James Last (also known as "Hansi", born Hans Last; 17 April 1929 – 9 June 2015) was a German composer and big band leader. His "happy music" made His numerous albums best-sellers in Germany and the United Kingdom. His composition "Happy Heart" became an international success in interpretations by Andy Williams and Petula Clark. According to British Hit Singles & Albums (2006), he is reported to have sold over 100 million albums worldwide.
Last's trademark sound employed big band arrangements of well-known tunes with a jaunty dance beat, often heavy on bass and brass
VIDEO: James Last, his orchestra & singers perform live at the BBC TV Studios, London on 15th October 1976.
VIDEO: James Last, his orchestra & singers perform live at the BBC TV Studios, London on 15th October 1976.
