Turner Layton
Turner Layton, born John Turner Layton, Jr. on July 2, 1894, in Washington, D.C., was an influential American singer, songwriter, and pianist. He was the son of John Turner Layton, a bass singer, music educator, and hymn composer. Layton received his musical education from his father before attending Howard University Dental School. However, after his father's death in 1916, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in music.
In New York, Layton formed a successful songwriting partnership with lyricist Henry Creamer. Together, they composed several popular songs, including the jazz standard "After You've Gone" in 1918 and "Way Down Yonder in New Orleans" in 1922. Their work was featured in Broadway shows such as the Ziegfeld Follies and other productions.
In 1922, Layton teamed up with Clarence "Tandy" Johnstone, forming the duo Layton & Johnstone. They gained significant popularity in England, performing in prestigious venues and becoming a well-known cabaret act. The duo reportedly sold over 10 million records. Layton continued to perform in England after the partnership dissolved in 1935, maintaining a successful career until his retirement in 1946.
Layton passed away on February 6, 1978, in London, England, at the age of 83. His musical legacy includes notable compositions and a significant contribution to the jazz and popular music scenes of his time. His daughter, A'Lelia Shirley, inherited his musical estate and bequeathed the rights and royalties to Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London.
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