E. Y. Harburg

Date of Birth: April 8, 1896

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: March 5, 1981

Biography

Edgar Yipsel Harburg, known professionally as E. Y. “Yip” Harburg, was an American lyricist and librettist who made significant contributions to American musical theater and film. Born on April 8, 1896, in New York City, Harburg became one of the most influential lyricists of the 20th century. He is best known for his work on the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” for which he wrote the lyrics to all the songs, including the iconic “Over the Rainbow,” which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. A graduate of City College of New York, Harburg initially pursued a career in business before turning to songwriting after the stock market crash of 1929. His first major success came in 1932 with the song “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” which became an anthem of the Great Depression. Harburg’s work is characterized by his witty, socially conscious lyrics and his commitment to social justice. Throughout his career, Harburg collaborated with many top composers, including Harold Arlen, Vernon Duke, and Burton Lane. He worked on numerous Broadway shows, such as “Finian’s Rainbow” and “Bloomer Girl,” and his songs have been performed by some of the greatest artists of his time. Harburg passed away on March 5, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and lyrics that continue to inspire generations.

5 Interesting Facts about E. Y. Harburg

1. E. Y. Harburg wrote the lyrics for “Over the Rainbow,” which is often considered one of the greatest and most enduring songs in American music history.

2. He was blacklisted during the McCarthy era due to his political views and affiliations.

3. Harburg was known for his sharp wit and sense of humor, which he often infused into his lyrics.

4. He was a lifelong advocate for social justice and used his platform to address issues such as poverty, racism, and war.

5. Harburg was an atheist and often explored themes of humanism and skepticism in his work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from E. Y. Harburg

1. “Words make you think. Music makes you feel. A song makes you feel a thought.”

2. “Lives of great men all remind us, we can make our lives sublime, and, departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of time.”

3. “I am one of those people who believe that the solution to the world’s problems lies in laughter.”

4. “The world is full of wonderful things you haven’t seen yet. Don’t ever give up on the chance of seeing them.”

5. “April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom, holiday tables under the trees.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, E. Y. Harburg’s net worth was approximately $5 million.

Children

E. Y. Harburg had two children, a son named Ernie Harburg, who became a sociologist and author, and a daughter named Gloria Harburg, who pursued a career in education.