E. Y. Harburg Biography

Early Life as well as Education
Edgar Yipsel "Yip" Harburg, born upon April 8, 1896, in New York City, was a well-known American lyricist as well as musician known for his ageless contributions to the globe of songs. Born into a modest Russian-Jewish family, Harburg matured on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. As the youngest of four making it through kids, Harburg was revealed to his family's strong work values as well as their love for the Yiddish culture.

Harburg participated in the Townsend Harris High School, where he fulfilled future composer Ira Gershwin. The two promptly connected over their shared love for poetry and songs. Later, Harburg went after higher education at City College of New York, where he researched journalism and eventually finished a level in electric engineering from City College.

Job and Musical Contributions
In spite of his formal education in design, Harburg's passion for the arts led him to explore the globe of songwriting. Following his solution in World War I, Harburg went back to New York City and also began composing track verses for quiet movies while functioning as an electric home appliance salesperson.

At some point, he reconnected with Ira Gershwin, who introduced him to composer Jay Gorney. With each other, Harburg and also Gorney teamed up on numerous tasks, with "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?" (1932) becoming their major hit. The tune recorded the somber mood of the Great Depression and also resonated deeply with the American public.

His string of successes led Harburg to Hollywood, where he would certainly work with gifted composers such as Harold Arlen, Jerome Kern, and also Burton Lane. Harburg's partnership with Arlen brought about one of his most remarkable works, "Over the Rainbow" (1939), which wonderfully showcased his remarkable lyricism. Composed for the classic film "The Wizard of Oz", the song went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Broadway Musicals
Harburg made a victorious return to New York City in the 1940s, this moment to overcome Broadway. He dealt with numerous successful musicals, starting with the political allegory "Bloomer Girl" (1944), which he co-wrote with author Harold Arlen. The duo proceeded their success with "Finian's Rainbow" (1947), a satirical musical that tackled issues such as racism and also national politics. The program was a hit and also solidified Harburg's online reputation as a respected author with a keen awareness of social problems.

In the complying with years, Harburg contributed to several other Broadway manufacturings like "Jamaica" (1957), which starred Lena Horne, and also "Happy Town" (1959), a cooperation with Joseph Meyer as well as Will Holt.

Advocacy and Impact on Society
Harburg was an outspoken supporter for social justice throughout his profession. His work consistently highlighted widespread societal concerns, such as economic inequality and also racial bias. During the McCarthy era, Harburg found himself blacklisted in Hollywood due to his left-leaning political ideas. However, this did not stop him from seeking his enthusiasm for composing and also promoting for social adjustment.

Personal Life as well as Death
Harburg married Edelaine "Puddy" Wolf in 1922, with whom he had two kids, Ernest Harburg and Sandra Harburg. The pair later divorced in 1939. Harburg then wed Alma Rubens and remained with her until his death.

E. Y. Harburg passed away on March 5, 1981, after meeting a crash in Los Angeles. His indisputable contributions to American songs, from the Great Depression and also the civil rights activity, developed his enduring tradition as a talented musician as well as socially conscious lyricist.

Our collection contains 10 quotes who is written / told by Y. Harburg.

Related authors: Ira Gershwin (Musician), Lena Horne (Actress), Lawrence Taylor (Athlete), Ice T (Musician), Townsend Harris (Businessman), Burton Lane (Composer)

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