We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Jerome Kern - Otto Harbach - Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
Did you know this timeless standard was originally written for a Broadway flop? Learn!
Jerome Kern was a prolific American composer and songwriter known for his contributions to musical theater and popular music. Here are some interesting facts about him and the song "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes":
Early Life: Jerome Kern was born on January 27, 1885, in New York City, USA. He displayed musical talent at a young age, learning to play the piano and organ.
Prolific Composer: Kern composed music for over 700 songs and contributed to more than 100 stage works during his career.
Collaboration with Otto Harbach: "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" is one of Kern's most famous compositions. It was written in collaboration with lyricist Otto Harbach for the musical "Roberta," which premiered on Broadway in 1933.
Inspiration: The song was inspired by a real-life event. Kern and Harbach were dining at a New York restaurant when the restaurant's busboy accidentally set a pile of burning leaves on fire, causing smoke to fill the dining room. Harbach reportedly remarked, "Look at that smoke getting in your eyes," and this phrase became the basis for the song's title and theme.
Commercial Success: "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" became an instant hit and is considered one of Kern's signature compositions. It has been covered by numerous artists and remains a beloved classic.
Iconic Performers: Many renowned artists have recorded versions of "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," including Nat King Cole, Dinah Washington, The Platters, and more. It has also been featured in various films and television shows.
Awards: The song received critical acclaim and won the inaugural Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1959.
Legacy: Jerome Kern's contributions to American musical theater had a lasting impact. He is often regarded as one of the pioneers of the American musical, helping to bridge the gap between operetta and modern musical theater.
Other Notable Works: In addition to "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," Kern composed other famous songs such as "Ol' Man River" from "Show Boat," "The Way You Look Tonight" from "Swing Time," and "All the Things You Are."
Honors and Awards: Throughout his career, Kern received multiple awards and honors, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "The Way You Look Tonight."
Jerome Kern's music continues to be celebrated and cherished by music lovers, and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" remains a timeless classic in the world of popular music.