Jerry Lewis' son hit it big, then times changed
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
Today's Morning Edition music is from "This Diamond Ring" by Gary Lewis and the Playboys.
It was No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart 50 years ago Wednesday.
The band started out in 1964 with a regular gig at Disneyland. They made it big after Gary's father, comedian Jerry Lewis, got them a slot on "The Ed Sullivan Show."
They had a string of top 10 hits before Gary Lewis was drafted into the Army in 1966. Bitter about the interruption to his career, he refused to entertain the troops while he was in the service.
When he got out, tastes had changed and the band did not get back together.
Video: Gary Lewis and The Playboys performing "This Diamond Ring"http://youtu.be/ZeuYdkxS7DA
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.