Скачать или смотреть Dan Donovan Remembers

Dan Donovan was one of the leading vocalists from the Golden Age of British Dance Bands. He rose to fame as the singer with the Debroy Somers Band (1930-1934) and then joined the BBC Dance Orchestra directed by Henry Hall as successor to singer Les Allen. He stayed as the principal vocalist with the radio band until Henry left the BBC in 1937. Dan then toured as an attraction in his own right, and making records as a solo artist for HMV, before a spell as a bandleader at the Lansdowne House Restaurant in London's Mayfair.


This recording was sent to me many years ago by my friend and No.1 Henry Hall aficionado, the late Harold Kaye., who is mentioned by the presenter, Don Reed. The recording appears to date from 1984, but I cannot find out anything about Don Reed, nor from what programme it comes from. Possibly BBC Radio in Wales? Don's comments and questions were almost certainly recorded at a different time, and edited, using a recording made with Dan, to make this appear an interview. Although Dan doesn't say much, it is good to hear his voice, and thus this recording is a valuable, if brief, contribution to dance band history.


Please note that Don Reed was incorrect in saying that Dan sang on the Maiden Voyage of RMS Queen Mary in 1936. Although Henry Hall was guest conductor, Dan was back in London and broadcasting with the BBC Dance Orchestra.