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BORN
1926
DIED
2017
Buddy Greco Obituary
KNPR cited the Las Vegas Review-Journal columnist Norm Clarke, who announced the entertainer's death in a tweet.
Greco was born Armando Greco Aug. 14, 1926, in Philadelphia. He started playing the piano at age 4, and he was performing on the radio and in clubs at an early age.
Jazz legend Benny Goodman hired Greco to sing in his band when he was just 16. He toured the world for four years with Goodman’s band, singing, arranging, and playing the piano. After leaving Goodman's band, he headlined clubs and began his recording career.
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Greco recorded hit songs in a variety of genres including jazz, pop, and country music. His biggest song was his version of the standard “The Lady Is a Tramp,” which sold over 1 million copies. His other hit songs included “Up, Up, and Away.” He recorded over 60 albums during his career. He played on a bill in the 1960s with the Beatles.
In the 1960s, he branched out and acted on television shows as well as in movies. He appeared many times on the TV show “Away We Go” and was in the movie “The Girl Who Knew Too Much.”
He was a member of the Rat Pack and appeared with them onstage and on TV. His many celebrity friends included Peggy Lee and Marilyn Monroe. Greco was a legend in Las Vegas who headlined shows at classic Vegas Strip hotels including the Desert Inn.
Greco spent much time in England and was a favorite performer there. In 2013, he celebrated his 80th year in show business with a concert in England that featured such artists as Paul Young and Michele Collins. Greco, who married five times, was married to Lezlie Anders at the time of his death. They often performed onstage together.
52 Entries
JBROLIN
June 28, 2025
I spent a lot of time with Buddy in the 70´s. At his Sunset tower apt with Dani... and in many clubs and recording session. Always positive and always fun.
bernie campbell
March 23, 2025
thats why the lady is a tramp.yes philadelphia but he played in staten island a number of times and my friend harvey even did a soft shoe with him and richard nicastro on the own ..townouse victory blvd .he had an aunt next door to me
Stephanie Varis
May 17, 2024
Buddy Greco visited our creative studio in the Queens. NY area. There is a group of us, 24, which included Buddy and our extended friends under various showbiz and creative arts characterizations. Buddy underestimated his own talent even we were all impressed when we had seen his films and onstage performances. Buddy said showbiz would make him older to get him out of the business sooner in 5 to 6 years and he was going along with it. Ihe was in his teens when he got in and was in his 20's and they were making him middle age. Buddy said they harassed him so much to get out that he would be happy to leave them. I replied "Oh. no." I was young and impressed so I asked him to hang in there, not to let them get him down because he was so handsome, charming and talented! I told him that I enjoyed his singing and music so much. I remember him onstage in a red suit when he performed for his friends in Flushing, Queens, a local restaurant nightclub on Northern Boulevard. The producer family member asked me and I said I liked him alot and Buddy Greco will be successful. Then the guy said that I was always right and since I was a successful artist (under alias) they would have to keep him on which they did not want to do because they wanted to make room for rock and wanted to cut him sooner. So when Buddy visited us accepting he was told he would have a short career, I told him I liked his performance in the red suit and to stay in, encouraging him. Buddy replied "Your just a kid" but then said "Hey, your a young girl and you like my music! I replied I was small but a bit older. Buddy said "Then other kids may like me just like you, even teens, and I can reach a younger audience, not just adults, so I will hang in there! I can do so much more! I'm going back there to change things." I shouted "Where? What?" Buddy ran fast out saying he was going into an office and changing the "no good people" and he then changed publicists. He brought his age down to where it should be relevant to the history created (showbiz created backwards in time genres) but he was still made older 3 decades having also played as Buddy, Jr. Which was short run. The Heads made a big mistake. Audiences did not realize Buddy reinvented himself staying decades into the business with a long run, not the planned short run! His success I heard rivaled everyone else's in the group and they were in envy over his massive audiences. He was smart too because he would not let others dress like him to play him! Buddy responded when they wanted to take his onstage persona. performances and money, a big no to them because they did not support him, but he said it took him speaking to a young girl who made him realize his great potential. He shared his money where he saw fit. Years later, a lady neighbor approached me to remind me that he asked other ladies about my female traits to show appreciation to include these in one of his songs as a thank you to a young girl who was the only one who believed in him. I loved him on the radio. I was told what time to go into the house to listen to my song as per the ladie, Buddy changed the Lady is a Tramp Lyrics.True story. I marginalized my contribution then but enjoy Buddy Greco music now and it brings tears, Buddy Greco is one artist who should be included in The American Music Theater in Lancaster, PA since he came out of Philadelphia, PA. Audiences would like to her a Lounge Lizards and Brat Pack Shows as an extension of Oldies. I truly miss you Buddy! You may have a showbiz death, but we know you may always find a way to bring your talent back to us, through music and Buddy, JR. in your footsteps! Showbiz made you older then separated you from us but you are so alive decades younger as well as in our hearts, souls and minds! Greatest artist! Love ya! Buddy Greco please, "Heaven Can Wait."
