Lonnie Donegan was a British musician and singer-songwriter, born on April 29, 1931, in Glasgow, Scotland. He is best known for popularizing the genre of skiffle, a style of music that blends folk, jazz, and blues. Donegan's energetic performances and catchy songs made him a key figure in the British music scene during the 1950s. His most famous hit, "Rock Island Line," released in 1956, helped spark a skiffle craze in the UK. Donegan's influence extended to many artists, including The Beatles and Eric Clapton, who were inspired by his innovative approach to music. He continued to perform and record until his passing on November 3, 2002.