Guy Lombardo (original) (raw)

Gaetano Alberto "Guy" Lombardo (June 19, 1902 - November 5, 1977) was a Canadian bandleader and violinist. With his brothers Carmen and Lebert and other musicians from his hometown of London, Ontario he formed the jazz band The Royal Canadians in 1924. 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. They were noted for playing the traditional song Auld Lang Syne as part of the celebrations.

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 museum is near a bridge which is also named after him.