One of the UK's most enduring jazz performers, Chris Barber was a pivotal figure
in the UK music for more than 60 years. Born on April 17, 1930, in Welwyn Garden
City, Hertfordshire, he rose to prominence during the 1950s skiffle boom, having
formed a group with Ken Colyer called Ken Colyer's Jazzmen. The lineup included
guitarist Lonnie Donegan (later to become famous in his own right), bassist Jim
Bray, and drummer Ron Bowden, with Chris Barber playing trombone. When Colyer
left, the group rechristened itself The Chris Barber Band. After establishing
themselves on the European ...