Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

REISMAN, Leo

(b 1897, Boston MA; d 18 Dec. '61, Miami FL) Prolific bandleader. Studied violin, attended New England Conservatory of Music; led band at Boston's Brunswick Hotel '19, first records '21. Ran several bands to be able to play several gigs at once. Played Central Park date '21, became well-known in NYC. "Puttin' On The Ritz' '30 incl. Bubber Miley, trumpet; Cole Porter song "What Is This Thing Called Love' recorded same date, became band's theme. During '30s played swank hotel dates, many broadcasts and records, some with Fred Astaire, Lee Wiley. To West Coast '38; soon returned to NYC; hotel dates continued through '40s; in early '50s led small group in Beverly Hills.