Hylton (1892-1965) was a pioneer of British dance bands and led what many regard as the premier European show band of the 1920's and 1930's. He appeared all over continental Europe while recording prolifically. In 1929 alone, Jack Hylton and his Orchestra sold more than three million records and gave 700 performances. Hylton was famous both for presenting symphonic concert arrangements and for his impressive stage effects. The band was strong vocally and included over the years such singers as the ever reliable Sam Browne, Pat O'Malley, Alice Mann, Denny Dennis, Dolly Elsie (Jack's sister), June Malo, Bruce Trent, and Americans Dick Murphy as well as the vocal group that Jack discovered and brought to Europe - The Swingtette. Using Paul Whiteman's records as a model, he gradually moulded the Orchestra into an impressive musical unit. He concentrated his efforts on touring while occasionally appearing in several West End shows. By 1926, Jack Hylton and his Orchestra were well established and made their very first broadcast. Between 1927 and 1938 the band made 16 European tours and was extremely popular on continental Europe. In 1932, Jack Hylton was awarded the French Legion of Honour for his services to music. The band recorded in Paris and in Berlin. In the mid-1930's, Jack formed a band for his first wife, Ennis Parkes, which toured as Mrs Jack Hylton and her Band which toured with a fair amount of success. In 1940, Jack Hylton decided to disband as the armed forces began to claim his musicians and he concentrated on his managerial business activities. This fabulous record (obviously loved by its owners as it is rather worn) was made in 1930.