Denny Beckner

American singer, songwriter, entertainer and bandleader. Born in Huntington, West Virginia, on April 1, 1912. Died on July 24, 1976, in Mobile, Alabama (64 yeras of age). Active in the 1940s and 1950s. During World War II, the USO sponsored Denny Beckner and his orchestra and singers, Jimee June and Dick Baldwin on a tour of bases including the Aleutian islands, Canada and Alaska, presenting a 90-minute show of laughter and music. Some of his shows were rebroadcast as Spotlight Bands programs on the Armed Forces Radio System from places such as the National Press Club in Washington D.C., the United States Naval Receiving Station in Norfolk and the Army Air Base in Richmond. Denny was a comedian and antic performer, involving audiences in his show by persuading patrons into limbo dancing and conga lines. Beckner co-wrote (with Blue Steele) the band’s signature song, “You Can Take My Heart.”