Woody Herman Woody Herman Woodrow Charles Herman (May 16, 1913 – October 29, 1987) was an American jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, singer, and big band leader. Leading various groups called "The Herd", Herman came to prominence in the late 1930s and was active until his death in 1987. His bands often played music that was cutting edge and experimental for its time; they received numerous Grammy nominations and awards. Herman was born Woodrow Charles Thomas Herman in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on May 16, 1913. His parents were Otto and Myrtle (Bartoszewicz) Herman. His mother was Polish. His father had a deep love for show
Leader of the Band Leader of the Band "Leader of the Band" is a song written by Dan Fogelberg from his 1981 album "The Innocent Age". The song was written as a tribute to his father, Lawrence Fogelberg, a musician and the leader of a band, who was still alive at the time the song was released. Lawrence died in August 1982, but not before this hit song made him a celebrity with numerous media interviews interested in him as its inspiration. Released as a single at the end of 1981, the tribute peaked at #9 on the "Billboard" Hot 100 chart in March