Doc Severinsen served as bandleader on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson for most of its run.
Severinsen became the program’s bandleader in 1967, succeeding Milton DeLugg, and remained associated with the show until Carson retired in 1992. He led the NBC orchestra and was also known for flamboyant suits, trumpet playing and a highly recognizable on-air presence.
The band’s duties included playing the opening theme, accompanying musical guests and providing cues for comedy and applause. Severinsen’s orchestra helped give Carson’s version of The Tonight Show a polished big-band sound.
Some viewers associate Ed McMahon with the show’s musical opening because he was its announcer and Carson’s famous sidekick. McMahon did not lead the orchestra. Another possible confusion is Johnny Carson himself, who was an accomplished drummer, but he was the host rather than the program’s bandleader.