Guy Lombardo's New Year's Eve

Posted by Susanna McLeod Dec 31, 2007

Growing up, I remember listening to the music of the great Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians on the radio. In later years, the musician became a staple on New Year’s Eve television. Their big-band, orchestral style music – full of zest and glee - made a huge impression on me, and I still enjoy their get-up-and-dance music today.

Guy Lombardo was born in London, Ontario in 1902. He was born into a musical family; he became the leader of the family band at age 15. The Lombardo Brothers’ Orchestra and Concert Company consisted of Guy Lombardo and his three brothers, who formed a quartet, and occasionally adding their sisters and father as vocalists. The name was changed in 1924 to Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians, with instruments ranging from saxophone, trombone, trumpet, piano, drum and violin. Over the years, the orchestra grew to sixteen musicians producing wonderful melodies.

Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians was no small-time band. Immensely popular with music fans, the group had sold well over 300 million records by the early 1970s, according to the Canadian Encyclopedia, with 100 albums to their credit. Guy Lombardo died in November 1977. His elegant, vivacious music remains a highlight of New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Happy new year and welcome 2008!