Irving Berlin

Irving Berlin, an American songwriting legend, composed over 1,500 songs, including timeless classics like "White Christmas" and "God Bless America.".

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Birth Name :

Israel Baline

Profession :

Composer

Birthday :

May 11, 1888

Star Sign :

Taurus

Death Date:

September 22, 1989

Age :

101

Birthplace :

Temum, Russia

Irving Berlin, born Israel Isidore Beilin on May 11, 1888, in Tyumen, Russian Empire (now Russia), was a legendary American composer and lyricist who left an indelible mark on the world of music. His contributions to the entertainment industry spanned over seven decades, and his compositions continue to be cherished and performed to this day.

Berlin’s early life was marked by poverty and hardship. His family immigrated to the United States when he was just five years old, settling in New York City’s Lower East Side. Despite limited formal education, Berlin displayed a natural talent for music from an early age. He taught himself to play the piano and began composing songs while still a teenager.

His career took off in the early 1900s when he started writing songs for Tin Pan Alley, the center of the music publishing industry in New York City. His first major hit came in 1911 with the song “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” which became an international sensation. Throughout his career, Berlin composed over 1,500 songs, many of which became timeless classics. Some of his most famous compositions include “White Christmas,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “God Bless America,” and “There’s No Business Like Show Business.”

Berlin’s songs were not only popular with the public but also critically acclaimed. He won numerous awards and accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “White Christmas” in 1942. He also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in 1977. Berlin’s song “God Bless America” was originally written as a patriotic anthem during World War I but was not published until 1938. He composed the score for the Broadway musical “Annie Get Your Gun” in just three weeks. Berlin’s music was featured in over 18 Broadway shows and 15 Hollywood films. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970 and the National Academy of Popular Music Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971.

Irving Berlin married Ellin Mackay in 1926, and they remained together until her death in 1988. The couple had three children: Mary Ellin, Irving Jr., and Linda. Berlin was known for his philanthropic efforts and made significant contributions to various charitable organizations.

Irving Berlin passed away on September 22, 1989, at the age of 101. His legacy as a musical genius continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as one of the greatest composers of all time.