Eric Coates (1886-1957) is perhaps the most familiar name associated with British light music, with his memorable tunes including the openings to the BBC's In Town Tonight, Desert Island Discs and The Forsyte Saga as well as the theme from the Dam Busters film. In many ways, Coates' story is the story of British light music, and this study offers a fascinating insight into the heyday and decline of the British light music tradition. Michael Payne provides an indispensable insight into the man and his music.