Life of joe e lewis

A very interesting biography of an old time "entertainer" in the true sense of the word. Joe E. Lewis lived a fast life. He was very big in show business though remains largely forgotten today, even in spite of the fact that Frank Sinatra played him in the film about him based on this book and bearing the same title. Lewis' life completely changed when, as still a relatively young man, he had his throat cut by some gangsters who wanted to settle a score with him for leaving the cheap night club that had first brought him fame, when he had opportunities to advance in the business.

The book opens with that harrowing episode, then goes back to detail Lewis' life, philosophy and cohorts. It's a fascinating glimpse of the seamy underbelly of show business, sort of like "Guys and Dolls" but in a much, much more serious vein. In spite of his nearly being murdered, Lewis maintained a positive and generous man until he died. He was truly one of those few people about whom you could say "He never met a stranger.

My only exposure to seeing him was on an old naturally episode of "What's My Line? By then, I believe he was just a few years from his passing. If you enjoy biographies which explore the little explored aspects of show business, like the cheap night clubs, the dingy dressing rooms, the smoky burlesque houses, then I think you will enjoy this book.

Life of joe e lewis

It's written in a fairly breezy, clipped way and thoroughly enjoyable in the way it rings true. Art Cohn was a good writer, with a concise style and sharp wit. He truly brings Lewis to life. I ran across this book in a very old paperback edition, which more or less came apart as I read it, but I'm so glad I did. I know I've seen the Sinatra film before, but don't recall much about it.

It was more Sinatra's golden age - the 50s - when he made many great films, and I'd love to see this one again. Highly recommended. Author books 81 followers. Lewis is a biography of the famous singer, comedian, and sometimes actor, Joe E. Private Number 6. Too Many Husbands Short. Nay, Nay, Nero Short. The Big Show 5. Previous 3. Waltz Across Texas 5.

The Ed Sullivan Show 7. Personal details Edit. Alternative name Joe Lewis. Martha Stewart March 31, - August 2, divorced. Pauline Kaplan. Musical comedy. Music by Brad Greene. Additional dialogue by Parke Levy and Alan Lipscott. Additional music by Sammy Fain. In other projects. Wikimedia Commons Wikiquote Wikidata item. American singer — Not to be confused with Joe Louis.

Some of this article's listed sources may not be reliable. Please help improve this article by looking for better, more reliable sources. Unreliable citations may be challenged and removed. June Learn how and when to remove this message. Lewis in Private Buckaroo New York CityU. Martha Stewart. Early life [ edit ]. Comedian Joe E. Lewis Dies at Talmey, Allene.

Lewisvol. Davidson, W. Lewis opens at the Chez Paree on Thursday. Chicago Daily Tribune Lewis opens at the chez Paree on Thursday. Mack, Roy. Lewis Will Alternate Layoffs. Lewis Stricken. Lewis Kudos. Lewis, Howe Reelected by Friars. Lewis h. Log In Search. Skip to content. Home What is Vaudeville? Stories Names Topics Contact Us.

Search Toggle search interface Menu Toggle extended navigation. His continued popularity and loyalty Mr. His intimate style Mr. One article gave a typical description; His routine is the same; his topics no different — sex and booze; and there certainly is little discernable change in the muffled, garrulous manner in which he presents his material.

A commentary states; Mr. His money management and prestige Mr. His bachelor lifestyle Mr. His life of service and longtime friendship with Frank Sinatra Variety magazine shows that Mr. Conclusion In sum, Mr.