1920's The Arts | Gershwin, George 1898-1937

SONGWRITER/COMPOSER

Brilliance.

Born Jacob Gershwine in Brooklyn, George Gershwin was the most brilliant figure among the cadre of brilliant song-writers of his time. Before his early death he had progressed from Broadway to classical forms and opera, treating the jazz idiom with increasing complexity.

Song Plugger.

A gifted pianist, he was a song plugger on Tin Pan Alley at sixteen. In 1919 he wrote his first big hit, "Swanee," followed by scores for the George White Scandals (1920-1924) that included "Stairway to Paradise," "Do it Again," and "Somebody Loves Me." Gershwin was handsome and attracted admiration. He behaved with the confidence of his genius.

George and Ira.

George Gershwin wrote only the music for his songs. After 1924 his older brother, Ira, was his lyricist for a string of successful Broadway and Hollywood productions. George's fame overshadowed Ira's reputation,...