Gary Lewis and the Playboys were an American pop rock band formed in 1962, led by Gary Lewis, the son of comedian Jerry Lewis. They became popular in the mid-1960s, known for their catchy, upbeat songs with a clean-cut image that appealed to the teen market.
Their biggest hit was "This Diamond Ring" (1965), which reached No. 1 on the charts. The band also had other successful singles like "Count Me In" and "Save Your Heart for Me." They were part of the broader 1960s pop scene but often stood out for their polished sound and wholesome appeal.
Despite their success, the band’s popularity waned by the late 1960s, but their music remains a notable part of the era's pop landscape.
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The members of Gary Lewis and the Playboys varied slightly over time, but the core lineup included:
Gary Lewis – Lead vocals and drums
Jerry Lewis – Bass guitar (Gary's father, though he was not a permanent member, he often played with them during early performances)
Dave Walker – Guitar
Alvin "Red" Taylor – Drums (later replaced by other drummers)
John West – Lead guitar
Carl Radle – Bass guitar (joined the band later)
Over the years, the band had a revolving lineup, but Gary Lewis remained the central figure. The early members contributed to the band’s distinctive sound that helped them achieve their success in the mid-1960s.