History of the La Dee Das

In the early 1950's, a three piece band consisting of all brothers began playing polka music throughout the thumb area of Michigan.  This was the birth of “The Lackowski Brothers Orchestra”, featuring oldest brother, Clarence, on drums & vocals, middle brother, Bill, on sax & clarinet, and the youngest brother, Marshall, (Big Daddy) on accordion and vocals.  Many years of hard work and dedication kept this trio quite busy and in popular demand.  As time went on, each brother started individual careers and families of their own. By the early 1960's the group had retired.  Big Daddy Marshall Lackowski persevered in the field he so loved and continued to perform not only as a soloist, but formed “The LaDeeDas Orchestra”.  In early 1964 Marshall entered St. Mary's Seminary in Orchard Lake, Michigan bringing with him his love of music and, of course, his accordion.  During the next seven years in seminary, Marshall was fortunate enough to continue entertaining for various events.  He was featured on national television and radio performing his popular “Everybody Does the LaDeeDa” Oberek.  Marshall soon met Mary Ann Finelli, and they were married in August 1971. At this point, Big Daddy left the seminary to continue his career in music and pursue life as a newly-married man. 

They quickly began raising a family, passing on their deep roots in Polish heritage and a mutual love for music.  As their family increased in size, each of the children began displaying an interest in either taking up an instrument or singing on stage with mom and dad.  Over 50 years have now passed since the birth of “The Lackowski Brothers Orchestra” and Big Daddy Lackowski still continues to entertain.  As in the beginning, the band now has three Lackowski brothers performing together along with their father (Big Daddy). The present LaDeeDas perform at various events in the Detroit, Michigan area.   After many years of marriage and seven children, Marshall and Mary Ann are proud to give to you a special part of them: their immediate family and extended family, a new and continuing generation of polka music.  May God bless each and every one of you for all the love and support you have shared with us throughout the years.  May a part of our hearts be connected with yours through the love we send you in our music.