Ramsey Lewis is a renowned American jazz composer and pianist, noted for his accessible and smooth style that merges jazz, gospel, and pop elements. He gained prominence in the 1960s with a series of hit records, including "The 'In' Crowd," "Hang On Sloopy," and "Wade in the Water," which showcased his distinctive, lively piano technique. Lewis's work significantly contributed to the popularization of jazz music, and his influence can be seen in the development of the smooth jazz and jazz-pop subgenres. His long-standing trio, which included drummer Isaac "Red" Holt and bassist Eldee Young, remained a popular fixture in the jazz scene for many years.