Introduction

Incorporating influential musicians into the curriculum allows students to appreciate the creative minds that have shaped popular music history. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on teaching students about Gary Lewis, leader of the 1960s pop band Gary Lewis & The Playboys, and how his contributions have shaped the music industry.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Gary Lewis, born on July 31, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, grew up in a creative family as the son of iconic comedian Jerry Lewis. From an early age, he was exposed to music and enjoyed experimenting with various instruments. While attending college, he formed his band Gary Lewis & The Playboys.

Teaching about Gary Lewis’s early life allows students to understand how one’s upbringing can shape their future career and musical inclinations.

Gary Lewis & The Playboys: Success and Influence

Gary Lewis & The Playboys achieved national success with their debut single “This Diamond Ring,” which reached No.1 on Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965. They continued their winning streak with several Top 10 hits such as “Count Me In”, “Save Your Heart for Me”, “Everybody Loves a Clown”, and “She’s Just My Style.”

Discussing the accomplishments of Gary Lewis & The Playboys will help students gauge the impact of their music and recognize their significance in reinforcing the pop genre during this period.

Musical Style

One of the most important aspects of teaching Gary Lewis is to introduce his distinctive style that blended pop-rock with elements of Merseybeat—a subgenre that emerged from Liverpool in the United Kingdom during the early 1960s.

Make sure your lesson plan includes an in-depth analysis of Gary Lewis & The Playboys’ songs to illustrate how their unique sound contributed to shaping the popular music landscape during that time.

 Personal Life and Family

Gary Lewis is not just the son of a famous father but also had a family life that played a significant role in shaping his career. Encourage your students to research Gary Lewis’s personal life and write about how it influenced his music, decision-making, and overall success.

Legacy and Impact on Music

Even though Gary Lewis & The Playboys disbanded in the early 1970s, the impact of their music remains relevant to date. Your study of Gary Lewis should emphasize recognizing his achievements, including being awarded a Gold Disc for “This Diamond Ring” by the RIAA.

Student Activities

To make teaching more engaging, involve your students in various activities based on Gary Lewis’s life and career. Some suggestions include:

1. Musical Research Project: Assign your students to research the popular music of the 1960s and highlight the significant contributions by Gary Lewis & The Playboys.

2. Song Analysis: Have students analyze Gary Lewis’s lyrics and explore elements like themes, instrumentation, and vocal technique.

3. Group Discussions: Encourage group discussions about Gary Lewis’s influence on modern musicians or how his band forged connections between British and American pop music scenes.

Conclusion

Teaching students about Gary Lewis not only allows them to explore the rich history of popular music but also helps them understand how cultural and personal influences contribute to an artist’s career development. By incorporating these points into your lesson plan, you’ll provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Gary Lewis’s life, career, and enduring legacy.