John Benson Brooks

It is surprising indeed that the songwriter behind fluffy Americana such as "You Came a Long Way from St. Louis," written with lyricist Bob Russell, would wind up penning a tune entitled "Sirhan's Blues," not to mention an entire musical suite entitled "Alabama Concerto." The career of John Benson Brooks is intriguing, his skilled craftsmansip evident as his music's aesthetic content undergoes an inspiring journey. He started with the Randy Brooks Orchestra, contributing arrangements and also providing them for the groups of Les Brown and Tommy Dorsey. Lyricist Eddie DeLange was an important collaborator when it came time to sit down at the piano and make up a song. "Just as Though You Were Here" was a smash for Tommy Dorsey's band with vocals from one Frank Sinatra and the Pied Pipers.

"You Came a Long Way from St. Louis" was originally recorded by Ray McKinley and his orchestra in...

Read more

John Benson Brooks Albums

2 records