the country's most talented and dedicated conductors.
Another important aspect of Weldon's career was his dedication to promoting music education. He recognized the importance of nurturing young talent and was a frequent guest conductor at youth orchestras and music festivals throughout the UK. He also founded the Birmingham Festival Youth Orchestra, which gave talented young musicians the opportunity to perform alongside experienced professionals. Weldon's commitment to music education helped to inspire a new generation of performers and conductors, and his legacy continues to influence music education programs to this day.
Despite his modesty, Weldon received numerous accolades during his career, including an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 1952 for his contributions to music. In 1963, he was awarded the City of Birmingham's highest honor, the Freedom of the City, just months before his untimely death.
In conclusion, George Weldon was a gifted conductor, composer, and educator who left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. His commitment to authenticity, innovation, and mentorship, as well as his passion for bringing classical music to wider audiences, made him a beloved figure in the British music scene. Today, his legacy continues to be celebrated and his influence can be seen in the work of musicians and music educators around the world.
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Gladys Ripley
Gladys Ripley (July 9, 1908-December 21, 1955) was an English singer.
Her most recognized albums: Cello Concerto / The Dream of Gerontius.
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George Linstead
George Linstead (January 24, 1908-December 28, 1974) was an English , .
chemist and pioneer in the field of gas-liquid chromatography. He was born in Manchester, England and received his education at the University of Manchester. After completing his PhD, Linstead worked at several institutions including the University of Liverpool and University of Cambridge.
In 1941, Linstead joined the Royal Society of Chemistry and became a Fellow in 1945. During World War II, he worked as a consultant for the British government on chemical warfare. After the war, he turned his attention to gas-liquid chromatography, developing the technique and making significant contributions to its application.
Linstead was also an accomplished writer, publishing numerous articles and books on organic chemistry, gas chromatography, and chemical education. He received several honors during his lifetime including the Davy Medal in 1963 and was elected to the Royal Society in 1951. Linstead died on December 28, 1974 in Farnham, Surrey.
Linstead's work on gas-liquid chromatography helped to revolutionize analytical chemistry, allowing for the separation and identification of complex mixtures with greater precision and accuracy. His research also paved the way for advancements in the fields of biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. In addition to his scientific contributions, Linstead was a dedicated mentor and teacher, training numerous students and young researchers in the field of chemistry. Even after his death, his legacy continued to inspire and guide the work of many chemists around the world. Today, Linstead is remembered as one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century, whose groundbreaking research has had a lasting impact on the world of chemistry and beyond.
Linstead's contributions to the field of gas-liquid chromatography were numerous and significant. He developed key components of the analytical technique, including the use of polar stationary phases and the principle of selectivity in separating mixtures. His work also led to the development of new separation methods in the field, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which allowed for even greater precision in identifying and quantifying chemical compounds.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Linstead was also known for his commitment to chemical education and public communication of science. He was a popular lecturer and writer, and his books on organic chemistry and gas chromatography were widely used as textbooks in universities around the world. He was also a regular contributor to popular science magazines and was known for his ability to explain complex scientific concepts in a clear and accessible manner.
Linstead's legacy continues to be celebrated by the scientific community, with numerous awards and prizes named in his honor. The George Linstead Memorial Award, established by the Chromatographic Society in 1975, recognizes outstanding contributions to gas chromatography and related fields. His work continues to inspire new generations of chemists and researchers to push the boundaries of analytical chemistry and explore new applications of gas-liquid chromatography in fields such as medicine, forensics, and environmental monitoring.
Despite his pioneering and groundbreaking contributions to the field of chemistry, George Linstead remained humble and committed to his research until his last days. He was known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and insistence on rigor in scientific research. His reputation as a leading chemist and educator, coupled with his passion for public science education, cemented his legacy as both an intellectual giant and an influential public figure. Linstead's impact on the world of chemistry continues to be felt to this day, and his success in advancing gas-liquid chromatography paved the way for countless technological advancements in the 21st century.
Aside from his development and contributions to gas-liquid chromatography, George Linstead also worked on other areas of organic chemistry such as the structure and mechanism of reactions in small-ring compounds, particularly cyclopropanes, episulfides, and cyclopropenes. He also pioneered the use of molecular oxygen for the epoxidation of olefins, which became a widely used technique for the synthesis of epoxides. In addition, Linstead served in various capacities in the scientific community, including being a member of the editorial board of the Journal of the Chemical Society and Chemical Reviews. He was also a founding member of the International Symposium on Column Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography and was appointed as its first chairman. Linstead's dedication to research and education in chemistry has made a lasting impact on the field and his contributions continue to be studied and developed to this day.
