National Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame and Museum
605 East 222nd Street
Euclid, OH 44123
USA
E-mail: Polkashop@aol.com
Phone: 216-261-3263
Toll Free: 1-800-66POLKA
Fax: 216-261-4134
For nearly 50 years, the late drummer Wayne Habat set the beat for well-known Cleveland-Style
Polka Bands, led by Polka Hall of Famers, such as Fred Kuhar, Fred Ziwich, Don Wojtila,
Freddie Gregorich, Orchestra, Joe Fedorchak, Frank Spetich, Gaylord Klancnik, Walter
Ostanek, and his father Eddie "Hambone" Habat. Whenever a band needed a reliable,
confident drummer, Wayne was at the ready. He was known for his timing and precision.
Wayne first picked up drumsticks at age seven, learning from Johnny Pecon's drummer
Jimmy Medves. High points in his career included Frank Yankovic asking him to join
him on tour. He recorded with many groups but was especially proud of accompanying
his father Eddie. Wayne appeared with the stage band at the Polka Hall of Fame awards
show and was once honored as side musician of the year.
Inducted in 2024
www.polkafame.com © National Cleveland Style Polka Hall of Fame and Museum, 605
East 222nd Street, Euclid, OH 44123, USA.
