Ray Dorset
Raymond Edward Dorset, born on March 21, 1946, in Ashford, Middlesex, England, is a renowned British guitarist, singer, and songwriter, best known as the founder of the band Mungo Jerry. Dorset's musical journey began at the age of 11 when he formed The Blue Moon Skiffle Group, which included Phil Collins on drums. He later played with bands such as The Buccaneers and The Concords, performing alongside The Rolling Stones at The Station Hotel in Richmond.
In 1968, Dorset formed the group Good Earth, which later evolved into Mungo Jerry. The band achieved international fame with their 1970 hit "In the Summertime," which sold over 23 million copies worldwide. Dorset composed many of the band's hits, including "Baby Jump" and "Lady Rose." He also wrote "Feels Like I'm in Love," a UK number one hit for Kelly Marie.
Dorset maintained a solo career, releasing the album "Cold Blue Excursion" in 1972 and collaborating with Peter Green and Vincent Crane in the blues outfit Katmandu in 1983. He also contributed music to British TV shows like "Wizbit" and "Prospects."
Despite the band's fluctuating lineup, Dorset remains the frontman of Mungo Jerry, continuing to record and perform globally. Known for his massive sideburns and afro, Dorset currently resides in Bielefeld, Germany, with his wife and two sons. His life and career have been documented in the biography "Beyond the Summertime."