Doing a little more research about James Last, it's a pretty interesting story.
Like Joni, he started with piano lessons at an early age (5). Although he ultimately descended into the realm of dance-cheese, he was a jazz bassist in his teens and voted as best in the country for three years running (1950-52). He put out his first record, "Non-Stop Dancing" in 1965. 50,000,000 records later, he's second only to Elvis in terms of records sold. Still, after hearing this tape from 1974, I was glad to say that I hadn't heard of him! :~) Bob NP: Days of the New, "Cling"
