Kenny Bass



Kenny Bass (1922 – 1987), born Peter Bastasic Jr., was the leader of the Polka Poppers orchestra from 1951 to 1966. His primary instrument was the upright bass, but started with the guitar. Additionally, Bass was in radio broadcasting for many years. Popular songs of his include “Dancing Doll”, “Polka Poppers”, and “Checkersville”.

Career
After serving in the U.S. Navy as a radio man in the Pacific, Kenny Bass began his broadcast career in 1948 with a daily polka show on station WSRS. He was a member of Eddie Habat’s band in the late 1940s. In 1951, he formed the Polka Poppers orchestra, making many recordings until 1966. Kenny brought many Cleveland-style musicians to stardom, including Dick Sodja, Frankie Mauer, Bob Timko, Ron Sluga, Dick Flaisman, among others.



Discography
Studio albums/LPs


 * Polka Lovers' Time (1957)


 * Toe Tappin' Polkas (1958)


 * Dancing Doll Polkas (1959)


 * Polka! Polka! Polka! (1960)