Norman Lee (musician)
Norman Lee (March 21, 1921 – December 6, 1978) was an American songwriter, jazz clarinetist, and big band singer of the 1950s to 1970s.[1]
Norman Lee | |
---|---|
Birth name | Norman Uehle |
Born | March 21, 1921 Danville, Iowa, U.S. |
Died | December 6, 1978 (aged 57) Wichita, Kansas, U.S. |
Genres | Jazz |
Instruments | Clarinet, vocals |
Early life
Born Norman Uehle in Danville, Iowa, Lee was raised in nearby Correctionville, Iowa. His mother, Alice Lee, was also a musician.[2]
Career
Lee is best known for his collaboration with Lawrence Welk. Lee co-authored several songs, including "Champagne Polka", with Welk.[3] Lee also led his own group, the Norman Lee Orchestra, in Kansas. Lee also toured the United States with the Eddy Howard Orchestra and later took over the group after Howard's death.
Death
In 1978, Lee was murdered by a former member of his band along with his wife and publicist in Wichita, Kansas.[4]
Discography
- "Slappin' Clarinet"
- "Let's Go Dance Again"
References
- Billboard – October 6, 1951 – Page 14 "Norman Lee, fronting the old Eddy Howard crew, is in the midst of an indefinite engagement at Oh Henry Ballroom, Willow Springs, Ill., where good airtime helps build this new crew. "
- "Clipped From Sioux City Journal". Sioux City Journal. June 8, 1998. p. 1. Retrieved July 4, 2022.
- Billboard – March 24, 1973, "Singer, composer, clarinetist Norman Lee, who co-authored with Lawrence Welk "Champagne Polka," has signed a ..."
- "Former Band Member Is Sought In Slaying of Three in Kansas". The New York Times. December 10, 1978. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved July 4, 2022.
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