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Quentin Crisp
Quentin Crisp (December 25, 1908 Sutton-November 21, 1999 Chorlton-cum-Hardy) also known as Denis Charles Pratt was an English writer, illustrator, actor, art model and raconteur.
His discography includes: , , and .
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Owen Brannigan
Owen Brannigan (March 10, 1908 Annitsford-May 9, 1973) was an English singer.
He was a bass-baritone known for his performances in operas, oratorios, and concerts. Born in Annitsford, Northumberland, Brannigan began his career as an engineer before pursuing music. He studied at Newcastle University and the Royal College of Music in London. Brannigan made his professional debut in 1942 as Colline in "La bohème" and quickly established himself as a leading performer of comic opera roles, particularly in the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. His notable roles include Sergeant of Police in "The Pirates of Penzance," Don Alfonso in "Cosi fan tutte," and Falstaff in "The Merry Wives of Windsor." He was also a regular performer on radio and television. Brannigan was known for his warm and engaging stage presence, as well as his rich and resonant voice.
He was a popular guest artist with major orchestras and was sought after by conductors such as Sir John Barbirolli and Sir Malcolm Sargent. In addition to his operatic and stage work, Brannigan was also an accomplished recitalist, known for his interpretations of traditional British songs and ballads. He made several recordings throughout his career, including an acclaimed version of "The Mikado" with the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company. Brannigan retired from performing in 1971 due to ill health and died two years later at the age of 65. He is remembered as one of the most beloved and versatile British singers of his generation.
In addition to his work in opera, Owen Brannigan was also a respected interpreter of folk music. He was particularly known for his renditions of Northumbrian songs, such as "Blaydon Races" and "Keel Row," which he frequently performed in concerts and on recordings. Brannigan was also active in music education, teaching at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1972 for his services to music. After his death, the Owen Brannigan Scholarships were established in his memory to support young singers from the North East of England.
Brannigan's legacy also includes his collaboration with conductor and composer Benjamin Britten. They worked together on several productions, including the world premiere of Britten's opera "Billy Budd" in 1951. Brannigan played the role of Dansker in the opera and received great praise for his performance. He also appeared in the premiere recording of the opera under the direction of Britten himself. Another notable collaboration was his work with the composer William Walton. Brannigan appeared in the world premiere of Walton's opera "Troilus and Cressida" in 1954, playing the role of Pandarus. He also recorded Walton's song cycle "Anon in Love" with the composer at the piano. Brannigan's contribution to the arts was recognized posthumously with the establishment of the Owen Brannigan Trust, which provides support for operatic and choral activities in the North East of England. His recordings continue to be popular and his performances are remembered with great fondness by music lovers around the world.
In addition to his collaborations with Benjamin Britten and William Walton, Owen Brannigan worked with other notable composers such as Ralph Vaughan Williams and Michael Tippett. He was a champion of English language opera and performed in the world premiere of Vaughan Williams' "The Pilgrim's Progress" in 1951. Brannigan also appeared in Tippett's opera "The Knot Garden" in 1970. He was known for his ability to bring humor and humanity to his roles, even in serious operas. Brannigan's dedication to his craft and his warm personality made him a beloved figure in the world of music both on and off the stage. He once said, "I'm not concerned with being the best singer in the world, but I do want to be the best Owen Brannigan."
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Barry Gray
Barry Gray (July 18, 1908 Blackburn-April 26, 1984 Guernsey) otherwise known as John Livesey Eccles, Gray, Barry, John Jr., John Livesey, Gene Durant, Martin Jerbourg or John Livesey Barry Gray was an English composer, musician, music arranger, conductor and screenwriter. He had one child, Simon Gray.
His most important albums: Thunderbirds, Captain Scarlet, UFO, Thunderbirds Are Go, Joe 90, Space: 1999, Thunderbirds 2, Stand By for Action!" : The Music of Barry Gray, Thunderbird 6 and Stand by for Adverts. Genres he performed: Electronic music and Martial music.
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Nat Gonella
Nat Gonella (March 7, 1908 London-August 6, 1998 Gosport) otherwise known as Nat Gonella and His Trumpet, Gonella, Nat, Nat Gonella and his Georgians or Nathaniel Charles Gonella was an English singer, bandleader, trumpeter, author, military officer and actor.
Related albums: Nat Gonella & His Georgians and Essential Nat Gonella. Genres he performed: Dixieland.
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