Lew Stone, born Louis Steinberg on May 28, 1898, in Bethnal Green, London, was a prominent British bandleader and arranger during the British dance band era. Known for his skillful, innovative, and imaginative musical arrangements, Stone made significant contributions to the music scene from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Stone's early career involved working with several important dance bands, including the Savoy Orpheans and Ray Starita's Ambassador's Band. From 1927 to 1931, his arrangements for the Bert Ambrose Orchestra helped establish it as one of the best in Europe. He also collaborated with Jack Hylton's and Jack Payne's BBC Dance Orchestra.

In 1931, Stone joined Roy Fox's Band at the Monseigneur Restaurant as a pianist and arranger. When Fox fell ill, Stone took over leadership, and under his direction, the band gained immense popularity. Vocalist Al Bowlly became a regular feature, contributing to the band's success. Stone's band became a favorite with the public, performing at venues like the London Palladium and broadcasting on radio stations such as Radio Normandy and Radio Luxembourg.

Throughout the 1930s, Stone also worked as a musical director for British & Dominions Film Corporation and other film companies, contributing to approximately 40 pre-1947 films. During the war years, his band was reduced in size but continued to perform at various venues.

In the 1960s, Stone formed Lew Stone and his Sextet, performing regularly on radio shows like "Music While You Work." He also started his own entertainment agency during this period.

Lew Stone passed away on February 13, 1969, in Roehampton, London, leaving behind a legacy as one of the supreme bandleaders of the British dance band era.