Solid! -- Irving Berlin Biography

Irving Berlin

Probably the most famous and most important songwriter of the twentieth century, Irving Berlin was active in the music industry for almost sixty years. He wrote over a thousand songs, including some of the most famous and successful numbers of all-time, such as ''White Christmas'' and ''God Bless America.''

Born in a poor Russian Jewish ghetto, Berlin's parents immigrated to America when he was five, settling in New York's Lower East Side. As a young boy he sang on the streets for pennies to help support his family after his father died. Though he couldn't read music he taught himself enough piano to began writing songs. He sold his first number, ''Marie of Sunny Italy,'' in 1907. In 1911 he had his first big hit with ''Alexander's Ragtime Band.'' Two years later he married his first wife, who died soon after from typhoid she had contracted on their honeymoon. He married again in 1926, and the couple remained together until her death in 1988.

In 1919 Berlin formed his own music publishing company, still in existance today. He also co-founded ASCAP. Over the years Berlin wrote dozens of plays and films. His song ''Blue Skies'' was featured in the first talkie, The Jazz Singer. He retired from Hollywood in 1957 and from Broadway in 1962.

Berlin dedicated his life to his work, not having any hobbies or past-times. Never learning to read or play music he used a special piano to help him compose. Berlin was also well-known for his patriotism and charity. He supported the war effort during both World Wars and established several foundations in his lifetime. He signed over all royalties from his song ''God Bless America'' to the Boy Scouts.

Berlin was honored many times over the years. He was awarded the Army's Medal of Merit, a Congressional Gold Medal, the Freedom Medal and the Medal of Liberty. Much controversy surrounded his work, though. It was often charged that he did not write all of his own material, that he hired a writer in Harlem to help him. No one could believe that one man could write so many songs in so many different styles. He was also charged with plagurism on several occassions.

A private man all his life, he became a hermit in his later years. His last public appearance was at his 100th birthday celebration in 1988. He died from natural causes a year later.

Solid!

The encyclopedia of big band, lounge, classic jazz and space-age sounds.

Irving Berlin

Born

Died

Real Name

Marriages / Children

Home Page

Irving Berlin