What makes a bandleader? - In Larry Clinton's case it was never his idea. But for four remarkable years he was one of the greatest of them all, the leader of a big band in the decade of big bands. His contribution, however, was to many bands. His published compositions and arrangements were played by famous bands and by every hometown dance band in America. Even as a bandleader he could never escape his role as the man behind the success of his competitors. His opening theme, 'The Dipsy Doodle", was a hit for Tommy Dorsey. His closing theme, "A Study In Brown", was a hit for Glen Gray. To some it might have appeared that Larry Clinton was riding a coattail or two, but not to Clinton. He knew it was the other way around. - --Irving Townsend