A Legacy of Jazz and Community
Ramsey Emmanuel Lewis, Jr., the world-renowned jazz musician and composer, began his journey into music at the tender age of four. Born on May 27, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Lewis was the son of industrious, self-educated Southern farm workers who met in church. His upbringing in a musically inclined household laid the foundation for a career that would span decades and leave an indelible mark on the world of jazz.
Lewis’ formal music education began in 1947 when he enrolled at the Chicago Music College Preparatory School, where he studied until 1954. During this time, his teacher, Dorothy Mendelsohn, played a pivotal role in shaping his musical talents, particularly by teaching him how to listen with his “inner ear.” Despite his father’s collection of Duke Ellington, Art Tatum, and Mead Lux Lewis records, Ramsey had little exposure to jazz outside of these influences. His musical journey took a significant turn after graduating from Wells High School in 1954 when he began working as an accompanist at the Zion Hill Baptist Church.
In pursuit of further education, Lewis briefly attended Chicago Music College but left at the age of eighteen to marry. His professional career took off in 1956 when he formed the Ramsey Lewis Jazz Trio with bassist Eldee Young and drummer Red Holt. The group quickly gained recognition and signed with Chess Records in 1957 to release their first album. The Trio’s innovative sound and dynamic performances earned them opportunities to play at prestigious New York jazz clubs and embark on full-time tours.
Throughout his career, Ramsey Lewis demonstrated remarkable versatility and creativity. He recorded with Columbia Records from 1971 to 1974 and later signed with GRP Records in 1991. Over the years, he achieved numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards and five gold records between 1967 and 1976. His major hits—“The In Crowd,” “Wade in the Water,” and “Hang On Sloopy”—became iconic pieces that transcended jazz and reached broader audiences.
Since 1957, Lewis has graced the stages of major clubs, jazz festivals, and summer venues across the United States. His collaborative efforts extended to performances with more than twenty-five symphony orchestras, showcasing his ability to blend jazz with classical influences. Beyond live performances, Lewis became a prominent media figure. He hosted The Ramsey Lewis Morning Show on Chicago radio and a weekly syndicated jazz program. From 1990 to 1999, he served as the host of BET’s Jazz Central, further cementing his role as an ambassador for jazz.
In addition to his musical achievements, Ramsey Lewis has been deeply committed to community service and education. In 1992, he was named artistic director of the Ravinia Jazz Festival, a position that allowed him to nurture emerging talent and promote the genre he loved. He also serves on the board of several organizations, including the Merit Music Program, which provides free music lessons to youth; Cycle, an inner-city self-help high school program; and the Ravinia Mentor Program. His dedication to philanthropy extends to his role as honorary chairman of the Cares for Kids Foundation.
Lewis’ contributions to both music and community have earned him numerous honors. In 2000, he was named Radio Personality of the Year—a testament to his ability to connect with audiences both on and off the stage. A lifelong resident of Chicago, Ramsey Lewis has been married to Janet Tamillow Lewis since 1990. He is the proud father of seven children, grandfather of twelve, and great-grandfather of one. His enduring legacy as a musician, educator, and community leader continues to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.