Jerome Kern (1885-1945) was an American composer who made significant contributions to the world of musical theater and popular music. Here are some interesting facts about him:
Prolific Composer: Jerome Kern composed over 700 songs during his career, including numerous Broadway hits and popular tunes. His work played a crucial role in shaping the American musical landscape.
Early Life and Education: Kern was born in New York City on January 27, 1885. He studied music in his early years, both in the United States and in Germany, where he received formal training in composition.
Collaboration with P.G. Wodehouse: Kern collaborated with the famous English lyricist and humorist P.G. Wodehouse on several Broadway musicals in the early 20th century, including "Oh, Boy!" (1917) and "Leave It to Jane" (1917).
Introduction of Show Tunes: Kern is often credited with helping to introduce the concept of integrated musicals, where songs and dances are woven into the storyline, rather than being standalone performances.
Oscar Winner: He won two Academy Awards for Best Original Song: "The Way You Look Tonight" from the film "Swing Time" (1936) and "The Last Time I Saw Paris" from the film "Lady Be Good" (1941).
Collaboration with Oscar Hammerstein II: Kern's most famous collaboration was with lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. Together, they created some of the most iconic and enduring musicals in Broadway history, including "Show Boat" (1927) and "The Sound of Music" (1959).
"Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man": The song "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man" is one of Kern's most beloved compositions. It was written for the musical "Show Boat" and has been recorded by numerous artists. The song has a poignant and soulful quality, expressing the deep emotions of the character Julie.
Legacy: Kern's influence on American musical theater is immeasurable. His innovative approach to integrating music into the narrative, along with his memorable melodies, has left a lasting impact on the genre.
Honors and Recognitions: Kern was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985, and in 2015, he was honored on a U.S. postage stamp.
Jerome Kern's contributions to the world of music continue to be celebrated, and his songs remain an integral part of the American musical canon.