Jay Wilbur
British bandleader (1898–1968)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
James Edward Wilbur (1898–1968) was a British bandleader and prolifically recorded musician identified with and influential in the era of British dance band music.[1]
1898
Jay Wilbur | |
|---|---|
| Born | Wilbur Blinco 1898 Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England |
| Died | 1968 (aged 69–70) Cape Town, South Africa |
| Genres | Jazz Swing music Big band British dance band |
| Occupation | Dance bandleader |
| Labels | Rex, Dominion Records, Crown, Imperial, Eclipse |
Wilbur was born Wilbur Blinco in 1898 in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.[2] He became recording director for Dominion Records[3] in 1928, but left Dominion shortly before its demise, and became recording manager for the Crystalate Manufacturing Company.[4] With his own name and under many pseudonyms,[5] his recordings appeared on a variety of labels, including Imperial, Eclipse, Rex and Crown.
He broadcast for the BBC in the 1930s, often featuring guest artists such as Fats Waller.[6] In 1941, he appeared as himself in the film Hi Gang!.[7] His dance band recordings often featured a young Vera Lynn on vocals, and he later accompanied Lynn on her solo releases.[8]
Jay Wilbur and His Band performed extensively for Allied military service members during World War II. He is known for recording established tunes while rendering them in foxtrot style.[9]
Wilbur died in Cape Town, South Africa, in 1968.[10]