Dick Rogers
Dick Rogers | |
|---|---|
Rogers appearing a 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 |
| Died | 1970 |
| Genres | traditional pop, jazz, comedy, Swing, Ragtime |
| Occupation(s) | 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 |
Richard Rogers (1912–1970) was a singer, comedian, songwriter and pianist, who wrote the lyrics for "Harlem Nocturne". He was a member of the Ray Noble orchestra and the Will Osborne band.
Rogers was associated with Will Osborne, a "star crooner" who was on the radio in the 1930s. Osborne's band was on the decline in 1940. Osborne created a "bus and truck vaudeville show", with comedy acts, which did not do well. Dick was hired on as "Stinky" Rogers, doing a singing comedy act. When Osborne moved to Hollywood in 1940, Rogers took over the band. He did well, according to a Billboard Magazine review in 1942, who said he "...acquitted himself credibly, as did his orchestra." The magazine called him capable, saying he could sing, compose, play and lead.