Dick Rogers
American singer, comedian, songwriter and pianist (1912–1970)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Richard Rogers (1912–1970) was a singer, comedian, songwriter, and pianist, who wrote the lyrics for "Harlem Nocturne".[1][2][3] He was a member of the Ray Noble Orchestra and the Will Osborne Band.[4]
Dick Rogers | |
|---|---|
Rogers appearing in a 1941 The Morning Call newspaper clipping titled "Empire Ballroom" | |
| Background information | |
| Also known as | "Stinky" Rogers |
| Born | September 23, 1912 |
| Origin | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | 1970 (aged 57–58) |
| Genres | Traditional pop, jazz, comedy, swing, ragtime |
| Occupations | Musician, lyricist, bandleader, songwriter, composer, whistler |
| Instrument | Piano |
| Years active | ~1934–~1955 |
| Labels | Okeh, Columbia, Decca, Varsity, Associated |
| Formerly of | The Ray Noble Orchestra The Will Osborne Band |
Rogers was associated with Will Osborne, a "star crooner" who was on the radio in the 1930s.[2] Osborne's band was on the decline in 1940.[2] Osborne created a "bus and truck vaudeville show", with comedy acts, which did not do well.[2] Dick was hired on as "Stinky" Rogers, doing a singing comedy act.[2] When Osborne moved to Hollywood in 1940, Rogers took over the band.[2] He did well, according to a Billboard review in 1942, who said he "...acquitted himself credibly, as did his orchestra."[3] The magazine called him capable, saying he could sing, compose, play and lead.[3]
Composed music or lyrics
- "Harlem Nocturne" (1939) (with Earle Hagen)[4]
- "Pompton Turnpike" (played by Charlie Barnet) (written with Will Osborne) (1940) [5]
- "Spaghetti Rag" (music by Lyons and Yosco) (1950)[6]
- "Magazines (Are Magic for Lonely People)" (sung by Theresa Brewer) (1958)[7]
- "I Guess I'll Get the Papers and Go Home" (sung by the Mills Brothers, written with Hughie Prince, Hal Kanner) (1946)[8]
- "Would'st Could I But Kiss Thy Hand, Oh Babe" (written with Will Osborne) (sung by "Doghouse" Dale Jones)[9]
- "Between 18th And 19th On Chestnut Street" (written with Will Osborne) (sung by Dale Jones and Dick Rogers) (1939)[10][11]
- Dozens more.