NewsSt Pete CatalystAugust 1, 2026Pinellas County
The History of Guy Lombardo and the New Year's Eve Tradition
This article discusses the historical connection between bandleader Guy Lombardo, his band the Royal Canadians, and the tradition of playing their 1947 recording of 'Auld Lang Syne' during the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square.
Read the full story at St Pete CatalystWhy It Matters
The article provides historical context for a widely recognized American cultural tradition involving a specific musical recording.
Key Facts
- Guy Lombardo and his band, the Royal Canadians, performed 'Auld Lang Syne' every New Year's Eve for nearly 50 years.
- The 1947 recording of 'Auld Lang Syne' by the Royal Canadians is played annually at midnight on January 1 in Times Square.
Who's Mentioned
PersonJohn Murchison“Texas oil mogul and primary investor in the Tierra Verde project.”locationTierra Verde“Man-made island community in St. Petersburg.”PersonGuy Lombardo“Bandleader who lent his name to the Tierra Verde development and Port-o-Call ven”OrganizationRoyal Canadians“The musical band led by Guy Lombardo.”otherPinellas Bayway“Road and causeway system linking the mainland to Fort DeSoto.”OrganizationVariety“A magazine cited as a source.”locationTimes Square“The location of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop.”PersonArthur Etkus“Public relations counselor who facilitated the partnership between Lombardo and ”PersonFred Berlanti“Partner in the development and construction of Tierra Verde.”PersonGary Mormino“Historian who documented the controversy surrounding the project.”PersonLouis Berlanti“New York developer in charge of construction for Tierra Verde.”PersonClint Murchison“Texas oil mogul and primary investor in the Tierra Verde project.”