Guy Lombardo

Gaetano Alberto "Guy" Lombardo (June 19, 1902 - November 5, 1977) was a Canadian bandleader and violinist. With his three brothers Carmen, Lebert and Victor and other musicians from his hometown of London, Ontario he formed the jazz band The Royal Canadians in 1924, famous for playing what is considered "The Sweetest Music This Side of Heaven."

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The band played at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City from 1929 to 1959, and their New Year's Eve broadcasts (which continued until 1976 at the Waldorf Astoria) were a major part of New Year's celebrations across North America. In 1938, he became a naturalized citizen of the United States. They were noted for playing the traditional song Auld Lang Syne as part of the celebrations. Their recording of the song still plays as the first song of the new year in Times Square.

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Guy Lombardo was also an important figure in hydroplane racing, winning the Gold Cup in 1946 and the Ford Memorial competition in 1948. A museum in London is dedicated to his musical and hydroplane racing achievements. The Guy Lombardo Museum is located near Wonderland Gardens, a venue closely associated with Lombardo and the Royal Canadians. Nearby there is also a bridge named after him, as well as Lombardo Avenue in north London near the University of Western Ontario.

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June 19: June 19 is the 170th day of the year (171st in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 195 days remaining....

1902: 1902 was a common year starting on Wednesday (see link for calendar)....

November 5: November 5 is the 309th day of the year (310th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 56 days remaining....

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