Today's playlist. For the 27th installment, we have "Anne Shelton".
I bought it at Flash Disc Ranch, my favorite record store in Shimokitazawa.
This is a record store I've been going to ever since I first moved to Setagaya. It's popular because of its amazing point card system, which is valid as long as the store is open. Once you collect 50 stamps, you can buy any number of records under 15,000 yen for half price.
Ann Shelton, the Comfort Songstress of World War II
Ann Shelton OBE (née Patricia Jacqueline Sibley, born November 10, 1923 – died July 31, 1994) is known as a popular British singer who brought courage and hope to soldiers during World War II. She inspired many soldiers through radio broadcasts and live performances at military bases. She achieved success on the UK Singles Chart in the 1950s and 60s, particularly with her 1956 hit "Lay Down Your Arms."
Early life
Anne Shelton was born on November 10, 1923, in Dulwich, South London.
Singer career
In May 1940, at the age of 16, she appeared on the BBC's talent radio show "Monday Night at Eight" and sang "Let the Curtain Come Down." Dance bandleader Bert Ambrose saw her performance and invited her to join his popular band, the Ambrose Orchestra. Her first solo record, "I Can't Love You Any More," was released in June 1940, followed by "Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear to Tread)."
During World War II, Shelton performed at many British military bases, and his radio show "Calling Malta" aired from 1942 to 1947. In 1944, he was invited by Glenn Miller to perform in France, but declined due to other commitments. Miller died in a plane crash during this tour. Shelton also performed with Bing Crosby on the "Variety Bandbox" radio show, where they sang "Easter Parade" together.
Success in the 1950s and 60s
In 1956, Shelton reached number one on the UK Singles Chart with "Lay Down Your Arms." In 1961, her cover of "Sailor" made it into the top 10, and she also participated in the "A Song for Europe" contest that same year. Her entry, "I Will Light a Candle," came in fourth place, but she tried again in 1963 with "My Continental Love," again coming in fourth.
Movie and television appearances
In addition to her singing career, Shelton also appeared in several films, including "Miss London Ltd." (1943), "King Arthur Was a Gentleman," and "Bees in Paradise" (1943). Furthermore, she appeared on "The Anne Shelton Show" from 1958 to 1959, and also on "Ask Anne" in 1961.
Later years and achievements
Shelton was awarded an OBE in 1990 in recognition of her work with the Not Forgotten Association. In 2007, a blue plaque was placed at her residence by the London Borough of Southwark.
Private life
Shelton was married to Lieutenant David Reed of the Navy from 1958 until his death in 1990. She died of a heart attack on July 31, 1994, and was buried in Camberwell New Cemetery in London.
Ann Shelton's voice became a beacon of hope for soldiers during wartime, and her music continues to resonate in the hearts of many people today.
WAITER-U offers not only camping gear, but also a curated selection of music, books, and movies.
I've also created a playlist on Spotify, so please feel free to listen to it in the car on your way to a camping trip.

