Raymond Stanley Noble, born on December 17, 1903, in Brighton, Sussex, England, was a distinguished English jazz and big band musician. Noble was a multifaceted artist, serving as a bandleader, composer, arranger, radio host, television and film comedian, and actor. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music and gained recognition early in his career by winning a competition for the best British dance band orchestrator in 1927. By 1929, he led the New Mayfair Dance Orchestra, a studio band under His Master's Voice, which included top musicians of the era.

Noble's compositions became emblematic of the British dance band era, often referred to as the "Golden Age of British music." He collaborated closely with vocalist Al Bowlly, producing timeless songs such as "Love Is the Sweetest Thing," "Cherokee," "The Touch of Your Lips," "I Hadn't Anyone Till You," and his signature tune, "The Very Thought of You." His song "Goodnight, Sweetheart" became a number one hit in the United States.

In 1934, Noble moved to New York City, where he found success with his American band, performing at the prestigious Rainbow Room. His band included future stars like Glenn Miller and Claude Thornhill. Noble also ventured into Hollywood, appearing in films such as "The Big Broadcast of 1936" and "A Damsel in Distress," often playing comedic English roles.

Noble's influence extended beyond music; he was a radio comedian and later transitioned these roles to television and film, working with acts like Edgar Bergen and the comedy duo Burns and Allen. Despite disbanding his orchestra in 1937, Noble's compositions continued to resonate, becoming jazz standards and earning him a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1996.

Ray Noble passed away on April 2, 1978, in London, England, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to be celebrated for its elegance and timeless appeal.