Dewey Jeffries

Cleveland, mid 1960s - 2000s

Dewey Jeffries entertained three generations of Clevelanders over more than 40 years. He probably played more than a 1000 shows in his life, both in various Cleveland clubs and the occasional out of town shows. 

He was a pianist and singer, starting playing solo and small group gigs in the late 1960s, and contiuning up to the last year or so of his life.

He was playing Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV in April 1975, Cedat Rapids, IA in March 1982, and Detroit in 1984. His NE Ohio gigs included residencies at several clubs, some lasting years

He recorded 3 45s and an LP in the space of 9 years, and then nothing after 1981. It was about performing for Dewey and he had many devoted fans and friends. He also worked with younger musicians.

His recordings, although few, show he had a talent for writing jazz/R&B/pop songs that, had they been marketed, could have been at least regional hits. All his recording were done on his own, with the three 45s being limited Boddie pressings. He made one LP that included all but one original.

He passed away on July 17, 2009.

Discography:
Ole London / When No One Cared - Gary-Dew 7216, 1972
Live Each Day / How Do You Change The Old Foundation? - E&J 7419, 1974
You Brought About A Change / Why Do You Do What You Do - Peltro 7608/9, 1976
LP - This Is For You - Della no # (NR master12425), 1981