The In Crowd (Ramsey Lewis album)

The In Crowd is a live jazz album by the Ramsey Lewis Trio, recorded in 1965 at the Bohemian Caverns in Washington, D.C., and released on the Argo label (later Chess Records). The album is notable for its title track, "The 'In' Crowd," which became a surprise pop hit and significantly boosted Lewis's mainstream popularity.

The album captures the energy and atmosphere of a live performance, showcasing the trio's blend of jazz, gospel, and soul influences. Alongside the title track, The In Crowd features interpretations of popular songs and original compositions. The success of the album is largely attributed to the infectious groove and accessible melodies, making it appealing to a broad audience beyond traditional jazz listeners. It reached the top of the Billboard jazz chart and also achieved significant success on the pop charts, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard 200.

The personnel on the album consisted of Ramsey Lewis on piano, Eldee Young on bass, and Redd Holt on drums. The album is considered a cornerstone of the Ramsey Lewis Trio's discography and an important document of the mid-1960s jazz scene. Its impact extended beyond commercial success, contributing to the popularization of instrumental jazz music.