Jazz musician and composer. Born John Philip William Dankworth at 38 Beech Hall Road, Walthamstow (just a few streets away from the plaque). Known as Johnny, he was also an accomplished clarinettist and saxophonist. Married to singer Cleo Laine (1927 - 2025), he trained her to extend her vocal range to over three octaves. Died at the King Edward VII hospital Westminster, just hours before he was due to perform in a concert.
This being a London website we have to direct you to Laine singing 'London Pride' in 1976. Magnificent.
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of www.plaquesoflondon.co.uk
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