Peter Dean (manager)

Peter Dean's success in the music business was initially behind the scenes. He discovered and managed many performers, such as Paul Whiteman, Dinah Shore and Peggy Lee. He worked particularly closely with Peggy Lee, and even was instrumental in the songs she chose. She gave him a lot of credit in her book. He continued to manage for about 30 years, when -- at the age of 60 -- he decided that he wanted to record. He closed his Manhattan management firm and started singing 1920's and '30's songs at nightclubs and hotels. He played a Martin baritone ukulele and sang. He was nicknamed "Snake Hips", because of the way he danced while performing. He recorded for a handful of labels in the 1970's and into the 80's. His records were quite good, and he showed a knack for scat singing. He also was supported on his recordings by his niece, Carly Simon...among others. He passed away in 1988.

Selected Discography:

*"Ding Dong Daddy!" -- Project 3 (1972)
*"Four or Five Times" -- Buddah (1974)
*"Only Time Will Tell" -- Inner City (?)
*"Radio" -- Inner City (1983)
*"Where Did the Magic Go?" -- Monmouth/Evergreen (?)

Sources:

Joe Page (in ebay listing for "Ding Dong Daddy!")Liner Notes for all 3 LPs.Michael Lund (music expert)