Date of Birth: December 6, 1896
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: August 17, 1983
Biography
Ira Gershwin, born Israel Gershowitz, was an American lyricist who collaborated with his younger brother, composer George Gershwin, to create some of the most memorable songs of the early 20th century. Born on December 6, 1896, in New York City, Ira was the eldest son of Morris and Rose Gershowitz, Russian-Jewish immigrants. Ira was known for his witty, sophisticated, and often poignant lyrics that complemented George’s innovative musical compositions. Together, the Gershwin brothers wrote numerous Broadway shows and Hollywood films, including “Porgy and Bess,” “Funny Face,” and “Shall We Dance.” Some of their most famous songs include “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You,” “The Man I Love,” and “They Can’t Take That Away from Me.” After George’s untimely death in 1937, Ira continued to work with other prominent composers such as Jerome Kern, Kurt Weill, and Harold Arlen. Ira’s career spanned several decades, earning him numerous accolades including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for “Of Thee I Sing” in 1932. Ira Gershwin passed away on August 17, 1983, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and lyrics that continue to captivate audiences around the world.
5 Interesting Facts about Ira Gershwin
1. Ira Gershwin won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1932 for “Of Thee I Sing,” the first musical comedy to receive the award.
2. Although he started writing lyrics in his teens, Ira’s career took off when he was in his 20s after teaming up with his brother George.
3. Ira often used the pseudonym “Arthur Francis” early in his career to avoid being seen as riding on his brother’s coattails.
4. He was known for his love of wordplay and often incorporated puns and clever rhymes into his lyrics.
5. After George’s death, Ira spent years organizing and preserving his brother’s legacy, including publishing a collection of their letters.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ira Gershwin
1. “Life is one long jubilee.”
2. “I never knew how good our songs were until I heard Ella Fitzgerald sing them.”
3. “True music must repeat the thought and inspirations of the people and the time.”
4. “Deep, deep in my heart, I’ll always be a Broadway baby.”
5. “The trouble with writing a book about yourself is that you can’t fool around. If you do, it’s a self-deception.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Ira Gershwin’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $20 million.
Children
Ira Gershwin did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Ira Gershwin Biography – Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ira-Gershwin
2. [Ira Gershwin – Songwriters Hall of Fame](https://www.songhall.org/profile/Ira_Gershwin
3. [Ira Gershwin – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0315151/
4. [Ira Gershwin – AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ira-gershwin-mn0000093177/biography
