(June 6th 1890 - August 25th 1971)

Theodore Leopold Friedman was born in Circleville, Ohio in 1890. As a clarinetist he would be among the first white Northern musicians to start imitating the New Orleans style. Known professionally as Ted Lewis his record debut came in 1917 as a member of "Earl Fuller's Jazz Band" and he was leading a band of his own by 1919. During the early '20's Ted was considered by many to be one of the very top jazz performers billed as "Mr. Entertainment". However as a reed player he never developed past the outdated style of late 1910's causing Ted to be increasing better known for his talents as a band director and vocalist.

A celebrated personality his bands would include some of the leading musicians of the day such as Benny Goodman and the Dorsey Brothers. Ted Lewis is fondly remembered for the famous catchphrases "Is everybody happy?" and "yes sir!".