William Edward Cotton, known as Billy Cotton, was a prominent British bandleader and entertainer born on May 6, 1899, in Smith Square, London. He passed away on March 25, 1969, in Wembley, London. Cotton's career spanned several decades, beginning in the early 1920s and continuing until his death in 1969. He is best remembered as a radio and television personality during the 1950s and 1960s, hosting the popular "Billy Cotton Band Show."

Cotton's musical journey began as a choirboy and later as a drummer. He served in the Royal Fusiliers during World War I, having falsified his age to enlist, and saw action in Malta, Egypt, and Gallipoli. He was later recommended for a commission and learned to fly Bristol Fighter aircraft, flying solo for the first time on the day the Royal Flying Corps became the Royal Air Force.

In 1924, Cotton established the London Savannah Band, which evolved from a conventional dance band to a music hall/vaudeville entertainment group, incorporating humor into their performances. The band featured notable musicians like Arthur Rosebery, Syd Lipton, Nat Gonella, and Ellis Jackson. Their signature tune was "Somebody Stole My Gal," and they recorded extensively for Decca.

During World War II, Cotton and his band toured France with the Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA). Post-war, he launched his successful Sunday lunchtime radio show on the BBC, which ran from 1949 to 1968 and transitioned to television in 1956. Known for his catchphrase "Wakey Wakey," the show became a staple of British entertainment.

Aside from music, Cotton was an accomplished racing driver, finishing fourth in the 1949 British Grand Prix. He was also an amateur footballer, playing for Brentford and Wimbledon.

Cotton married Mabel E. Gregory in 1921, and they had two sons, Ted and Bill Cotton, the latter becoming the BBC's managing director of television. Billy Cotton's contributions to entertainment were recognized with an Ivor Novello award in 1959 and the title of Show Business Personality of the Year in 1962. His legacy endures, with his rendition of "Red Red Robin" played at Charlton Athletic football matches.