Clyde Lucas

US dance bandleader, trombonist, vocalist and songwriter. Older brother of Lyn Lucas, who sang in Clyde's orchestra. Also, brother of Leon Lucas (2). Born c. 1901 Minneapolis, Kansas Died January 15, 1982 (aged 80). Lucas grew up in Los Angeles, California and was of "Chicano" (American Mexican) background. Became a professional musician in 1920. He began his career as a singer and trombonist in the Herb Wiedoeft Orchestra along with his brother Leon. In the early 1930's, Lucas formed his own band whch became known as the "doublers band", as each sideman played several instruments. The vocal group was known as Four Men Only. He was popular in the United States in the 1930s and 1940s as the leader of Clyde Lucas And His California Dons and Clyde Lucas And His Orchestra. Lucas married Gypsy Cooper, a saxophonist who played for the Hour of Charm Orchestra and Phil Spitalny's Orchestra (all-female bands), and they moved to Miami in 1946. He spent ten years as the programming director for WTVJ and became a professional golfer in 1960. Composed songs with brother including "Congo Rhythm" but only listed in copyrights not BMI or ASCAP.