Willie Lewis, born on June 10, 1905, in Cleburne, Texas, was an American jazz clarinetist and bandleader. He grew up in Dallas and began performing in variety shows as a teenager. After studying at the New England Conservatory of Music, Lewis joined Will Marion Cook's orchestra and later toured with Sam Wooding’s band across Europe, South America, and North Africa until 1931. He then formed his own group, Willie Lewis and His Entertainers, which included notable musicians like Jerry Blake, Arthur Briggs, and Benny Carter. The band achieved success in Europe and recorded for labels such as Swing and Brunswick. In 1941, Lewis disbanded the orchestra and returned to New York City, where he pursued acting but eventually worked as a bartender. He passed away on January 13, 1971.
