Lee Denson Biography & Awards

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Artist Info

Biography

A rockabilly singer who reportedly taught Elvis Presley how to play the guitar, Lee Denson is one of rock's little-known pioneers. Active between 1956-1965, Denson, who also recorded under the name Jesse James, is best-remembered for the stellar cast of musicians and vocalists that he featured on his recordings, including Eddie Cochran, Sam "The Man" Taylor, Dorsey Burnette, and Kenny Burrell & the Jazz Guitar Band. Two songs -- "Mississippi Bridge" and "Sixteen States" -- featured the harmonies of Richard and Karen Carpenter, the only commercial recording with Karen singing background vocals. Denson had his greatest success as a songwriter when Elvis Presley recorded his hymn "Miracle of the Rosary." ~ Craig Harris, All Music Guide