Roger Bright
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Roger Bright | |
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| Born | February 12, 1940 New Glarus, Wisconsin |
| Died | 2001 |
| Nationality | American |
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Roger Bright (1940–2001) was an American accordionist and polka musician. He was born in New Glarus, Wisconsin, and began playing the accordion at the age of 12.[1] He formed his first band, the Roger Bright Polka Band, in 1957. The band went on to release over 35 albums, and Bright became one of the most popular polka musicians in the United States. He was known for his smooth, melodic playing style, and his songs were often featured on polka radio stations and in polka dance halls.
Biography
Bright was born in New Glarus, Wisconsin, on February 12, 1940. He was the son of a Swiss immigrant, and he grew up listening to traditional Swiss polka music. He began playing the accordion at the age of 12, and he quickly became proficient at the instrument. In 1957, he formed his first band, the Roger Bright Polka Band. The band released their first album in 1960, and they quickly became one of the most popular polka bands in the United States.
Bright was known for his smooth, melodic playing style. He was also a skilled yodeler, and he often featured yodeling on his songs. His songs were often featured on polka radio stations and in polka dance halls. Bright also toured extensively, and he performed in 33 states, Canada, and Europe.[2]
In 2005, Bright was inducted into the Polka Hall of Fame. He continued to perform and record until his death in 2001.[1]
Legacy
Bright helped to popularize Cleveland-style polka music, and his songs are still enjoyed by polka fans today. He was also a pioneer in the use of the accordion in polka music, and his playing style influenced many other accordionists.[1]
Published works
Bright released over 35 albums throughout his career. Some of his most popular albums include:
- I'll Send Roses (1975)
- Everywhere You Go (1978)
- Come to the Mountain (1982)
- The Best of Roger Bright (1985)
- Polka Party (1990)
Recognition
In 2002, Bright was inducted into the Polka Hall of Fame.[1] He also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Polka Hall of Fame in 2015.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "Roger Bright". www.clevelandstyle.com.
- ↑ "Americana Gazette August/September 2010 by Americana Gazette / Sugar River Productions - Issuu". issuu.com. November 12, 2010.
External links
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