Names spelt strange ways

[M'Sharak]

On a somewhat related note, I've noticed that most black guys named Richard are called Richard, Rich or Richie -- never Dick. (Except for the comedian and activist Dick Gregory). Have you ever known a black Dick?

Years ago, I used to work with a black guy whose name was Dickie.

There was also Dick Allen, who played pro baseball in the 1960s and 70s. "Dick" had been his name all his life and he was supposed to have disliked being called "Richie" during his time with the Phillies.

 

[Brian]

It is. And my friend Lou is a Louis who pronounces it "lewis". I think in general, you'll find that most Americans pronounce it that way. Except maybe for those on The Sopranos or Jersey Shore.

Not Lewis Armstrong though.

Who was from New Orleans, so naturally would have used a French pronunciation. New Orleans not being "most" of America.