Gary Lewis was born on July 31st, 1946

Written by: Jack Thompson

Gary Lewis: The Leader of Gary Lewis and the Playboys

Gary Lewis, born Gary Harold Lee Levitch on July 31, 1945, is an American musician and leader of the popular 1960s band Gary Lewis and the Playboys. He is best known for his hit singles "This Diamond Ring" and "Count Me In," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the mid-1960s.

Early Life and Career

Lewis is the son of legendary comedian Jerry Lewis and singer Patti Palmer. He received his first set of drums as a gift on his 15th birthday and formed his band Gary and the Playboys with four friends at the age of 18. The band's name was coined by Lewis himself, jokingly referring to his bandmates as "playboys" due to their frequent tardiness to practice sessions.

Lewis' mother, Patti Palmer, quietly funded the band's equipment purchases, as she believed his father would not support the band financially. The band played local gigs, including a stint at Disneyland, where they were discovered by producer Snuff Garrett.

Rise to Fame

Garrett saw an opportunity to capitalize on the Lewis name and helped the band develop their sound. He pushed Lewis to improve his drumming skills, even enlisting the help of renowned drummer Buddy Rich. Garrett also decided to make Lewis the lead singer, which would become a key factor in the band's success.

The band's first single, "This Diamond Ring," hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965, making Gary Lewis an overnight sensation. The song's success was partly due to Garrett's innovative studio techniques, including overdubbing to enhance Lewis' natural singing voice.

Military Service and Continued Success

In 1965, Lewis was drafted into the United States Army and served for two years, including a stint in South Korea and Vietnam. During his time in the service, the band continued to release hit singles, including "Count Me In" and "Save for a Rainy Day."

After his military service, Lewis returned to the music scene and continued to release popular singles, including "Green Grass" and "My Heart's Symphony." Although the band's popularity began to wane in the late 1960s, they remained a staple of the 1960s music scene.

Legacy and Impact

Gary Lewis and the Playboys had a significant impact on the 1960s music scene, blending pop, rock, and folk elements to create a unique sound. The band's music influenced many other artists of the time, including The Beach Boys and The Byrds.

Lewis' legacy extends beyond his music as well. He has been an inspiration to many young musicians, and his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Lewis has been involved in various charitable causes, including the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon, which raises funds for muscular dystrophy research.

In his later years, Lewis has continued to perform and record music, releasing several solo albums and performing with various bands and musicians.

• This Diamond Ring (1965)
• Count Me In (1965)
• Save for a Rainy Day (1965)
• Green Grass (1966)
• My Heart's Symphony (1967)

Gary Lewis' contributions to music and popular culture are undeniable. As the leader of Gary Lewis and the Playboys, he brought joy and excitement to millions of music fans in the 1960s. His legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.