‘King of Swing’ Louis Prima gets posthumous star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Louis Prima gets posthumous Hollywood star

LOS ANGELES — “King of Swing” Louis Prima has received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in a centennial celebration that included dancing in the street to his big-band sounds.

The influential band leader was honored at a Sunday ceremony on Vine Street attended by his son Louis Prima Jr., who continues the legacy of his father’s music, his daughter Lena Prima, celebrities, dignitaries and fans.

“Louis Prima was a great entertainer and presented a great show. But more than anything else, he brought happiness to his audiences,” said Bill Cosby in a congratulatory message read at the midday ceremony, which also included a concert of Prima’s music by Louis Prima Jr.’s big band, The Witnesses, as well as swing-dancing fans.

Prima, who died in 1978, would have been 100 years old this year.