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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZENNIS, Skinnay(b Robert Ennis, 13 Aug. '09, Salisbury NC; d 3 June '63, Beverly Hills CA) Singer, bandleader. Founder member of Hal Kemp band '25-38; formed own band in Hollywood with arr. by Gil Evans, Claude Thornhill early '40s. Sang and did comedy on top radio shows, incl. long residency with Bob Hope; appeared in many films; led service band WWII. Famous breathless singing style; best-known record with Kemp "Got A Date With An Angel' became theme of own band, title of MGM LP mid-'50s. Residency at Statler- Hilton Hotel L.A. from '58. Choked to death on a bone in a restaurant. |