A BIG band swing singer whose career has spanned half a century is to give one final concert before retiring to Australia.
Dennis Lotis, 79, was making a living as a young singer with one of South Africa's big bands in 1950, when he decided to leave for England.
He arrived with an introduction letter to broadcaster and band leader, Henry Hall who sent him to Ted Heath, who was rehearsing with his band for the Sunday evening concert at the London Palladium.
Lotis (pictured) auditioned with Get Happy, a song which remains his signature tune to this day and was booked for the show within an hour.
Three years later, after a hit recording with Cuddle Me, Lotis became a solo singer, touring the major variety theatres of Britain and the world.
Before retiring to Tasmania, Lotis will perform a farewell concert with the Len Phillips Big Band. Len Phillips, who currently lives in Bexley, has fronted his 16-piece band since 1987.
Dennis Lotis with the Len Phillips Big Band, Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, February 8, 7.45pm, £14, 01322 220000.
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