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Sunshine Alley

Ted Lewis & His Band

Ted Lewis

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This record was made in New York City on May 19th 1922 featuring Ted Lewis clarinet, alto sax, & leader.

*"Sunshine Alley" was composed by Eugene West.

Ted Lewis was initially the leader of "Earl Fuller's Famous Jazz Band" in 1917. He became a big star with the Fuller Band and was leading a group of his own by 1919. Lewis subsequently landed a record contract with Columbia who would market him as their answer to the Victor's "Original Dixieland Jass Band".

The circumstances surrounding the successful career of Ted Lewis were a special case among dance band leaders. Although he possessed absolutely no ability as a singer, Mister Lewis led one of the top commercial Dixieland bands in the United States.

In 1916 as a part of his vaudeville comedy routine Ted Lewis formed his first five piece band billed; "Ted Lewis & His Nut Band". In October 1919 Columbia Records signed the Lewis band and released his first single, "Wond'ring". It was the start for a very successful recording career. Ted announced his retirement in 1930, but at Columbia's request he returned to both stage and studio the following year. In 1967, after a long career lasting no less than fifty years, the one and only "Mr. Entertainment", Ted Lewis final gave his farewell performance.