Leighton “Skipper” Berg
(1905–1995)
Inducted in 1993
Born in Northwood, Iowa, Skipper Berg’s first experience with a musical unit was playing banjo during his school days at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Berg and his Viking Accordion Band played
at different radio stations from the 1930s-50s, obtaining beneficial radio exposure, eventually releasing 78rpm records under contract to major labels Vocalion & Decca Records. The Viking Accordion Band, based in Albert Lea, Minnesota, was known for its ethnic music diversification & performing in various ethnic languages. A 145-page book entitled the Viking Accordion Band Reflects Colorful History, by Skipper and Valborg Berg, is the record of his musical life.