Janice Gough
February 23, 2017
When I met Buddy and his lovely wife, it was at the Follies Theater in downtown Palm Springs (the Rat Pack Area). They were so gracious to meet with their fans and sign autographs. His restaurant & entertainment was also a great place to go. Later, I was privileged to work with his son, Buddy Jr. What a talent he is! I sent out my sympathy and friendship to the entire family, He will be missed but always a fabric or the "Making of Palm Springs". Sincerely wishes, Janice Gough, Pres. of Art Foundation D.H.S.
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Anarg Frangos
January 28, 2017
Buddy Greco and I were in the orchestra at South Philadelphia high school for boys way back in 1942, 43, 44. What a great guy! what a great entertainer! what a super person & fun to be around. Jay Speck, our orchestra leader would kid with him but I think he loved him sincerely. Buddy was our piano player in the orchestra. God bless you, Buddy. You were a friend!
January 16, 2017
A lovely person, a fantastic entertainer, loved watching and listening to you xxxxxxc
January 16, 2017
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
January 15, 2017
They've got quite a club going up there in heavenl
I grew up listening to Buddy,Frank & Sammy,
They were all terrific, We've lost another great,,
January 15, 2017
We know quite a lot about you, Mr. Greco. I work with Carmello, your daughter, and she has told us your life's story. You sand The Christmas Song to Carmello this year. Beautiful. What a wonderful Dad. RIP Arlene Frederick
Rozanne Reynolds
January 14, 2017
My deepest condolences to Lezlie and the family. I enjoyed seeing Buddy's show at his club in Cathedral City with my sister Eileen Riley. Lezlie and Buddy frequented her store Ambrosia prior to their move and her death. Thank you for the wonderful memories.
Buddy and Maggi Greco (1974)
Michael James Perry
January 13, 2017
We all feel blessed to have shared a bit of your time here on earth, your legacy will live on through your music , your family and all those you have touched , and mentored, God Speed Buddy!
SJ
January 13, 2017
We offer our deepest condolences during this difficult time, may your sorrows be comforted by the God of Tender Mercies who is there to sustain us in our time of need
Cheryl Lynn
January 13, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. Draw close to God in prayer during this difficult time and he will draw close to you-James 4:8.
Becky Moreno
January 13, 2017
We enjoyed going to the club in Cathedral City so many times and hearing Buddy play.
Condolences to Lezlie and the family.
Mark and Becky Moreno
Rancho Mirage, CA
Mary Smith
January 12, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family. God cares and gives true comfort to all.
January 12, 2017
Buddy Greco brought so much joy to our home. I remember my 2 year old sun strumming along to "Roses of Picardy" on his toy guitar and shouting out "Hey!" when appropriate! RIP
Maria and Ralph Lockport NY
January 12, 2017
I HOPE FOR EVERY ONE UP THERE ,THERE IS A PIANO WAITING IN YOUR NAME A FAN ..JOE LA MONICA SAFETY HARBOS FL..AKRON OHIO
charlene mccool
January 12, 2017
I went to school with Buddy's daughter Joanne. I always admired Buddy's talent. He truly was a gifted singer and master pianist. He and his talent will be missed. Rest in peace Buddy Greco.
Aulenbacher Family
January 11, 2017
Greco family.
Our deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He will be sadly missed but will remain forever in the thoughts and hearts of the many lives he touched May the happy memories of his life sustain all of you through the difficult times
Katherine Leann Ladd
January 11, 2017
Another of our wonderful musicians has joined the Angelic Musical Personnel!!!!
Buddy Was a really great singer, writer and person - he will be missed!!!! Loved his voice and he was very handsome!!!!
RIP Buddy - God's speed!!!!
Elliot Brown
January 11, 2017
I remember you quite personally. All of the warmth. I'll miss you greatly. My sincerest sympathy to the family.
LuAnne Scalley
January 11, 2017
My deepest sympathy to Ana and her family during this difficult time.
