Cy McLean facts for kids

Cy McLean (1916 – 1986) was a talented Canadian pianist and band leader. He was active from the 1940s to the 1970s. Cy McLean led Canada's only full-size Black orchestra during the 1940s. His achievements helped open doors for other Black musicians in Canada.

Early Life and Music Career

Cy McLean was born in Sydney, Nova Scotia. He later moved to Toronto, Ontario. He started his first band in 1937. McLean was a pianist. He also worked as a messenger for Bell Canada to support himself.

Leading a Unique Orchestra

McLean became known for leading Toronto's first Black dance band. By the 1940s, he led Canada's only full-size Black orchestra. He helped train many Canadian jazz musicians of his time.

Facing Challenges and Touring

McLean and his band often played in places that were not part of the musicians' union. This was because they were not allowed to join the local union at first. Despite these challenges, the band became very popular. During World War II, a company called Lifebuoy Soap sponsored their tour. They played across southwestern Ontario. McLean and his band performed in areas where Black people had not been seen before. Sometimes, they were not allowed into restaurants. Even with these difficulties, McLean chose to perform only in Canada. He felt that people in Canada were more accepting than in the United States.

Breaking Barriers in Toronto

In 1947, Cy McLean's band made history. They were the first band to perform at Toronto's famous Colonial Tavern. This was a very important event. Before this, Black musicians were not allowed to play at clubs on Toronto's Yonge Street. Yonge Street was the main place for live music in Toronto at that time.

Influencing Other Musicians

McLean had a big impact on other musicians. He especially inspired Black musicians who faced racial barriers. One example is the famous drummer Archie Alleyne.

Later Career and Legacy

Later in his career, McLean performed five nights a week. He played at Toronto's Warwick Hotel. This was before dance bands were replaced by other types of entertainment.

Cy McLean was the great uncle of Canadian drummer Mark McLean.