Composer and screenwriter behind iconic songs and films, including "Three Little Words" and "Duck Soup," leaving a lasting mark on the music and comedy industries.
Harry Ruby, the renowned American pianist, composer, songwriter, and screenwriter, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his captivating melodies and witty lyrics. As one half of the dynamic songwriting duo, Kalmar and Ruby, he co-created some of the most beloved and enduring songs of the 20th century.
Born Harry Rubenstein on January 27, 1895, in New York City, Ruby's early ambitions lay in becoming a professional baseball player. However, fate had other plans, and he soon found himself touring the vaudeville circuit as a pianist with the Bootblack Trio and the Messenger Boys Trio. This exposure led to work as a pianist and song plugger for prominent publishing firms, including those of Gus Edwards and Harry Von Tilzer.
Ruby's early career saw him collaborate with notable songwriters Edgar Leslie, Sam Lewis, Joe Young, and George Jessel, resulting in hits like "What'll We Do Saturday Night When the Town Goes Dry" and "When Those Sweet Hawaiian Babies Roll Their Eyes." However, it was his partnership with lyricist Bert Kalmar that brought him sustained success, producing iconic songs that would become an integral part of American music heritage.
The Kalmar and Ruby partnership, which spanned nearly three decades until Kalmar's passing in 1947, yielded a treasure trove of timeless classics. Their songs, such as "Three Little Words," "Who's Sorry Now," and "I Wanna Be Loved by You," continue to enchant audiences to this day. This remarkable duo's story was immortalized in the 1950 MGM musical "Three Little Words," starring Fred Astaire as Kalmar and Red Skelton as Ruby.
Ruby's life was filled with music, but also with laughter and camaraderie. A close friend of Groucho Marx, Ruby frequently appeared on Marx's television program, "You Bet Your Life." In 1972, Marx paid tribute to Ruby during his concert at Carnegie Hall, performing one of Ruby's songs and praising his friend's immense talent.
In recognition of his significant contributions to American music, Harry Ruby was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. His legacy extends far beyond his impressive catalog of songs, as he continues to inspire new generations of musicians, composers, and music lovers alike.
Ruby was married to silent film actress Eileen Percy and passed away on February 23, 1974, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to delight and inspire audiences today.
Born in 1890
A witty and charismatic comedian and actor, famous for his quick wit, iconic mustache, and hilarious one-liners in classic films and TV shows.
Born in 1887
A member of the Marx Brothers comedy team, he's known for his witty one-liners, charming accent, and hilarious antics in classic films like "Duck Soup" and "A Night at the Opera".
Born in 1888
A silent comedian and virtuosic harpist, known for his pantomime antics and mischievous on-screen presence in the Marx Brothers' films.
Born in 1901
Member of the Marx Brothers comedy team, known for his straight man role and musical talents. He later became a successful theatrical agent, representing clients like Jack Benny and Lana Turner.
Born in 1888
A legendary composer and pianist who wrote over 1,500 songs, including iconic American standards like "God Bless America" and "White Christmas", shaping the Great American Songbook.
Born in 1898
A renowned pianist and composer who blended jazz and classical music to create iconic works like "Rhapsody in Blue" and "An American in Paris", leaving a lasting impact on American music.
Born in 1891
A legendary composer and songwriter behind timeless Broadway shows and Hollywood musicals, crafting witty, sophisticated, and romantic songs that have become jazz standards.
Born in 1895
Wrote witty, romantic, and poignant lyrics for Broadway musicals, collaborating with Richard Rodgers to create iconic shows like Oklahoma! and South Pacific. 42
