Ira Gershwin (December 6, 1896 – August 17, 1983) was an American lyricist who collaborated with his younger brother, composer George Gershwin, to create some of the most memorable songs of the 20th century.
With George he wrote more than a dozen Broadway shows, featuring songs such as "I Got Rhythm", "Embraceable You", "The Man I Love" and "Someone to Watch Over Me". He was also responsible, along with DuBose Heyward, for the libretto to George's opera Porgy and Bess.
The success the brothers had with their collaborative works has often overshadowed the creative role that Ira played. However, his mastery of songwriting continued after the early death of George. He wrote additional hit songs with composers Jerome Kern ("Long Ago (and Far Away)"), Kurt Weill and Harold Arlen.
His critically acclaimed book Lyrics on Several Occasions of 1959, an amalgam of autobiography and annotated anthology, is an important source for studying the art of the lyricist in the golden age of American popular song.
Read more about Ira Gershwin: Biography, Awards and Honors, Legacy, Personal Life, Notable Songs
Famous quotes by ira gershwin:
“You say eether and I say eyether.”
—Ira Gershwin (1896–1983)
“I’m bidin’ my time,
‘Cause that’s the kinda guy I’m.”
—Ira Gershwin (1896–1983)
“They all laughed at Christopher Columbus
When he said the world was round.”
—Ira Gershwin (1896–1983)
“The way you wear your hat
The way you sip your tea.”
—Ira Gershwin (1896–1983)
“I am just a little girl who’s looking for a little boy who’s looking for a girl to love.”
—Ira Gershwin (1896–1983)