Golden Butterfly
Donna James
January 11, 2017
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Your music and legacy will never be forgotten!
Rest in Peace, Buddy!
ed george
January 11, 2017
great memories of years past with buddy here at the Tangier in akron he played here many times what a great act and what a nice guy our deepest sorrows
Carolyn Murray
January 11, 2017
To The Family,
Sending heartfelt condolences to you at this sorrowful time of bereavement. May the Holy Father surround your family with his serene healing graces & mercies. Mr. Greco was a outstanding performer & he surely will be another member of the Heavenly Choir. RIP Buddy
Harry Simpson
January 11, 2017
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
KM
January 11, 2017
I would like to express my condolences for the loss of your loved one. Find solace in knowing that God shares your sorrow and wants to be a refuge for you during this difficult time. (Psalm 46:1)
Rick
January 11, 2017
MR. GRECO was a very talented man and will be deeply missed. May 'God' give the FAMILY peace at this most difficult time.
-Romans 15:13
C. Nabor
January 11, 2017
May the peace of God be with Buddy Greco's family, friends and fans. He will be missed by all.
Teresa
January 11, 2017
To the Greco family and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. The hope of life for who fall asleep is the resurrection. I hope this hope will sustain you as you go forward.
January 11, 2017
Mr. Greco lived to be a ripe old age--90. I am sure he had many wonderful experiences, and he earned a lot of fans.
Death never brings pleasure, but when it does happen, the life and legacy left by the deceased will always be remembered with fond memories.
May the God of tender mercies comfort the family at this time--2nd Cor 1:3.
John Taaffe
January 11, 2017
Had the great pleasure of seeing Buddy at the cops in nyc.One of the greats of all time.
Condolences to Greco family.
RIP Buddy Greco.
Adrian Barnette
January 11, 2017
We'll miss you !
Phillips
January 11, 2017
My prayers are with family and friends of Buddy Greco
May the memories of his talent stay with us always
Scott Chamberland
January 11, 2017
Rest in Peace
January 11, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Daphne Pagano
January 11, 2017
My Granma's favorite- Mr. Grego even kissed her once at his show.
Thanks for your Luv.
Ronald Montano
January 11, 2017
My deepest sympathies to the Greco family on the loss of Buddy. May God bless you all and keep you strong.
January 11, 2017
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
January 11, 2017
my deepest sympathy to your family for your loss. May you have peace and comfort during this sad time.
Ingvar
January 11, 2017
My condolences to Lezlie and the Greco Family. I pray that you'll have comfort Lezlie through this unfortunate time.
Buddy was an incredible artist and I'm honored to have met the both of you and to have seen you and Buddy perform together in Vegas.
I also thank you for the lovely cookout that you and Buddy had at your ranch before relocating to Palm Springs.
Lezlie, wishing you comfort, love and peace always.
Look out Heaven as Buddy's a coming!
Much love and God Bless!
January 10, 2017
R.I.P Buddy and thanks for the years of entertainment. In the 50's I got visit with you at "The Steak House" in Chicago...
January 10, 2017
Deepest sympathy. May his loved ones find strength and comfort in God's word in their time of need. Buddy will be missed greatly.
Ypsilanti, Michigan
christians
January 10, 2017
Sending heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the Greco family.
His amazing musical talents will be missed by man. May good memories and the love of friends and family bring you comfort. May God's word provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again.
John 17:3
JANE ESTHER
January 10, 2017
Deepest sympathy, wishing you comfort at this time, from your neighbors..apt 1064
carlotta
January 10, 2017
My the God of all peace bring comfort to the Greco family and friends at this difficult time.
Andy Watson
January 10, 2017
Thank you, Buddy, for taking a chance and hiring a green, 24 year old drummer from SC. in 1985. I sure learned a lot during our 9 months on the road together. Godspeed, my friend.
I send my deepest condolences to Buddy's family. He truly was one of a kind.
Sheila S.
January 10, 2017
Thank you for sharing your talent. May you Rest in eternal Peace.
@ The Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, S.C.
Michele Bensen
January 10, 2017
My sincere condolences to Lezlie and the whole family of Buddy Greco. He brought love and light to all his performances and his music will live on forever. He was a kind and generous man who had a beautiful gift that he shared with the world and we are all grateful for that. May he rest with God now.
Sincerely,
Michele Bensen
Faye J
January 10, 2017
Please accept my condolences. May you receive strength through prayer.
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