Sir Harry Lauder

Scottish singer and comedian Harry Lauder lived here.

Location: 46 Longley Road, Tooting

Description: Edinburgh-born music hall artiste Harry Lauder (1870-1950) lived here at the height of his fame from 1903 to 1911 and was his base when he toured the United States and Australia.

By 1911 the singer and comedian had become the highest-paid performer in the world, and the first British artist to sell a million records. By 1912 he was top of the bill at Britain's first ever Royal Command Performance, in front of King George V.

He was described by Sir Winston Churchill as Scotland's greatest ever ambassador who by his inspiring songs and valiant life, rendered measureless service to the Scottish race and to the British Empire.

Among his most popular songs were Roamin' in the Gloamin, A Wee Deoch-an-Doris, The End of the Road and, a particularly big hit for him, I Love a Lassie. He performed in kilt and full Scottish regalia.

He raised vast amounts of money for the war effort during the First World War, for which he was knighted in 1919.

Themes: Theatre Theatre Theme