James Last

James Last, also known as Hansi, was a German composer and big band leader of the James Last Orchestra. Initially a jazz bassist, his trademark "happy music" made his numerous albums best-sellers in Germany and the United Kingdom, with 65 of his albums reaching the charts in the UK alone. His composition "Happy Heart" became an international success in interpretations by Andy Williams and Petula Clark.

17 April 1929

Born on the same birth day (17 April): Andrea Gritti • Chad Hedrick • Chris Thompson (runner) • Jean-Baptiste Accolay • Jinho • Kimberly Elise • Liz Phair • Marguerite Bourgeoys • Neville McNamara • Nigel Emslie, Lord Emslie • Todd Lickliter • William Holden

Born in the same month (April 1929): André Previn • Christos Sartzetakis • George Steiner • Jane Powell • Joe Gallo • Maurice Strong • Mukhran Machavariani • Nina Ponomaryova • Richard Mitchell