Lou Stein

Lou Stein was a versatile American jazz pianist born on April 22, 1922, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began his career in jazz at a young age and gained early recognition by joining Ray McKinley's band in 1942. During World War II, Stein played with the Glenn Miller orchestra while Miller was stateside. After the war, he worked with various notable musicians, including Charlie Ventura, Benny Goodman, Sarah Vaughan, and the Sauter-Finegan Orchestra. Stein's adaptability allowed him to fit comfortably into different jazz styles, from swing to Dixieland and commercial settings. He also had success as a bandleader and session musician, scoring a U.S. Top 40 hit with "Almost Paradise" in 1957.

Stein's contributions to jazz extend beyond his performances with famous bands. He composed notable pieces, such as "East of Suez," which was recorded by artists like Jackie and Roy, and Moe Koffman. His career spanned multiple decades, with performances at numerous festivals and venues, including the Newport Jazz Festival and the White House. Stein continued to be active in music until his later years, passing away on December 11, 2002.

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